The mother of a Weston Hospicecare patient, who married her financé just before she died, is taking part in the Midnight Beach Walk in memory of her daughter.
Claire Rutter was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 31 and she died at the hospice in Uphill on May 19.
Before her death, Claire was able to have her dream wedding to Robe Cope, thanks to hospice staff and generous donations from family, friends, businesses and members of the community.
More: ‘Fairytale’ wedding for couple after terminal cancer diagnosis.
Claire’s mum, Katrina, is now planning to take part in the 5km fundraiser on September 7.
Katrina’s sister, her daughters and her sister-in-law are also taking part to raise awareness and to support the hospice,
She said: “Claire passed away on May 19 leaving three beautiful girls age 14, three and 20-months-old.
“I was able to stay with Claire the whole time she was at the hospice which was seven weeks.
“The nurses allowed me to care for my daughter but I knew all I had to do was ask and they would be there if I needed help.”
Katrina says if she is ever able to accept the loss of her daughter, the hospice’s support will be key.
More: Fundraisers can sign up to the Midnight Beach Walk for Weston Hospicecare.
She said: “Dr Helen (Horgan) and all the staff were amazing, the care and support that they gave to Claire was outstanding.
“Myself and my family also received the same outstanding care and support. After a couple of days of being in the hospice Claire said she felt ‘safe’ and I could see that she was more relaxed.
“I received exceptional support from Dr Helen, the nurses and the support team they were always there for all of us.
“Claire had her dream wedding at Batch Country House while staying at the hospice and all the staff helped to support and ensure all was running smoothly for her.
“The ongoing support has been amazing. I am at present having support from the hospice which is helping, I am not sure if I will come to terms with losing Claire but with the support from the hospice hopefully one day I will.”
“Any women thinking of registering for the Midnight Beach Walk please do it now. Weston Hospicecare needs our help – they do an amazing job caring for our loved ones.”
To register for the walk, visit www.register.primoevents.com/ps/event/midnightbeachwalk2018
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