As the new year begins, many people take on a new challenge to improve their wellbeing or give something back. For Grace, a personal challenge became a way to honour her nan’s memory and say thank you to the NHS staff who cared for her family during an incredibly difficult time.
Two years ago, Grace’s nan was admitted to Critical Care at the Northern General Hospital following a serious fall. Her condition was so severe that the family feared they were saying goodbye. However, after six months in hospital she made an unexpected and remarkable recovery, returning home and even spending time in her garden again.
Sadly, when she became suddenly unwell again, she was readmitted to Critical Care. This time, she did not recover, and Grace’s family made the difficult decision to let her go. Grace’s nan passed away in October last year.
“The staff in Critical Care were amazing with my nan and with all of our family,” Grace says. “I knew I wanted to do something to give back and say thank you.”
A keen runner, Grace decided to set herself a fundraising challenge in her nan’s memory. She committed to running 5km every day throughout November to raise funds for Sheffield Hospitals Charity in support of Critical Care.
What started as an ‘easy’ half-hour-a-day challenge soon became a real test of endurance. Despite the physical demands, Grace says the experience was hugely rewarding. Friends, cousins and her brother joined her for runs, while supporters followed her progress through regular fundraising updates.
“On the harder days when I didn’t feel like running, I thought about my nan and about why I was doing it,” Grace explains. “That really kept me going, especially on the dark cold mornings!”
The challenge not only helped Grace raise vital funds but also provided focus and comfort during a period of grief.
“This has been the hardest challenge I’ve done,” Grace says, “but it was absolutely worth it. My nan always put others first and I know she would have been proud.”
Grace’s story is a powerful example of how personal challenges can make a meaningful difference. As we start the new year, Sheffield Hospitals Charity is proud and grateful for the support of fundraisers like Grace, whose determination helps us to enhance care across our NHS.
For your New Year, New Challenge, click here to start your fundraising journey.
Published: Friday 9th of January 2026