The Beeches Care Centre Manager Pat Sherwood conquered a 140ft abseil drop dressed as Santa on Sunday 16th December to raise money for The Stroke Association.

The Santa Slide Abseil challenge took place in Manchester’s Velodrome, organised by The Stroke Association all who participated were given a Santa suit to ensure the day was full of festive spirit and laughter.

Statistics from the Stroke Association show 120,000 people every year in the UK suffer their first stroke and stroke is also the UK’s third biggest killer. The charity event was set up to support the Association in their work towards a world with fewer strokes and to ensure those affected by stroke are given the help and support they require.

Pat was heard about the challenge when she was contacted at The Beeches Care Centre in Dukinfield by one of the event organisers and decided the day would be fun and for a good cause, she comments: ‘I wasn’t sure at first, 140ft is a long way down and believe me it looks even further when you get up there!, But I am always game for a laugh and a good challenge. The worst bit was getting up and across to the edge of the abseil wall, I just kept thinking ‘don’t look down’, but my partner and children were there supporting me so I just went for it. I would like to say a thank you to my family, friends and colleagues at Meridian Healthcare for sponsoring and supporting me.’

Although Pat thoroughly enjoyed the day and says that she would do it again for now she vows to keep her feet firmly on the ground!

Ends.
• Photograph shows: Pat sporting her santa suit prior to her abseil.

Notes:
• Meridian Healthcare own 25 Care Centres throughout the North of England.

• Website: www.meridiancare.co.uk

• For further information on The Beeches call Pat on 0161 338 4922

• For further information on The Stroke Association visit their website www.stroke.org.uk

For further information please contact: Tessa Matthews, Meridian Healthcare, 0161 368 9099 tmatthews@meridiancare.co.uk