At nearly 78 years old, retired police detective Chris Upham from Great Sankey, Warrington, is proving that age is no barrier to bravery—or fundraising. This September, Chris will abseil down 11 storeys of The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool, dressed as none other than Spiderman, to raise vital funds for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity.
Despite a lifelong fear of heights, Chris is determined to take on the challenge to say thank you for the exceptional care his family has received from Clatterbridge.
His personal connection to cancer runs deep: he is currently living with prostate cancer, has recently lost a loved one to the disease, and has witnessed both his niece complete treatment and his brother-in-law enter remission.
“My fear of heights is nothing compared to the fear someone feels when they’re told they have cancer,” Chris said. “This abseil is my way of showing gratitude and doing something tangible to support others.”
Initially setting a fundraising target of £500, Chris has been overwhelmed by the generosity of his friends and family. After joking that he’d wear a Spiderman costume if donations reached £2,500, support surged past £4,000, and he’s now aiming for £5,000.
“Apparently, everyone wants to see Spiderman’s grandad in action,” Chris laughed. “So that’s what they’ll get!”
The Clatterbridge Abseil takes place on Sunday 14th September, offering participants the chance to descend the hospital building in either a morning or afternoon slot. Every pound raised helps Clatterbridge Cancer Charity continue supporting the one in two people affected by cancer across the region.
“Chris’s courage and humour are truly inspiring,” said Chloe Hicks, Events Fundraiser at Clatterbridge Cancer Charity. “Supporters like him make it possible for us to fund life-saving research and care.”
- Sponsor Chris Upham: Donate via JustGiving
- Take part in the Clatterbridge Abseil: Register here
Whether you’re inspired to donate or brave the descent yourself, every action helps make a difference for people facing cancer.
