Fundraisers aged 12 to 82 brave the drop for Ipswich Hospital

Why it matters: The annual Extreme Abseil, sponsored by Eastern Lift Services, saw more than 160 participants take on the 135ft descent down the hospital's iconic tower over two days in support of Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, with many raising funds specifically for the Time Garden Appeal.

The details: The Time Garden Appeal aims to transform an unused courtyard at Ipswich Hospital into a peaceful and accessible space for patients receiving end-of-life care and their loved ones.

Among those taking part were members of the Seeds of Hope group, who completed the challenge in memory of their friend Dave Eaton from Debenham.

The abseil Em turned down — and the one they will not

Last year, Em Nicholls had the chance to abseil down Ipswich Hospital alongside their dad. They turned it down. Months after Matt completed the challenge, he died suddenly — and now Em is preparing to step over the edge in his memory.

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A student from Martlesham will abseil down Ipswich Hospital to honour the grandad she lost two years ago, using her experience to help other families this Dying Matters Awareness Week.

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What they're saying: Sarah Corner from the Seeds of Hope support group said: "We wanted to support the Time Garden Appeal in memory of Dave, who sadly passed away. Dave was a much-loved member of our community, and taking part in the Extreme Abseil felt like a fitting way to honour him while raising money for a cause that means so much.

"This is just the start for us. We have lots more fundraising planned throughout the year, and we're proud to be supporting a project that will leave a lasting legacy for patients and their loved ones."

Gavin Lamb, corporate and events fundraising manager at Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, said: "What an incredible weekend. Every person who stepped over the edge of the tower showed tremendous courage and determination, and the amount raised is simply phenomenal.

"The money raised will make a real difference to patients and families across our hospitals. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, donated, volunteered or supported the event in any way."

The bottom line: With participants ranging from 12 to 82 braving the height and the elements, this year's Extreme Abseil was a testament to the community spirit that makes events like this so powerful — and the funds raised will help create a lasting legacy for patients and families at Ipswich Hospital.

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