Hanneke Dye

I would like to nominate Mrs Hanneke Dye, a truly inspirational lady. Hanneke was born in hiding in Nazi occupied Holland. Separated from her parents for two years, she was hidden in a Catholic children's home where her hair was dyed blonde to disguise her Jewish heritage. Hanneke moved to the UK in the 1960's where she raised her children. When she was around 30 yrs old she separated from her husband & found herself with no British qualifications or work experience & three children to raise. She began working as a secretary, gradually working her way up through the ranks to a senior management position by retirement. Just a few years into her retirement, her second husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Hanneke nursed him through his illness, never leaving his side for more then a few hours over a 2 year period. During this illness her husband received care at Manorland Hospice, Keighley. So impressed was Hanneke with care he received that following his death she retrained as a masseuse & volunteers at Mannorlands Hospice once per week, treating patients & their families to a relaxing massage. As if that were not enough, Hanneke began the Warfedale Support Group to raise funds for the hospice. Over the past four years the group have raised just over £40K. Hanneke is a truly inspiring lady, overcoming adversity time & time again, never giving up, always thinking of others. I believe she would be an ideal touch bearer for the Olympic Torch as it passes through Yorkshire.