Denise Ridsdale

My name is Denise Ridsdale and I have had the honour and pleasure of being associated with Eve Merton’s Dream Trust since 2011.

I first met Martin when he was introduced to me and my husband by my youngest daughter Joanne as her boyfriend. He came into our home back in 2010 with a big smile, shook my husband’s hand and said hello, the usual niceties. Martin turned to me, shook my hand and said, “nice to meet you mother”. The warmth and sincerity in those words meant so much.

I am currently employed as the Registered Manager for Drewdales Homecare Services. At the time I met Martin, I was employed as a Specialist Wound Care Nurse Practitioner at Doncaster Royal Infirmary.

Then one day in November 2010, I received a request from a ward at Doncaster Royal Infirmary to review a lady with a wound that was failing to heal. It soon became apparent that the patient I had come to see was Martin’s mum, Eve. I was honoured to get to know Eve over the next couple of months. Her determination and commitment to overcome this horrendous disease called Cancer was inspiring. Sadly, Eve lost her fight with cancer in January 2011.

I have supported the charity, hands on, since the very early days. I’m also available in my role as Trustee to draw on my many years in the NHS, to offer professional advice surrounding individual cases and potential support for some of the families coming into the charity.

Thank you Eve Merton for your legacy and the opportunity to be a part of it.