Derby mum takes on challenging abseil for her twin boys

A mum of twins who have a rare neuromuscular condition plans to abseil 212 feet from the top of Derby Cathedral to raise money for Rainbows. 

Sarah Wilson is mum to 16-year-old brothers Sam and Alex Bolton. Diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 2 when they were 18-months-old, the boys have been visiting Rainbows for 13 years for care and support.

As well as respite and medical care, the boys have experienced some amazing memories at our hospice including meeting David Walliams and One Direction as well as being the stars of a BBC Children in Need appeal.

“I describe Rainbows as the place where I hand over Sam and Alex and know that they are being looked after, safe and having loads of fun,” said Sarah. “Now that Sam and Alex are young adults, they need more care and support but still need to be independent so now, more than they were young, Rainbows is a vital part of our lives as a family.”

Sarah will be taking on the challenge with her sister, Natalie Walford, of Chesterfield. They are excited but nervous to climb the 189 steps to the top of the Cathedral before descending 212 feet to the ground.

She added: “I have never done an abseil before and decided that it was a good way to raise money for Rainbows but felt that I shouldn’t do it alone which is why I decided Natalie should do it too!”

Claire Hoggan, Rainbows Events Fundraiser said: “Sarah knows firsthand how important the services are that we offer and we know how much Sam and Alex love coming to Rainbows. We rely on our supporters to enable us to continuing providing care for families like Sarah’s and we hope their story inspires others to get behind us, or maybe even sign up to the Derby Cathedral Abseil.”

Rainbows, which is the only children’s hospice to care for those from Derbyshire with life-limited illnesses, still has places for the event on Saturday 2 October. 
 
To sponsor Sarah and Natalie, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Sarah-Wilson213