Katy Jordan, a resident of Keighley, is preparing to participate once again in the Sue Ryder Keighley 10k and 5k event this spring, following a deeply personal journey that saw her discover unexpected strength through running during her mother's final months. She is now actively encouraging others to join her in supporting the vital, expert care provided by Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice.
Event Details and Route Information
The community fundraising event is scheduled to take place on Mother's Day, Sunday, March 15, 2026. It will commence and conclude at Victoria Park in Keighley. Participants have the option to choose between a 5k or a 10k circular route. Both courses will feature scenic stretches along the historic Leeds–Liverpool Canal and will pass by the notable East Riddlesden Hall. The longer 10k route will additionally extend towards the grounds of Keighley Golf Club. This year's event has received generous sponsorship from the Modality Partnership.
A Personal Journey of Strength and Support
Katy, aged 42, first registered for the 5k event last year while she was caring for her mother, Carol, during her cancer treatment. "Training became a lifeline for me," Katy reflected. "I desperately needed something positive to focus on that wasn't hospital visits or the anxiety of waiting for medical results. I had never considered myself a runner before, but getting outside and gradually building up my stamina provided me with precious moments of calm during a period when everything else in my life felt utterly beyond my control."
Tragically, Katy's mother passed away in March of last year. In her final days, she received compassionate care from the dedicated team at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, which allowed Carol to spend her remaining time surrounded by her family. "I cannot adequately put into words the level of compassion and kindness we all received," Katy added. "The staff didn't just care for my mum with incredible professionalism; they supported our entire family through an immensely difficult time. Mum particularly loved the wellbeing sessions offered, from meditation to tai chi, and those special moments gifted us with precious memories during a period when finding joy felt almost impossible."
Completing the Run in Memory of Her Mother
Despite battling profound exhaustion and grief, Katy found the resolve to complete the 5k run on Mother's Day, just days after her mum's passing. Her efforts raised an impressive sum of more than £2,500 for the hospice. "I knew I had to do it for Mum," Katy explained. "If she could face years of gruelling treatment with such remarkable strength and even a smile, then I could certainly find the strength within myself to simply put one foot in front of the other and finish the race in her honour."
Continuing Support and Community Impact
Motivated by her experience, Katy is returning to the event this year to continue her unwavering support for Manorlands Hospice. Liv Moffat, the senior community fundraiser at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, shared her thoughts on the event's significance. "We are incredibly grateful to every single person who chooses to take part in the Sue Ryder Keighley 10k and 5k. Heartfelt stories like Katy's powerfully demonstrate just how much our specialist care means to local families during their most challenging times."
"Every step taken by our participants directly helps us to continue providing expert, compassionate palliative care when it is needed most," Moffat continued. "We are warmly encouraging people across the community to sign up now and join us for a meaningful and active celebration on Mother's Day."
The event stands as a poignant testament to community spirit, personal resilience, and the critical importance of supporting local hospice services that offer comfort and dignity to families in need.
