Local lady prepares to brave icy water for local hospice

The Christmas will see the brave and adventurous taking a dip in the icy North Sea for their local hospice.

Hundreds of local people will be taking part in St Elizabeth Hospice’s Christmas Day Dip, frolicking into the freezing cold sea on Felixstowe beach on Christmas morning.

Tina Jeffery is just one of the supporters taking part to raise money for a cause close to her heart, St Elizabeth Hospice, as they cared for her dad, Keith Jeffery, in 2013.

Miss Jeffery said: “My dad was looked after by the hospice at home team. Dad always wanted to be at home, so I became his carer. 

“The hospice was a great support to me, advising me on exercise techniques; showing me how to cope with oxygen at home and in the car; and they were there at the other end of the phone, night or day.”

This year, Miss Jeffery will be dressed as Santa for the dip and is hoping to raise £200 in memory of her dad. All the money raised from the event will go towards helping family’s like the Jeffery’s, ensuring nobody has to face their illness alone.  

She added: “My dad lived for Christmas, he always took the role of Santa. We would have a lovely dinner and then play cards until the early hours, with lots of cheating going on! We laughed so much. I’ll never forget those Christmases. 

“If I can raise a small amount so that another family can receive the support that my family did, running into the ice cold water will be so worth it. 

“I know my dad will be looking down and smiling. Doing this for my dad will make me feel that he is still with me on Christmas day.”

The Christmas Day Dip takes place on Christmas morning on Felixstowe beach, opposite Mannings Amusements. Registration opens at 8.30am and when the horn sounds at 10am, everyone will charge into the water.

To sign up now click here or turn up on the day from 8.30am.  



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