When Liz Hignett promised her husband Daz she would keep his memory alive, she meant it — and she’s doing so in the most powerful way.
This September, Liz is walking 100 miles in his honour, raising vital funds for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity and the Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association. Her challenge, made up of ten 10-mile walks, will finish at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium, the future home of Everton Football Club — a place close to Daz’s heart.
Daz, a proud Evertonian and devoted husband and father of four, was diagnosed with bladder cancer at the age of 51. He received treatment at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, travelling between Liverpool and the Isle of Man with Liz by his side. Despite the aggressive nature of his illness, Daz faced every setback with courage and a smile.
“There was never a day after his diagnosis that we heard him complain,” Liz said. “He always asked, ‘Okay, what’s next?’”
Sadly, Daz passed away in September 2023, just one day before their 25th wedding anniversary. But his legacy lives on through Liz’s determination to raise over £1,000 in his name — and through the memories they made together, including a Mediterranean cruise where they renewed their vows.
The final walk of Liz’s challenge will take her from Huyton, where Daz grew up, to the stadium on the banks of the River Mersey. There, she’ll visit his memorial stone on Everton Way, a tribute to his lifelong love of the Blues.
“He used to watch drone footage of the stadium being built every day,” Liz recalled. “One of my favourite pictures is of him looking at the construction from the ferry.”
This isn’t the first time Liz and her family have walked in Daz’s memory. Their earlier Walk of Life, inspired by his love of Dire Straits, took them to Goodison Park, where they posed proudly in T-shirts bearing his image.
“Clatterbridge gave us the time to make precious memories,” Liz said. “I hope Daz’s story encourages others to be aware of their health and to get symptoms checked.”
Liz’s story is a moving reminder of the strength found in love, family, and community. Her fundraising helps ensure that Clatterbridge Cancer Centre can continue providing life-saving care and pioneering research for people across our region.
Whether it’s a walk, a run, a cycle, or something completely unique — your challenge can make a difference.
“It’s thanks to generous fundraisers like Liz that we can support the one in two people affected by cancer,” said Hannah Walsh, Community Fundraiser at Clatterbridge Cancer Charity.
So, what will your challenge be?
