FROM their early years through to adulthood, friends Hannah Soutar and Dani Moreton have supported each other through grief and adversity.
The inseparable pair will stick together as they tackle a gruelling five-day trek across the Sahara desert in a bid to raise £4,000 for Prospect Hospice, the charity which cared for their father and mother respectively through a terminal illness.
Hannah’s father Trevor died aged 50 after a drawn-out battle with bowel cancer.
He and his family became regular visitors to Prospect and Trevor’s strength and ability to pull through at the 11th hour became a legend among nurses.
“My dad was admitted to Prospect Hospice on numerous occasions,” said the 25-year-old from Stratton. “He was so well known that the nurses used to say, ‘They’ve done a Trevor' when somebody bounced back after being given a short time to live.
“My dad passed away on the March 17, 2002. The support that Prospect Hospice provided to my family, my dad and I was invaluable and I don’t think there is anything I could say or do that can express my thanks and gratitude.”
Dani lost her mother Marie to primary lymphoma of the brain in June last year. She also forged a close bond with Prospect staff, who were ever present for her family.
“Sadly after a courageous battle, my mum lost her fight against the disease at the age of 58, on June 10, 2013,” said the 27-year old Capita employee from the town centre. “I am eternally grateful for the support that they gave me and feel that by trekking across the Sahara, I can demonstrate my appreciation and thanks for all that they have done for me and my mum.”
The pair face a 70-mile trek in 38-degree heat and camping out in the desert in sub-zero temperatures at night.
“It will be hard physically but we have been training at the gym,” said Hannah. “The biggest challenge will be the emotional side of things. But I think it’s going to be great fun and we are very excited.”
Hannah and Dani must raise £4,000 by July 19. To sponsor them or donate raffle prizes visit www.justgiving.com/whosthatcomingoverthedune. Alternatively text DHST50 with the amount you wish to donate to 70070.
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