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News • August 5th, 2026
|A remarkable story has emerged from West Yorkshire, highlighting the incredible spirit of a local woman who has turned her battle with terminal illness into a source of inspiration and support for others. Diana Mitchell, a 75-year-old patient at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, has successfully raised over £1,000 through a charity walk, demonstrating that determination and community support can shine brightly even in the darkest times.
Diana's Challenge
Diana, who lives in Oakworth, has faced numerous health challenges throughout her life, including severe osteoarthritis, heart disease, and a debilitating diagnosis of stage four lung cancer in 2019. After undergoing aggressive immunotherapy treatment, she now relies on a wheelchair and an oxygen machine to assist her in daily activities. Despite these obstacles, Diana committed herself to a walking challenge, which she completed on Saturday, 27 June, at Yeadon Tarn. Surrounded by friends and family, she walked a mile in just under three hours, taking a much-needed break halfway through her journey.
Giving Back to Sue Ryder
The motivation behind Diana's fundraising efforts is deeply personal. She has a long-standing connection with Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, as her mother received care there before passing away from cancer in 1983. Additionally, her aunt was cared for by the hospice after being diagnosed with stomach cancer. Most recently, Diana's sister, Barbara, received inpatient care at the hospice and sadly passed away in March of this year.
Diana expressed her gratitude:
“The walk was to thank Sue Ryder for the help that they've given me and the support my family have received. I can't volunteer – I'm not well, I'm not fit and strong enough. So, the only way I could think of helping was to raise money.”
Her dedication to giving back to the charity that has provided crucial support to her and her family over the years is truly commendable.
The Impact of Community Support
During her fundraising journey, Diana trained extensively at the Sue Ryder gym, where she participated in rehabilitation sessions designed to improve her strength and breathing. She noted, “If I hadn't been going to the gym, I wouldn't have been able to do the training for the walk. I wouldn't have been able to do the walk. They help you to live the time you've got left well – to keep you fit and strong, and in the right frame of mind.”
In total, Diana raised £1,172, a sum that will significantly contribute to the vital services provided by Sue Ryder, including hospice care, home support, and bereavement assistance. These services offer hope, dignity, and kindness to those in need and their families during some of the most challenging times.
A Message of Resilience
Diana’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of adversity. She has experienced profound loss, with three of her siblings and her husband, Geoff, passing away in recent years. Geoff, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, also benefitted from the counselling services offered by Sue Ryder. Diana shared, “I've lost three siblings and my husband in the last few years. It’s devastating, and the support of Manorlands has been invaluable in helping me cope with that – both mentally and physically.”
Through her journey, Diana has adopted a positive outlook on life:
“A lot of people stop living because they've got cancer. I live with cancer. The way to live with it is to pretend you haven't got it. Acknowledge the fatigue, manage the fatigue, but do what you can when you can – while you can.
