A MUM whose daughter died of a rare condition days before her tenth birthday has been has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award for her tireless fundraising.
Dawn Cusworth, of Wood View in Birdwell, has been praised for raising more than £19,000 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.
The 47-year-old began fundraising after her daughter Mia spent her final moments at the hospice as it offered her and her family ‘safe place’.
Dawn said: “Bluebell Wood is incredibly close to my heart.
“We spent our final moments with Mia there, and it meant I didn’t have to go home and be reminded of her.
“They were incredible and I knew I had to do as much as I could to show how amazing they were.”
Dawn, who has helped to host a variety of fundraising events, is looking ahead to more fundraising opportunities.
“Last year, I raised more than £19,000 for Bluebell Wood which was absolutely incredible.
“Through the annual Mud Madness and charity ball events, we’ve raised this incredible sum and I can’t be more chuffed.
“With everything happening in the world at the moment, the fundraising has had to be put on hold, but I’m raring to go when it’s safe to do so.
“We’ve got a lot of exciting things in the pipeline for next year and we can’t wait to get going.”
Her fundraising efforts have landed her a nomination at this year’s Proud of Barnsley in the Fundraiser of the Year category.
“I’m so surprised to be nominated for Fundraiser of the Year. It’s not something you set out to do.
“I just wanted to support a cause that has been there for me during my toughest of times.
“I thank everyone who has donated so generously, and I’m looking forward to raising even more money for the hospice.”
