Bicester woman to walk on fire in memory of her son

Micheala Middleton will take on the challenge on October 19 at Tilsley Park in Abingdon.

She will be raising money for Oxford-based hospice Helen & Douglas House, where her son, Finley, received care.

Finley, who often visited the hospice for respite visits, suffered from a life-shortening condition and passed away in May 2023.

Micheala Middleton with her son, Finley, and his sister, Lucie (Image: Helen & Douglas House) His condition was never specifically diagnosed, but he had multiple medical problems, including immune deficiency and issues with his endocrine system, which helps to regulate growth and development and metabolism.

Mrs Middleton said: "Our experience with Helen & Douglas House has been nothing but spectacular.

"Everyone has been so kind and supportive, not just to Finley but to all our family. The hospice has been a lifeline in our journey with Finley."

Anyone can sign up for the fire walk, which will begin at 4.30pm, with a £20 entry fee.

Participants will be trained by Scott Bell, a two-time Guinness World Record holder for the greatest distance walked on fire.

Finley died aged 14 last year (Image: Helen & Douglas House) They will then walk across coals with temperatures exceeding 1000 degrees Fahrenheit.

The event will also feature a pizza truck, a fire dancer, and performances by the Oxford Rock Choir.

Mrs Middleton said: "I am keen to give back to the charity which has helped our family for over 12 years and continues to support our family.

"I have started volunteering at Helen & Douglas House events like the Bubble Rush and also want to raise money through taking part in the fire walk.

"I know first-hand the difference the money raised through these sorts of events make to families like ours."

Finley with his mum and dad, Micheala and Justin, and sister Lucie (Image: Helen & Douglas House) Mrs Middleton said Finley "loved being able to do exactly what he wanted," saying he enjoyed using the art room at the hospice and playing on the Xbox and PlayStation.

She added: "When Finley passed away our whole world fell apart.

"Our journey so far has been a big learning curve. Lots of firsts, lots of loneliness and mental numbness, not believing it’s true.

"So many emotions, anger, sadness, disbelief, denial, and ‘what if’s’ and could we have changed the outcome?

"The most challenging part is accepting and coping with the situation.

“We remember Finley every day. I always say good morning and goodnight to him, and I talk to him during the day.

“We have been lucky to have the support of Helen & Douglas House who provided us with the chance to engage with other families going through the same thing as us.”