A Lincoln daycare provider has urged people to take part in St Barnabas Hospice’s annual fundraiser ‘Rudy’s Run’ in memory of a much-missed mum, Samantha Gibbins.
Owners of Puddleducks Day Care, Caroline and Simon Baker, are asking as many people as possible to sign up for the Hospice’s child-friendly Christmas-themed fundraiser Rudy’s Run, where you can raise vital funds for the charity. The run is not a race, rather a chance for families and schools to dance, prance or run around and join in with some Christmas-themed crafts.
Caroline said: “Last year, we took part in Rudy’s Run after one of our children’s parents at the daycare was suddenly diagnosed with cancer. Everyone will agree that the pandemic was a very challenging year; however, cancer made it even tougher.
“Sadly, Sam passed away in July of this year. Sam was an amazing, strong lady, and her passing was devastating for everyone at Puddleducks. Sam never wanted self-pity, and her motto was to live every day like it’s your last. After speaking to Sam’s husband and children, we have decided to take on Rudy’s Run once again this year in memory of Sam. We are hoping to raise lots of money for St Barnabas Hospice along the way.”
Puddleducks managed to raise more than £2,000 last year by having the children take part in various runs, walks, dances and prancing.
Caroline added: “As well as the exercise, we also ran various competitions like colouring, word searches and quizzes. Every child had the opportunity to make reindeer food, reindeer biscuits and reindeer treats. St Barnabas provided each duckling with a red nose and antlers, whilst my husband made Rudy run medals for all of the children.
“Every under 5-year-old did a mile, with some doing even longer. The older ducklings even ran 5km after school!”
Sam’s daughter Jess added: “Earlier this year, heaven gained a beautiful angel – my mum and Oscar’s grandma – Samantha Gibbins. Throughout her fight, she was surrounded by the most amazing people who supported and fought with her.
“Puddleducks accepted Oscar as one of their little ducklings, as they did previously with Mum’s youngest daughter, Abi. Puddleducks have shown such compassion and support by raising money and completing charity events for St Barnabas.
“Rudy’s Run was the first event last Christmas, which was a sponsored run with all the children. The money raised was overwhelming and made my mum extremely proud. It helped her to remain positive and strong throughout her cancer journey. As a family, we are eternally proud and grateful for the work Puddleducks have done and continue to do. Please sign up for Rudy’s Run; let’s raise as much as possible for St Barnabas!”
Schools, nurseries or groups are able to sign up free of charge by visiting www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/rudysrun
If you would like to access free Bereavement support services, please contact St Barnabas’s self-referral line on 0300 303 1897 or read more on the service here: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/services/wellbeing-support/bereavementhelpline/
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