Katie’s Fiery Feat: Braving the Flames to Raise Funds For Other Carers

In October 2024, we held a Firewalk to raise funds and awareness of Carers in East Kent. Our Firewalkers showed amazing bravery in overcoming their fears to cross the coals and raised  £5,000 in doing so. We asked participant, Katie who raised the most individual sponsorship, what inspired her to take part and to raise such a huge amount, £648. Here she shares her experience.

“My Mum was diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia when she was 56 and still working. I never expected that would happen to someone so young, and at 26 I never imagined I’d be caring for a parent until much later in life.

There were suddenly a multitude of things to manage; medical appointments, social care, power of attorney, financial and legal matters, plus dealing with her memory issues and wandering. All of this was new, and I had to navigate it whilst working full-time, and whilst watching my Mum fading away in front of me.

I was visiting her 3-4 times a day, performing all day-to-day care tasks, preparing all meals, and managing her finances. After a fall and a night spent outside without using her Lifeline, I had to fight to prove she could no longer live alone. Residential care is predominantly for those 65+ and I struggled to find a home for her. Following a rapid deterioration and two further falls (breaking her wrist and neck), nursing care was needed. After much research I discovered NHS Continuing Healthcare which was eventually granted – but only after I appealed.

At that time I became pregnant and tried to tell Mum on multiple occasions. The last time I told her there was a glimmer of lucidity for the first time in weeks and she responded happily. Sadly, she died days later, aged only 57. Dementia is such a cruel disease and is a perpetual grieving process for loved ones, but I cling to that precious moment to this day.

It never occurred to me to seek support from a charity such as Carers’ Support East Kent – I just wasn’t aware of it. I wish I’d known about the support they provide whilst I was looking after Mum. I felt so alone at the time and believed it was all on me to navigate everything myself – none of my friends had any similar experiences to provide advice. So, when I saw the opportunity to do a fire walk to support the charity and raise awareness for others, I jumped at the chance! 

I’m a self-confessed adrenaline junkie, so I was surprised that I felt a little nervous before the fire walk. I had never done anything like it. The training beforehand was incredibly inspiring, and I had family and friends there to cheer me on. The walk itself was an unusual sensation – arguably walking barefoot on the concrete carpark was more uncomfortable!

The camaraderie and support amongst participants were fantastic, to the point where every single person made the decision to do the walk again without hesitation! I felt more relaxed knowing what to expect the second time and could actually enjoy it.

The whole experience was incredibly empowering, and it was humbling to have the opportunity and raise both money and awareness for such a wonderful charity that I know does so much great work supporting people when they need it most. It was truly an experience I’ll never forget.”