Family and friends of a much-loved Whitehaven dad have raised over £6,000 in his memory – and the fundraising continues this weekend to celebrate his birthday.
Keith Hayes – husband to Clare and father to Lucy and Rhys, aged nine and five – lost his battle against cancer in January, aged 41.
Since Keith’s death, his family and friends have organised a series of events and challenges to raise money for two organisations that supported Keith and his family; Macmillan Cancer Support and Hospice at Home West Cumbria.
Clare said: “Keith was a kind and loving dad, husband, son, brother and a great friend to so many people, and we have been touched by the outpouring of love there has been since we all lost him.
“From the time Keith was diagnosed with cancer three years ago, he battled with such courage, dignity and great humour, and lived life to the fullest in every way he could.
“We miss him every day, and are comforted by the amazing levels of support we have had for the fundraising campaign and I’d like to thank everyone who has taken part and donated.”
On Saturday, July 16 – when Keith would have turned 42 – Cleator Moor Marathon Man Gary McKee is dedicating his run to the dad-of-two, and will be joined by a number of Keith’s friends en route.
The fundraising campaign has also involved Clare, Lucy and Rhys taking on a challenge each month, including planking each day in March, a swimathon alongside close friends the Clarke family in May, and the Macmillan Lake District Mighty Hike half-marathon walk at Ullswater on Father’s Day.
Clare added: “The support we received from Macmillan Cancer Support and Hospice at Home West Cumbria was incredible; you don’t realise the amazing work they do until you find yourself in that position.
“We can never thank them enough, but hope that by continuing to raise money and awareness, it goes some way to repaying their kindness.”
Keith – son of Chris and Clive Hayes – grew up in Cleator Moor before moving to Whitehaven, and latterly Hillcrest.
A respected chartered building durveyor and architectural technologist, his career took him to a range of local firms including Day Cummins, Atkins, Johnson & Wright, Sellafield and Aecom. He also spent a period seconded to the NDA.
He was also a governor at Jericho School and had become a magistrate shortly before he died.
To support the fundraising campaign, donations can be made to either or both charities here.
