After moving to Ryde in June 2022, Sue and Nick’s plans for a peaceful life were shattered when Nick was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer in October 2023. The support they received from Mountbatten during Nick’s final days deeply inspired Sue to give back.

Nick, a retired police inspector, and Sue, a former nurse, had envisioned a quiet retirement. However, in August 2023, Nick’s long-standing back issues revealed the devastating diagnosis of cancer that had spread extensively. With no treatment options, Nick was admitted to Mountbatten for palliative care.

Sue reflects on their time there: “From the minute we arrived... it was an immensely special feeling,” she says, recalling the warmth and care from staff who made them both feel “held, seen, and cared for.” She continues, “Never once did I feel alone.” The team’s support helped Sue through her toughest moments, inspiring her to keep moving forward.

After Nick’s death on 25 November, Sue began volunteering at Mountbatten. She now supports inpatients and outpatients, assisting with exercises and offering companionship to those without visitors. “I'm all alone on the Island. I don't have anybody here. So, a big thing for me is spending time with patients who haven’t got people to visit them. I bring them out of their room and into the John Cheverton Centre. Maybe get them a cup of tea, sit and have a chat with them. And best of all, get them outside.” 

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Sue’s dedication to Mountbatten extended beyond her volunteer work when she and her family, including her 13-year-old grandson, participated in Walk the Wight 2024, tackling the full 26.5-mile route in Nick’s memory.

“We started at 6 a.m. in Bembridge. I was very conscious of the ridiculous trousers I wore for the day with sunflowers all over them, but I was in good company!” she said with a smile.

“It was an incredible atmosphere. I did quite a bit of training, but I wasn’t ready for all the hills!” Sue admits. “As the day went on, I got slower and slower and when I saw the back walkers, I realised we were the last people walking.”

Despite the challenging terrain, Sue’s determination saw her through, arriving at the finish line around 8:30 p.m. to cheers and applause from the Mountbatten team. “Even if I crawled over the finish line alone, I would have got over it for Nick and Mountbatten and for all the people who sponsored me.”

Sue’s efforts raised over £560 individually, contributing to her team’s total of around £1,500. Many of the family, including Sue, have already signed up to Walk the Wight 2026 - Why not join them - Sign up today