21 Mar 2025 Community

Fran Zak Takes on Three Peaks Challenge to Support The Kirkwood

A devoted team of nurses from The Kirkwood are lacing up their walking boots and tackling the 29.5km Derbyshire Three Peaks Challenge this June to raise much-needed funds for the hospice. Among them is long-serving nurse Fran Zak, who is stepping up to support the place she has called home for over two decades.

Scheduled for 20th June, the Three Peaks Challenge comes at a critical time for The Kirkwood, which is facing significant financial difficulties. In response, Fran and her fellow nurses are going above and beyond their daily roles to help secure the future of the hospice and the care it provides to patients and families across Kirklees.

The team are currently in the middle of a demanding six-part training programme that includes walks through various scenic yet challenging terrains such as Colne Valley, New Mill, Briestfield, Wessenden Head, Holme Moss, and Meltham. Each walk is helping them build the strength and stamina needed for the main event, as well as reinforcing the team spirit that underpins their work.

For Fran, the challenge is both a physical and emotional undertaking.

She said: “I’m feeling unfit of late,” she admits. “I do like walking in the outdoors and nature, and I feel it will be a challenge. I’ve done one of the peaks before, Hellvelyn, and some long walks in the past, but I’m no spring chicken anymore!”

Despite her nerves, Fran is determined to give it her all, not just for herself, but for the patients and families who rely on The Kirkwood.

“We are all upset and unsettled by the news of the financial difficulty The Kirkwood is in,” she said. “It will be nice to spend time together as a nursing group, outside of work and in the outdoors. We all know the challenges faced by our patients, so we will work together to conquer these ‘hills’, thinking of them, I’m sure.”

Fran’s connection to The Kirkwood is a deep and heartfelt one. She first walked through its doors as a student nurse nearly 21 years ago and instantly knew it was where she belonged.

“When I first came to work for The Kirkwood as a final placement student, I thought, this is my idea of what nursing is, giving time to care for those people that matter. I love that as a hospice, we give holistic care.” She added. 

The community’s response to The Kirkwood’s recent struggles has been a source of inspiration for Fran and her colleagues. “Two little girls raising over £1,000 from a bun sale, that’s amazing! That’s just one example, and there are hundreds out there.”

Fran is immensely proud to have been part of The Kirkwood for over 20 years. She fondly recalls the words of a worried relative who once said: “I thought The Kirkwood would be all about dying, but after my experience, I realised it’s full of life.”

While she admits to being “a little apprehensive” about the upcoming challenge, Fran is focused on doing her best and supporting the team effort. “I’m determined to get over the hills, and back down, of course. I worry it might be too much for me, but I feel determined. Laura Hirst has put together some great training walks, and I’m very proud to be part of it. I don’t want to let anyone down!”

“I understand how hard it is for people right now with the cost-of-living crisis. So I would just say, every little helps. Please give what you can to ensure our wonderful hospice can weather this storm. As one of our nurses always says, ‘Kirky Rocks’.

The Kirkwood nurses are setting an incredible example, but they also encourage the wider community to take on their own challenges in support of The Kirkwood. Whether it’s a walking challenge, a fundraising event, or a personal goal, every contribution helps ensure that The Kirkwood can continue to provide its much needed care. Take on your own challenge by visiting our website HERE

The nurses are aiming to complete the hike in under 10 hours and are calling on the public to help them reach their fundraising goal. Donations can be made via their JustGiving page: HERE