A group of fundraisers are dusting off their capes and Lycra for a challenge of superhero proportions in memory of a much-loved relative.
Caroline Hope, along with her brother Richard, family and friends, will take on the Superhero Challenge on Saturday 17 June to raise hundreds of pounds for St Richard’s Hospice.
Together the team of 11 will navigate 10 inflatable obstacles, flurries of foam, tunnels, UV bubble pods and slip down the Big Bertha Slide to complete the course at the University of Worcester Lakeside Campus, in Holt, near Worcester.
They are raising money in memory of Caroline’s dad, retired policeman Terry Roscoe. Terry, from Worcester, died of oesophageal cancer in January aged 60 after being cared for by St Richard’s in his own home.
The 5k race will take place on what would have been Terry’s wedding anniversary with wife Christine – and falls the day before Father’s Day, making it a poignant tribute for his 37-year-old daughter and her family.
Caroline with her dad Terry
Caroline, who will transform into Batman for the challenge, said: “My dad was a loving husband, father and grandad – he was a great presence and there was always a conversation to be had about something or other.
“After diagnosis in February 2016 with cancer of the oesophagus he underwent six months of gruelling treatment, but to no avail.
“Not once, throughout his treatment did he moan or complain – he was so brave and fought until the very end.
“Gail and the team at St Richard’s Hospice were amazing – the job they continue to do and the support they provided to not only my dad but the rest of us as a family was invaluable.
“They were very patient with all our questions, varying demands and stages of emotion. They are so supportive through such horrific times. They become trusted as if part of the family and whatever we can do to raise funds isn’t enough for what they have done for us – thank you.”
Running alongside Caroline will be her husband, Paul, who is dressing as Spiderman, daughter Lilah and stepdaughter Lily, who are both eight-years-old and going as Super Girl, stepson Fin, aged seven, who will dress as The Hulk, step-brother Richard Senter, his wife Karen Phillips, who is going as Harley Quinn, Karen’s brother Derren Phillips, friends Sarah Cave and Gary Jones, and their nine-year-old son Harry.
“I’m sure not much running will be done with the fun obstacles but it’s just a really nice way to get together with friends and family to remember my dad whilst remembering what a hero he was to all of us – in his own way!” added Caroline.
To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Richard-Senter or www.justgiving.com/fundraising/CarolineHope2017
Rachel Jones, fundraising manager at St Richard’s, said: “We’re so excited about the Superhero Challenge, we’ve never done an event like this before and we can’t wait to see everyone taking on the 10 giant inflatables and foam galore.
“We urge people to get involved and take on the challenge- it’s not a race, you can walk or jog.
“There will be lots of extra activities taking part on the day too like the BBQ, bouncy castle, bungee run and gladiator dual, so it will be a great day out.”
Participants can bring along a photo of their ‘real life hero’ to share on the ‘Superhero Gallery’ display during the day.
Entrants can still sign up to take part in the Superhero Challenge. Registration will be open online until midnight on Thursday 15 June. Participants can also register on the day, but are advised to call St Richard’s before Saturday 17 June to check which timeslots are available.
Places are limited per time slot – which are every 15 minutes between 10am and 3pm – with a minimum height restriction of 123cm. Anyone 16 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Those with medical conditions or skin allergies are advised not to take part in the event.
To register go to www.strichards.org.uk/superherochallenge. For further information, please call 01905 763 963.
The event is being sponsored by A44 Tyre Shop.
Participants are asked to pledge to raise sponsorship of £50 or more to help St Richard’s continue to offer free care to patients and their loved ones.