Birmingham man cycles in memory of wife cared for by hospice
A Birmingham man is taking on a 100km cycling challenge today in memory of his wife, who was cared for by Birmingham Hospice.
Mark Beesley is riding in the charity’s annual Ride the Reservoir event, raising money for the service he says made it possible for his wife Stephanie to spend her final days at home.
“She was diagnosed with stage four cancer… and her wish was to see out her remaining days at home,” he said. “Without Birmingham Hospice support, that wouldn’t have been possible.”
Mark says the hospice organised an end-of-life care plan, including regular nurse visits and equipment, allowing him to take time off work and care for her himself.
“That wouldn’t have been possible without the help of Birmingham Hospice,” he added.
Stephanie died in October 2022, and Mark says the charity continued to support him afterwards.
“They also offered bereavement support and counselling services… that really helped me navigate my grief and get me to where I am today.”
Since losing his wife, Mark has taken up cycling to help his mental health, describing it as “really healing”.
“It’s helped improve my fitness and my mental wellbeing… being out in the open air and cycling through the countryside on a nice day.”
He admits the 100km Ride the Reservoir will be a challenge, particularly with its hills, but says he’s been training most weekends.
Mark is now encouraging others to support the hospice.
“It’s an invaluable service… you don’t know it’s there until you need it,” he said. “I never in my wildest dreams thought I’d need their support, but they were there when I needed them.”
He added: “Everyone should value that service and donate what they can, because you never know when you may need them.”