A devoted dad has raised more than £10,000 for UHNM Charity after completing a 280-mile cycling challenge and organising a family fun day in memory of his daughter.
Chris Holland took on the challenge in memory of his 13-year-old daughter Mia, who sadly passed away in April 2025.
Beginning his ride at Westport Lake in Stoke-on-Trent, Chris cycled 280 miles to Ilfracombe Harbour in Devon, a destination that held special memories for Mia as one of her favourite family holiday locations.
Alongside the cycling challenge, Chris organised a family fun day at The Jolly Carter in Burslem, bringing friends, family and the local community together to celebrate Mia’s life and raise money in her memory.
Together, the fundraising activities raised an incredible £10,000-plus for UHNM Charity, helping Chris give something back to the hospital team who supported his family following Mia’s death.
Chris recently attended a cheque presentation at Royal Stoke University Hospital, where he was joined by Becci Bache, a Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood (SUDIC) Specialist Nurse.
Following Mia’s death, Becci and the wider team provided care, compassion and support to Chris and his family during an incredibly difficult time.
The specialist service supports families following the sudden and unexpected death of a child, offering emotional support, guidance and opportunities to create lasting memories.
For Chris and his family, this included precious keepsakes such as Mia’s fingerprints and a hand cast, helping them preserve memories of their daughter.
Through his fundraising, Chris hopes to thank the team who supported his family while helping other families facing similar circumstances.
His efforts also aim to raise awareness of suicide and mental health, encouraging conversations around the importance of seeking support.
UHNM Charity would like to thank Chris, his family, friends and everyone who supported the cycling challenge and family fun day.
The incredible amount raised is a fitting tribute to Mia, keeping her memory alive while helping support patients and families across University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust.
