The Personal Stories Behind an Incredible £60,000

Kevin Flory took on the 135ft challenge in support of the Neonatal Unit after seeing first-hand the difference the team can make. 

Kevin’s grandson was born at just 30 weeks weighing only 3lb 10oz. 

He said: “If it wasn’t for Ipswich Hospital, he wouldn’t be with us today.” 

As a Steriliser Engineer working within the hospital’s decontamination division, Kevin said taking part felt like a chance to give something back to the hospital and staff who cared for his family during such a difficult time. 

After 14 years working as a nurse on Ipswich Hospital’s Neonatal Unit, Ali Olney decided to face her fears to raise funds for the babies and families she supports every day. 

Joined by colleagues, Sharon Ward and Jeannine Jones and Toby Miller (12 years-old), who explained his mum works in the unit and wanted to help out. The team hopes the money raised will help fund events and initiatives throughout the year that support families during their neonatal journey. 

Having witnessed the incredible strength of premature and poorly babies, as well as the resilience of their families, they wanted to help provide extra support during what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives. 

Karen McLaughlin and Sandra Gedney who work on the Woolverstone Centre, took part to raise funds that will directly benefit patients undergoing cancer treatment. 

They know how important charity funding can be in helping patients access practical items that make treatment easier, including PICC line sleeves, specialist mouth care products and other essentials that can ease financial pressures during an already emotional time. 

Karen said: "Supporting patients in this way can make a real difference to their comfort and wellbeing while they focus on their treatment and recovery." 

For Kelly Mayhew, the abseil was an opportunity to give back to the Bereavement Team who supported her family through heartbreak. 

Kelly gave birth to twins earlier this year. During her pregnancy, she and her family received the devastating news that their son, Max, had died at 23 weeks. 

Throughout the remainder of her pregnancy, the bereavement team provided compassionate support and guidance. 

Kelly took on the challenge to help ensure other families experiencing baby loss receive the same care and support when they need it most. 

Sarah Hughes, who works at Ipswich Hospital, decided to take part after an incredibly challenging year for her family. 

Following years of investigations, Sarah’s daughter Kai was diagnosed with Pompe disease, a rare genetic condition, in May 2025. Further genetic testing later revealed that Sarah’s youngest son, Jacob, also has the condition and is currently undergoing further assessment. 

Sarah wanted to use the abseil to raise awareness of Pompe disease while giving back to the healthcare teams who helped her family find answers. 

She said: “This abseil is my way of turning our journey into something positive, raising awareness, giving back and supporting others affected by rare genetic conditions.” 

For Angela Joy, stepping over the edge of the tower represented far more than a fundraising challenge. 

Having recently beaten cancer, Angela admitted she was extremely nervous about taking part. 

Despite her fears, she completed the abseil with determination and courage, inspiring supporters watching from below and proving that sometimes the biggest achievements come from taking that first brave step.