Jan (Janet) Mick took on the challenge following the loss of her dad, Harry, earlier this month, turning her grief into a positive tribute while supporting the team who care for patients and their families at the hospital.
After battling illness and experiencing a major health scare in 2006, Jan took up running at the age of 40. She went on to complete the Brighton Marathon and numerous organised runs before swapping running for hiking around eight years ago.
Her adventures have since included a three-day trek in the Alps, walking part of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, completing the Windsor 50K and, most recently, taking part in the Norfolk 24 walking challenges. Along the way, Jan has supported a variety of good causes including Cats Protection, a hedgehog charity, Norfolk Air Ambulance, Cancer Research and the British Heart Foundation.
For her latest challenge, Jan climbed Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, to raise money for the Peddars Way End-of-Life Unit at The QEH in memory of Harry.
The challenge held special significance for Jan and her husband Andy, who recently retired and moved from Hertfordshire to West Norfolk to begin a new chapter by the coast. Following the loss of her dad, Harry, Jan channelled her grief into a challenge that celebrated his memory and reflected his lifelong love of staying active.
Completing the ascent and descent in an impressive nine hours and 20 minutes, Jan faced testing conditions throughout the challenge. As she climbed higher, temperatures and visibility dropped, with strong winds and rain making the conditions increasingly difficult. At the summit, wind chill temperatures fell to around -4°C, but Jan’s determination helped her reach the top and complete the challenge in her dad’s memory. Reflecting on the challenge, Jan said: “Dad was always such an active man and never liked to sit still, so taking on Ben Nevis felt like a fitting way to remember him. Losing him so soon after starting our new life in West Norfolk has been incredibly difficult, but I wanted to do something positive in his memory.
“I’ve always loved a challenge and have been lucky enough to raise money for some fantastic charities over the years. This one felt especially personal, and I’m incredibly proud to have completed it while supporting the Peddars Way End-of-Life Unit at The QEH in Dad’s memory. He was with me every step of the way.”
Emma Clark, Consultant Nurse in Palliative Medicine & Clinical Lead for the Peddars Way Unit, shared: “We are incredibly grateful to Jan for choosing to support Peddars Way through such a meaningful challenge. Climbing Ben Nevis is a fantastic achievement, and to have done so in memory of her dad makes it all the more special.
“Jan’s determination and generosity are truly inspiring, and we would like to congratulate her on completing the challenge. We’d also like to thank everyone who has supported her fundraising. Every donation helps us make a positive difference to our patients and their families.”
Through her achievement, Jan hopes to not only raise vital funds for the hospital’s Peddars Way Unit, but also celebrate the life of her dad and inspire others to support causes close to their hearts.
Jan’s efforts have already raised more than £540, smashing her original £200 fundraising target. If you would like support Jan and donate to her JustGiving page, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/j-mick-2
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Notes to editors;
To download the full media release pack, please click here.
Photos: Janet Mick is in the pink coat and Anna Bamford (Jan’s sister-in-law) is in the black coat.
If you would like to raise funds for good causes or help an appeal at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, please take a look at our website www.qehklcharity.co.uk. Alternatively, please email our Charity team at Charity@qehkl.nhs.uk or call 01553 613309.
For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216.
For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
About QEHKL Charity: QEHKL Charity plays a vital role in supporting The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn. The charity raises funds for medical equipment, research, services, and facilities that directly benefit patients and their families. With its support, QEHKL can provide high-quality care, expand services, and improve the hospital experience for those in need.
