On Saturday, December 14th, 2024, Claire, along with her family and the Follifoot community, came together to honour the memory of her father, Mike Cave, with a heartfelt Christmas fundraiser at Follifoot Village Hall. Claire and her friends and family chose to fundraise for us as we cared for Mike in his final weeks. The event raised over £6,000, which is an incredible amount that will go a long way in helping us support more families like Mike’s.
Speaking with Mike’s friends and family it is clear he was more than a husband, father, and grandfather—he was a cornerstone of the village, known for his kindness, generosity, and readiness to lend a hand. After retiring from a career in woodwork and teaching, Mike and his wife Kathleen settled in Follifoot 20 years ago. There, he quickly became an integral part of village life, forming bonds with neighbours and earning the respect and affection of all who knew him.
In March 2024, Mike was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and in less than five weeks, he passed away, spending his final days with us at Saint Michael’s Hospice. His passing left a deep void in the community but also inspired an outpouring of love and gratitude for the man who had touched so many lives. Tributes to Mike painted a picture of his warmth and impact on the community that he loved.
One tribute read:
“I have learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. One of Mike’s fine characteristics was that many will remember how he made them feel … and they will smile.”
Another shared, “We will miss his soft, lilting Bristol accent, his dry sense of humour, his smile, and his gentle, caring manner, knowing that his was a life well lived.”
On the day of the fundraiser the community of Follifoot and family and friends from near and far came together to raise money for Saint Michael’s Hospice. Their generosity and support left Claire, her mother Kathleen, and sister Laura deeply moved.
Anne and Andy Dewsnip from the village Post Office were fabulous quiz hosts, Sue Wearmouth and her Harrogate Neighbours team provided a tasty chilli and the delicious cakes were baked by the Follifoot Coffee and Cake Ladies. The quiz was followed by a hugely successful Auction and raffle.
It was a fun and festive evening and Mike, who loved Christmas, was very much at the heart of it.
Thanks to the kindness of local businesses, the unwavering support of the Follifoot community, and the dedication of Mike’s family and friends, the event raised an astonishing £6,200.00.
For Claire, it was a night to remember, with her father’s memory at the heart of it all. She reflected that her Dad would have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and generosity of everyone who supported the event.
Mike Cave’s impact on the people around him lives on, not only in the memories of those who knew him but also in the community’s remarkable effort to make a difference in his honour.
If you are feeling inspired by the community spirit and funds raised in honour of Mike, you can do your own fundraising. Please click here to find out more about how you can create your own fundraiser and make a difference to local people like Mike today.
