Claire was not only a very talented member of the IGNIFI team, but her kind, determined personality and infectious sense of humour was what made a lasting impression on anyone who met her.

From running the Great North Run, taking part in Tough Mudders, organising cake sales, charity walks and challenges, it was Claire who was always at the forefront of all fundraising activity at IGNIFI. Even whilst going through a 15-month battle with chemo and radiotherapy and then waiting on her stem cell transplant at the start of 2023, Claire was selflessly raising funds for the Anthony Nolan charity throughout this time.

As a team, we wanted to carry on the incredible legacy Claire created at IGNIFI so we will continue to raise funds for Anthony Nolan, a charity very close to our hearts as it was to Claire’s.

Every day, Anthony Nolan saves the lives of people with blood cancer or a blood disorder. The charity does this by matching incredible individuals willing to donate their stem cells to people who desperately need a lifesaving transplant. They also carry out cutting-edge scientific research, fund specialist post-transplant nurses and support patients and their families through the transplant process and beyond.

Over the course of the next year, collectively as a team and individually, we have some epic challenges planned to raise funds for our chosen charity:

The IGNIFI team will be coming together with our family, friends and dogs to complete a 9-mile coastal walk from IGNIFI HQ at No. 43 to Claire’s local pub in South Shields where we’ll end by raising a toast in her memory.

Laura Smith, our Digital Engagement Manager, will be taking on the 2024 London Marathon. Laura is a keen runner and has completed many events up to half marathon distance. However, doubling the distance to take on her first marathon and running 26.2 miles in one go certainly will be a challenge.

Please keep an eye on our blog and social media as we plan on adding to these events as the year progresses.