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Silsden gym owner raises £7,370 for Breast Care Unit at Airedale Hospital

Stuart and Mahalia

Co‑owner of Cobbydale Forge Gym in Silsden Stuart Heaviside, has completed one of Britain’s toughest endurance challenges.

Stuart recently completed the Montane Winter Spine Challenger North, raising an incredible £7,370 for the Breast Care Unit at Airedale Hospital.

The Winter Spine Challenger North is known as Britain’s most brutal ultra-endurance event. 

The route covers more than 160 miles of the most beautiful but difficult terrain in deep winter.

Stuart faced sub-zero temperatures, relentless climbs and long hours of darkness making it both physically and mentally challenging.

For Stuart, the challenge was for his partner Mahalia who recently completed treatment for breast cancer.

Mahalia underwent a series of medical procedures including biopsies, two major surgeries and a double mastectomy, along with ongoing treatment and hospital appointments.

“Taking on the Spine race was my way of giving something back to the incredible team at Airedale who supported us through such a difficult time. 

“Every mile was for her—and for the staff who cared for her.”

Stuart’s efforts will help fund specialist equipment, enhance patient spaces and provide additional support for patient care within Airedale Hospital’s Breast Care Unit, ensuring other patients receive the same compassionate care Mahalia experienced.

Jodie Hearnshaw, Charity Manager at Airedale Hospital & Community Charity, said:

“Stuart’s determination and generosity are truly inspiring, and his fundraising will make a huge difference to our patients and their families.

"We spent days nervously tracking Stuart’s journey, cheering him on from afar.

"We’re incredibly grateful for his support.”

Mahalia said:

“The Breast Care Unit helped me through the toughest period of my life.

"Seeing Stuart take on such an enormous challenge to support them means more than I can say.”

Donations can still be made at: www.justgiving.com/page/stuart-heaviside.

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