21 Mar 2025 Community

Nurse Gillian Whitaker Takes on Derbyshire Three Peaks Challenge to Support Vital Local Care

A passionate team of nurses from The Kirkwood is gearing up for an inspiring feat of endurance this June, as they take on the demanding 29.5km Derbyshire Three Peaks Challenge to raise much-needed funds for the charity. Among the team is Gillian Whitaker, a nurse whose connection to The Kirkwood runs deep both professionally and personally.

Set to take place on 20th June, the challenge comes at a critical time for The Kirkwood, which is currently facing significant financial pressures. The nurses are stepping far beyond their day-to-day duties in a powerful show of dedication to ensure the continuation of compassionate care for patients and families across Kirklees.

To prepare, the team is undertaking a rigorous six-part training plan, which includes a series of long-distance walks across some of the region’s toughest terrains: Colne Valley (6.9 miles), New Mill (8 miles), Briestfield (9.6 miles), Wessenden Head (9.6 miles), Holme Moss (11.4 miles), and Meltham (14.5 miles). Each walk has tested their stamina and strengthened their commitment to the cause.

For Gillian, the motivation is simple but deeply heartfelt. “We’re doing this to raise money for The Kirkwood, so we can continue providing the fantastic service they offer to people in Kirklees, supporting those with life limiting conditions and their families when they need it most,” she explains.

While Gillian is no stranger to walking, she admits this is unlike anything she’s attempted before. “Nothing on this scale,” she says. “This will be a big challenge for me, both mentally and physically.” But what gives her strength is the shared passion within the team: “We all have a shared love of The Kirkwood, and it’ll be a brilliant team bonding experience. We’re in this together.”

Gillian’s journey with The Kirkwood is especially personal. Her own mother spent her final days in the hospice, an experience that shaped Gillian’s perspective and solidified her desire to work there. “Every shift I work, I know I’m making a positive difference to someone’s day. Of course, there are sad moments, but there’s also so much laughter and joy. We laugh with our patients and their families. It’s a place full of life, not just loss,” she shares.

“People often ask me how I can work somewhere that cared for my mum in her final days. But it’s quite the opposite, I saw firsthand just how amazing The Kirkwood is. The way the staff cared not just for my mum, but for us as a family, was incredible. Now, I get to be part of someone else’s journey. That’s something I cherish.”

Gillian feels deeply about the importance of sustaining The Kirkwood’s services. “The In-Patient unit and the community care are second to none. Anyone who’s experienced The Kirkwood will tell you the same. I can’t imagine our community without it.”

With just a few months to go until the challenge, she admits to feeling nervous. “I’m excited, but also very apprehensive,” she says. “It’s going to be really tough, but we’re asking people to donate their hard earned money, so it shouldn’t be easy. We want to earn every penny.

“Without donations like these, the future of The Kirkwood is uncertain. The thought of losing this wonderful place, it doesn’t bear thinking about. It would be a huge loss to the people of Kirklees.”

Reflecting on the challenge ahead, Gillian is filled with pride. “I can’t put into words how proud I am to be part of this team. I feel privileged to work for The Kirkwood. Supporting it in this way is just one more way I can give back to the place that has given so much to me and my family.”

To support Gillian and her team as they take on the Derbyshire Three Peaks Challenge, visit The Kirkwood’s website to donate. 

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