Rebecca Haestier, Ilkley Grammar student wanted to help raised funds for Candlelighters by swimming 20 lengths with two broken legs which are in cages. 

Courageous student Rebecca Haestier who is 14 years old, decided she would like to raise money in an epic swimming challenge to give back to Candlelighters to help children and their families who are going through their most difficult time.  

Rebecca recently had a cancer scare, but thankfully she got the all clear. While Rebecca was in Hospital, she met our Family Support team at Leeds Children’s Hospital.

Rebecca said, “Thankfully everything is ok for me. But while I was in hospital, I met some children who didn’t have such good news. I also had the opportunity to see and experience first-hand how wonderful Candlelighters are and the amazing work they do. From having Netflix at your bed to delicious food to tempt you to eat. They were so friendly and supportive and full of joy. They make such a difference to what a scary and overwhelming situation is.”

Along with support from her mum, dad, sister and friends, Rebecca decided to take on her very own swimming challenge in the hope to raise £200 – but not just any ordinary swimming challenge.  In January 2023 Rebecca, had both her legs broken and put in external fixators which are cages which makes it very difficult for her to walk and she relies on crutches and a wheelchair to get around. Rebecca decided she wanted to go big and bold, swimming 20 lengths with her legs in cages with mum swimming at her side at local swimming baths in Settle.  

The brave and fearless student, Rebecca, swam 20 lengths in an amazing 45 minutes and raised an incredible £2,716 for us! She celebrated with her family that night with a movie and takeaway. Rebecca is also working with the antibullying team at her school who are going to do some further fundraising for us. 

Becki Marren, Senior Regional Fundraiser said, “I feel so privileged to support amazing people like Rebecca, who want give back to their local community. The determination and bravery of Rebecca’s challenge is so inspiring and the incredible money she has raised will help pay towards three family holidays, providing them with some much-needed escapism and allowing them to make previous memories together. Rebecca should be so proud of herself.”