Audrey’s bid to raise cash by binning the booze

Audrey’s bid to raise cash by binning the booze

A kind-hearted supporter of Saint Catherine’s is taking on sober November to raise funds in memory of her beloved husband.

Audrey Dent, 64, of Aislaby, near Whitby, lost her husband John in December last year and has praised the care he received from Saint Catherine’s.

She said: “I can’t put it into words, but they are just amazing people. I wanted to do something for everyone who was there for John and who has been there for me.”

It was Audrey’s daughter Lizzie who suggested that she try ‘sober November’. At first Audrey thought she couldn’t do it, but decided to go for it with the support of her friends and family.

She added: “John would fall off his chair if he knew I was doing this challenge, but sometimes you have to reach out of your comfort zone to be able to give to others and that’s exactly what I am doing.”

Audrey, who works at the Magpie Café in Whitby, said some days have been particularly hard, especially November 5 which would have been John’s birthday.

But she has stuck to the challenge and not had a drink, saying she didn’t want to let anyone down.

Audrey added: “I feel great and I can’t see myself going back to my old ways after this. I have more energy and I’ve lost nearly a stone in weight. I feel like John would be so proud of me.

“It makes me want to do more fundraising – I don’t want it to stop here. The encouragement has been amazing and I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has donated so far.”

Audrey set up a Just Giving page and has smashed her initial target of £230, with donations still coming in.

To make a donation, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/audreys-dry-challenge

If you would like to raise funds by taking on a challenge for Saint Catherine’s, email fundraising@saintcatherines.org.uk or call (01723) 378406.

You can also find fundraising ideas and inspiration at www.saintcatherines.org.uk/how-you-can-help-us/fundraise-for-us/