Hospital help inspires trek

Diane Fenton, along with her daughter Kirsty and work colleagues, walked more than two miles from Dewsbury to Batley dressed as babies to gather funds for Eckersley House, which provides accommodation for families with sick children at Leeds General Infirmary.

Diane and Kirsty spent two weeks their after Diane’s granddaughter Gracie was admitted to LGI suffering from a double aortic arch, a condition which was affecting her breathing.

The walk raised £800 for the Sick Children’s Trust, which runs eight houses in the UK, including Eckersley.

Diane, of Moorside Crescent, said “Eckersley House provided exactly what Kirsty and I needed. It was a safe place to stay with great facilities and so many home comforts that it really did become home for us for two weeks. The house staff were so caring, and we were so grateful that Kirsty and I felt we really wanted to give something back.”

Jane McHale, House Manager of Eckersley House said “It is really heartwarming to see families fundraise for us that have previously stayed in the house. The amount Diane and her friends have raised will make such a difference.”