Heartbreaking incident that inspired Captain Tom to raise money for NHS

In these dark and uncertain times, the world needs more people like Captain Tom Moore, the man who has raised over £14 million for the NHS from his back garden.

This morning the World War II hero finished his 100 laps around the garden, at the time of writing raising a massive £14,015,674.56 for the health service – with donations still pouring in.

The 99-year-old originally set out to raise £1,000 by walking a hundred lengths of his back garden – which is 25m in length – with the help of his walking frame, before he turns 100 at the end of the month.

It’s safe to say he absolutely smashed his original target, as his mission to raise funds for our health service went viral over the past few days.

But what inspired Tom to undertake this incredible fundraising mission? Well it turns out there’s a heartbreaking backstory to it all, which led to him raising money for the ‘amazing’ workers at the NHS.

Tom was born in Keighley, West Yorkshire, where he went to Keighley Grammar School before completing an apprenticeship as a Civil Engineer.

He was enlisted at the beginning of the Second World War, and in 1940 was selected for officer training – Tom was posted in India, served and fought on the Arakan, went to Sumatra after the Japanese surrender and returned afterwards to be an instructor at the Armoured Fighting Vehicle School in Bovington.

After returning to civilian life he became a salesman, where he met his beloved wife Pamela, with the couple marrying and having two daughters, Lucy and Hannah.

Maytrix Group / JustGiving

In a heartbreaking turn, Pamela’s health began to decline 20 years ago. Tom became her carer, feeding her her meals and sitting with her, until sadly she passed away 14 years ago – the ex-soldier credits the NHS for providing incredible care for Pamela over the years.

Tom also has a personal reason for thanking the health service, as several years ago he was diagnosed with skin cancer and was treated by the NHS – he also had a hip replacement after a fall in the kitchen.

Tom said: “Every penny that we get, [the NHS] deserve every one of it. They’re wonderful. Amazing. They’ve seen me through and cared for Pamela. I just wanted to thank them.”

He also had an inspirational message for the country: “I’ve always been one for having a future, I always think things will be good. We’ve fought so many battles and we’ve always won and we’re going to win again.”

What a hero and inspiration to us all – well done Captain Tom!