Ten years after the first Lucy Beesley Shield was played, family, friends and tennis players once again came together to celebrate Lucy’s life through the sport she loved. The annual event, played between Bangor University and Bangor Tennis Club, has become a cherished tradition, bringing together friendly competition, lasting friendships and an opportunity to raise awareness and vital funds for brainstrust.
Below, Lucy’s family share why the day continues to hold such special meaning and the difference your support makes.
“The 10th annual Lucy Beesley Shield event, played in honour of Lucy’s memory, recently brought together two rival teams of enthusiastic tennis players from Bangor University and Bangor Tennis Club. It has been played every year since Lucy’s death from a glioblastoma in March 2017. With the emphasis on fun and friendship, the Shield is always played in the greatest of spirit and camaraderie, albeit with an underlying level of competitiveness! This year Bangor Tennis Club were victorious and Lucy’s dad, Nigel, presented them with the Shield.
Lucy was a great fan of Bangor Tennis Club and on her return to uni during remission played at the University Club too, so it seems particularly fitting that the Shield Day reflects her connections with both competing teams. Lucy started playing tennis during her illness and the physicality of the game and sense of community at the Club always boosted her and gave her motivation during her treatment.
brainstrust was of fantastic support to all the family during Lucy’s illness and was always our first “port of call” when we needed back-up, greater understanding and empathy.
The event was a terrific success, raising £626.48 for brainstrust, and we are very grateful to all supporters, helpers and participants on the day.”
A huge thank you to Lucy’s family and friends for their wonderful support of brainstrust, and for the time, care and generosity put into another successful fundraiser.
Feeling inspired to organise your own fundraising event? We’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch with the team at fundraising@brainstrust.org.uk, we’ll support you every step of the way.
