A Wrexham woman is fundraising in her husband's memory, including an event celebrating his life, after being deprived of a fitting farewell due to pandemic restrictions.
Geoff Harrison was 55 when he lost his life to undiagnosed stomach cancer in January 2021. Now wife Penny is committed to raising awareness and funds for a charity she wishes she had known about during their ordeal.
On May 20, Penny, from Rhosymedre, will be taking on the Three Peaks with colleague Llinos Walker, walking the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales in 24 hours in aid of Guts UK.
She said: "This charity has given me the positivity to move forward in life, to channel negativity into some thing that can make a huge difference. Hopefully educating others about hidden cancers and not been afraid to seek help.
"Had I have know about Guts UK a long time before.
"This is about getting the voice of the charity out there. If I can help one in a million I'll be happy."
Swimming instructor Penny chose the charity for donations from Geoff's funeral, and just over £3,000 was raised.
Because she was unable to hold a wake but didn't want the memories to go away, she has now organised an event for friends and family to come together and remember Geoff, while raising much-needed funds.
Held at the Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa in Llangollen, the evening will feature an auction, and a raffle, which includes a variety of lots such as a stay at the hotel's honeymoon suite and a large hamper.
Also on the day, Penny's brother-in-law, Steve Hesbrook, will be doing a sponsored cycle of about 45 miles from his home near Newport, Shropshire to the Llangollen hotel.
Penny adds: "It's been a very difficult time but I'm trying to turn everything as positive as I can."
So thankful for Penny's efforts, Guts UK recently invited her to London and meet Princess Alexandra, the charity's ambassador, at St James' Palace.
She described the chance to represent the charity as a "real privilege".
• If you would like to support Penny in her efforts for Guts UK, you can donate via her JustGiving page - www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Penny-Harrison71
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here