Feeling Stoked: Harry Takes on the St Barnabas Fire Walk

24-year-old Harry Page from Grantham is taking on a fiery challenge this year supporting St Barnabas: Walking over red-hot embers in memory of his grandparents!

Taking place on Saturday 7th, October at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln, the charity’s Fire Walk is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you feeling de-lighted.

Harry is taking part in the challenge in memory of his grandparents, Dennis and Rosemary, who received care from St Barnabas Hospice.

Both of Harry’s grandparents were diagnosed with lung cancer, which was a real shock to Harry and his family. When Dennis was diagnosed, he went into the Hospice for care before coming home, where he continued to receive care from St Barnabas nurses.

Harry said: “Grandad was generous, kind and witty, and he always had a book in his hand that he would throw at you to read once he had finished it! Gran was the point of call for the whole family, she excelled in cooking, and there was never a bad dish. I used to go for dinner as a child, and we would watch Deal or No Deal together.

“Grandad had defied cancer before and was always a fighter, but sadly he couldn’t fight this one. The care he received from St Barnabas was incredible, both in the hospice and at home.

“After he died in 2017, we took part in the St Barnabas Bubble Rush so we could have fun together as a family and raise money. It was myself, my father, sister, brother-in-law, nephews and Gran running through bubbles on a beautiful sunny day. I believe it was really heart-warming for my Gran to be able to do something in Dennis’ memory.”

After Rosemary’s diagnosis, she received courses of chemotherapy for several months before requesting support from St Barnabas.

“When Gran was diagnosed, it was so difficult; she was almost like the Queen of the family. After Grandpops died, Gran was my best friend. We went shopping, out for food, always up to no good!

“Both of them always described St Barnabas as the best place for care and support, and the care we have seen first-hand really proves that. Both wanted donations at their funeral to give to St Barnabas as a final thank-you.”

Now, Harry is remembering them by taking on the red-hot Fire Walk challenge this autumn. He has set up a JustGiving page and hopes to raise at least £200, which he is likely to smash as he’s already raised £180, with over half a year to go.

Harry said: “I’m feeling nervous but eager to try something new, and I want to raise as much money and awareness as possible for a charity so close to my heart.

“On the day, I’ll receive training from the UK Firewalking Company, so I’ll know how to beat the heat. It’s perfectly safe; in all the years the company has done it, there’s only been so much as a blister, and as long as I follow the guidance, I’ll be fine.

“It’s such a crazy challenge, and I can’t wait. I know Dennis and Rose would be proud of me and laughing all the way! If you are considering signing up, you absolutely should. St Barnabas deserves all the support they can get, and you’ll have an incredible experience.”