International Women’s Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women across our communities.
This year, we’d like to highlight an inspirational fundraiser for Herriot Hospice Homecare – the indomitable Joyce Richardson who sadly died in October last year aged 102.
Former Land Army veteran Joyce inspired thousands across the country with a spirited challenge to mark her centenary year in June 2020.
Having developed sepsis and virtually losing the use of her legs, Joyce struggled to stand for any length of time. But her determination to raise funds for the charity who cared for her late son led Joyce to take on 100 ‘stand ups’ for her 100th birthday.
During the challenge, Joyce said: “It may not seem much to most people but, believe you me, hauling myself up out of the chair is a huge struggle every time.”
News of her courageous efforts spread across the country, capturing the hearts of those who had never met Joyce – but were moved and inspired by her resolve; donations and comments poured in, praising the great-grandmother as an ‘incredible role model’, ‘a charitable and resilient woman’ and ‘an inspiration to us all’.
Joyce raised a remarkable £30,000 for Herriot Hospice Homecare, a charity she and her family had long supported.
All at Herriot fondly remember Joyce’s extraordinary spirit, and we have nominated Joyce posthumously for local fundraisier of the year, in this year’s Yorkshire Choice awards, as a tribute and thanks for her truly inspirational support.
You can vote for Joyce here
https://yorkshirechoice.wufoo.com/forms/vote-for-your-yorkshire-choice-winner-2023/
Scroll down to “Local Fundraiser of the Year” and select Joyce Richardson from the drop down menu.