Care Home Daredevil Rachael Tackles Trio of Terrifying Challenges for Residents

A Barnsley care home daredevil will take on a terrifying trio of high-adrenaline aerial challenges in June in a bid to raise funds for residents and charity.

Rachael Addy, 41, activities coordinator at Deangate Care Home, on Towngate, Mapplewell, has taken on daring annual fundraising challenges for the last two years.

Previously, she has performed a tandem skydive and swam with sharks, but this year she is raising the stakes with three challenges in a single month.

In June, Rachael will scale The O2 Arena in London, abseil down Liverpool FC’s Anfield Stadium, and finally bungee jump off the 140ft Larpool Viaduct in Whitby.

“She must be mad,” said Frances Smith, 91, a resident at Deangate Care Home. “I can’t believe it.”

Rachael has raised thousands of pounds in previous years for the care home’s residents’ fund, which goes towards activities and outings for residents, such as trips to the seaside.

This year, Rachael is splitting donations with BIADS Barnsley, a support service for those with dementia, their families and friends.

She chose the charity after her mother, Ann Caterer, 76, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in February this year.

Rachael said: “The fundraising always means a lot to me but this year it means even more, after my mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

“While she is still able, she will be coming along to watch me complete the challenges, alongside the residents from Deangate.

“The ladies and gents that will benefit from the money raised step out of their comfort zone each day living with Alzheimer’s.

“If these incredible ladies and gents can live their lives with a mix of fear, uncertainty, confusion, happiness, joy and raw emotions, then I can certainly do my bit and face mine.

“Life is too short. You never know what’s round the corner. I have faced my fears before and this will be no different. I hope people see you should never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.”

Rachael Dawson, home manager at Deangate Care Home, said: “She must have nerves of steel.”

Chantelle Peacock, deputy home manager, added: “She really is up for anything to help others.”

Rachael is hoping to raise as much as possible, having so far raised just under £1,000 in donations both online and in person.