Paisley woman remembered through cancer fundraiser

The Durham and Darlington community rehab and recovery team will compete in a Cancer Research UK Pretty Muddy 5K in honour of Hazel Thompson, a community support worker from Paisley who died from glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Hazel, who passed away last September at the age of just 52, is remembered fondly by colleagues for her compassion and care towards both patients and staff.

Sharon Bladen, a friend and colleague, said: "Hazel was a unique, one-of-a-kind soul who constantly went above and beyond for the people around her.

"She was so compassionate, so caring and we all miss her.

"Her absence leaves a profound void, but her incredible legacy of care continues to live on in our hearts."

The team, based at Lanchester Road Hospital in Durham, delivers community mental health support to adults as part of the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust.

Describing Hazel’s impact, Siobhan Fairs, team manager, said: "Hazel was so warm, caring, kind and compassionate.

"She was an amazing person who did great work, and we wanted to do something to honour her memory."

Hazel, originally from Paisley, had worked in a family business in America before joining Primrose Lodge rehabilitation unit in Chester-le-Street.

She later moved to the Durham community rehab team, where her professionalism and kindness left a lasting mark.

Hazel and Gary on their wedding day (Image: Contributed)

Emma Davis, an occupational therapist on the team, said: "Hazel was an incredible colleague.

"Her passing deeply affected our team, and brought us closer together.

"Taking part in the race feels like a meaningful way to honour Hazel, as well as to support our colleagues, friends and loved ones who are also affected by cancer.

"We want to honour Hazel’s character and legacy.

"She always wanted to make a difference — and this is our way of continuing that."

Emma Davis and Siobhan Fair (Image: Contributed)

The team hopes to raise hundreds of pounds for Cancer Research UK by taking part in the event on Saturday, June 27 at Herrington Country Park in Sunderland.

Siobhan said: "Hazel’s warm and caring presence is missed by all who knew her, and this is our way of honouring her kindness and dedication to excellent care.

"Her photos are on display in our main office and staff often place fresh flowers in her memory.

"Hazel was a very special person, I always think of her as simply the best."

Proud grandmother Hazel lived in Pelton Fell with her husband Gary.

Hazel and Gary on their 22nd wedding anniversary last year (Image: Contributed)

Hazel with her granddaughter (Image: Contributed)

In a tribute, Gary said: "I think what her colleagues are doing in her memory is remarkable, and I’d like to thank them all.

"Hazel would be so proud of each and every one of them.

"I miss my wife every single day and she leaves a void which can never be filled.

"Finding a cure for this savage disease is so important."

Donations in Hazel’s memory can be made through the team's Cancer Research UK fundraising page.