As it’s the start of National Transplant Week and only 6 more sleeps until TRIday, I thought I’d catch up with a few people that have been affected by organ donation and the Royal Brompton & Harefield hospitals to show you why I’m fundraising for this wonderful hospital & charity by swim/bike/running this triathlon.
First up, is Abby Thackray, the sister of Emily, in whose memory I’m doing this triathlon.
Abby, What does Harefield mean to you?
Harefield means a great many things to me. Firstly, it means safety and reassurance. However bleak and uncertain things seemed, Harefield was always there trying everything possible. I always felt safe knowing Em was in the care of Harefield because it anything could be done, they’d do it.
Secondly it means a future, Harefield gave me 8 years with my sister that I didn’t think I would get. Years in which I watched her get married, forge a successful career and become a Mummy, which was a dream she never thought would come true. Thanks to Harefield (and Ems donor) I had 8 extra years of her wisdom, guidance and love, and of the sibling moments most people take for granted, going shopping without a wheelchair or oxygen, cuddling up on the sofa watching films, going on road trips and holidays abroad to favourite childhood destinations. We fitted so much into those years after Ems transplant and they have given me countless happy memories to cherish.
If you could sum up Harefield in one word what would it be?
Hope. However bleak things seemed, however close we were to losing Em, Harefield were always there fighting to save her life and doing everything possible. Right up to the end they gave me hope and I will always be grateful for that.
Why is it important to you to raise money and awareness for Harefield?
Because there are so many families out there going through the difficult journey of transplant like we did and they desperately need a place like Harefield to give them hope and give them the peace of mind that whatever happens, their loved one is in the best hands. I have never known more professional, dedicated and caring team. They gave Em so much care and support over the years and saved her life countless times but they also helped us as a family because I always trusted they would do everything within the realms of possibility, and they always did.
Thanks Abby xxx
Sisters