The event saw the team take on muddy obstacles, share plenty of laughter and encourage one another every step of the way. While everyone crossed the finish line covered in mud, the day was about much more than the challenge itself. It was an opportunity to remember those affected by cancer, reflect on cherished memories and make a difference for future generations.
For many of the carers, Race for Life holds deep personal meaning. Nikki has taken part every year since losing her grandad to cancer 10 years ago.
She said: "Race for Life has always been a way I remember my grandad. Taking part always makes me feel close to him and gives the day an emotional feeling as I cross the finish line."
This year's event was especially poignant for the Bethany House team, who had recently lost their much-loved Registered Care Manager, Beth Kneale. Throughout the day, colleagues remembered her, sharing stories and reflecting on the positive impact she had on the home and everyone who knew her.
The race also gave staff the chance to remember others who had touched their lives. The team took part as #TeamMick in memory of Mick, a much-loved member of the Bethany House family, while Susan completed the event in honour of a gentleman she had cared for during the final weeks of his life. A respected vicar, he regularly visited Bethany House to lead Sunday services for 'family members' (those who live with us) before sadly passing away.
Despite the emotional moments, the day was filled with encouragement and togetherness. Sophie said: "I absolutely love this run. The atmosphere was amazing. We stuck together and supported each other all the way. It meant the world to me to do it with the best girls ever. They are like my family."
For Lauren, the event became a special family occasion after recently losing her dad to cancer. Watching her nine-year-old son complete the children's race in memory of his grandad made the day even more meaningful.
Everyone at Pilgrims' Friend Society is incredibly proud of their achievement and the community spirit they showed throughout the day.
Bethany House is a purpose-built 26-bed residential care home just outside Preston, Lancashire.
We offer residential care for older people and can provide respite care to those who need it and we are able to offer care at the end of life.
At Bethany House we have an active social life in which residents can take part or follow their own pursuits. Planned together with residents and our dedicated volunteers, a programme of in-house and external activities, led by the activity coordinator, takes place every month.
Our activities include singing, games, armchair exercises, baking, gardening, craft activities, pampering and lots more. Various activities take place in the lounge, and we can take the activity to a person’s room as needed.
Bible study groups meet regularly, and we have morning devotions in the lounge, led by staff members, as well as Sunday devotions led by our pastoral worker or local church leaders and volunteers. We also provide support for personal devotion and prayer. We organise trips out for those who are able, as well as visits from schools, churches and other local groups, which helps to keep those who live with us in touch with their local community.
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