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Amber’s Year of Challenges as a tribute to her Dad

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Man in couch chair with daughter and son either side and wife behind

When Amber Dyra’s Dad died of cancer in October 2024, it was a devastating moment for her and her family.

Daniel Dyra had just turned 47 years old and had battled breast cancer for over three years. In his final days, he was cared for at the Inpatient Unit in the Hospice.

Those few days left an indelible mark on Amber, her family, and their memories of Daniel’s final moments.

 

“Dad was only with Arthur Rank Hospice for four days but the care he received was amazing.”

“On his final day, he couldn’t communicate, but the nurses knew to put Formula 1 on the TV because they understood that’s what he would have wanted. They’d only known him a couple of days, but they still managed to make it so personal.”

Daniel was a well-loved member of the community, working as a caretaker at Cottenham Village College.

memorial bench wooden with large spray of flowers
Memorial bench at Cottenham Village College

His kindness, humour, and supportive nature left an impression on everyone he met. For Amber, his memory is a driving force behind her decision to dedicate 2025 to fundraise for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity. Amber added:

“I want to give back as much as I can and raise as much money as possible throughout the year.”

“Dad would probably say my challenges are ridiculous but I know he’d still be there cheering me on – just like he used to at the bike tracks.”

A Year of Challenges

Amber’s plan for 2025 is ambitious and heartfelt, with each challenge pushing her to her limits while rallying her family, friends, and colleagues to support the cause. Alongside her fiancé Jamie and some of her colleagues from LA Academy Swimming, Amber will take on a variety of events that blend physical endurance with emotional dedication.

Here’s what her year looks like so far:

  • January: Running 100km over the month. (Amber is ready with a backup plan if an injury sidelines her.)
  • February: Swimming 21 miles—the equivalent of crossing the English Channel—alongside some of her colleagues.
  • March: Cycling 100km in a month.
  • April: Participating in the Drayton Manor 10km run.
  • May: Taking on the Mission Mud run at Waterbeach Barracks.
  • June: Running the Flaming June 10km in Histon and Impington.
  • July: Completing 1,500 burpees in a month. “I hate burpees, so this will be a real challenge!” Amber admits.
  • November: Running the Bonfire Burn in Histon and Impington.
  • December: Ending the year with a major challenge—competing in a HYROX fitness event.

Amber is still finalising plans for August, September, and October but wants October to be a significant challenge in honour of her Dad, marking the anniversary of his death.

Amber’s family experienced the full breadth of Arthur Rank Hospice’s compassionate care. From the practical support, like helping Daniel’s youngest son understand what was happening, to small but meaningful gestures, the team at the Hospice made a difficult time more bearable.

“They helped us explain things to my youngest brother and even provided books to help him understand. The nurses were so welcoming and made the experience as calm and peaceful as possible. Whether it was offering advice, tea, or even just a hug, they made a huge difference.”

The family also appreciated the practical details, such as the ability to come and go without leaving the site, allowing them to stay close while taking breaks to eat or get some air.

By sharing her journey, Amber hopes to inspire others to contribute to Arthur Rank Hospice Charity and help other families facing similar challenges. Amber concluded:

“I could never thank them enough for the care and support they gave to my Dad and all of us in his final days.”

If you would like to support Amber and help her reach her fundraising goals, visit JustGiving. Every donation helps Arthur Rank Hospice Charity continue to provide outstanding care to those who need it most.


If you would like to support people in Cambridgeshire living with an advanced serious illness or other life-limiting condition and end of life care, email Sarah at challenges@arhc.org.uk or call 01223 675888.