Determined wife and friend vows to support loved ones

Glossop is preparing to come together for an unforgettable event of music and community spirit, as the Empire hosts a special charity fundraiser.

Many readers will remember Suzanne and Dave, who ran Edwards Bar in Hadfield for 14 years. They were at the heart of the community, welcoming customers and building friendships that lasted long beyond their time behind the bar. But in recent years, life has been unimaginably difficult for them. 

Suzanne has endured a series of personal battles, including breast cancer, knee operations, the loss of her father, radiotherapy and a hysterectomy which led to sepsis. After so many setbacks, the couple entered 2024 full of hope, declaring: “This is our year now.” Tragically, just months later, their world was turned upside down. 

In October 2024, during a routine eye test at Specsavers in Glossop, Dave suffered a catastrophic bleed on the brain. Thanks to the quick action of the trained staff who recognised the signs, emergency services were called immediately, and he was rushed to Salford Royal Hospital where immediate surgery saved his life. 

It was an incredibly harrowing time. During his stay in intensive care, Dave’s ventilator was twice turned off as doctors worked desperately to manage brain damage and infection. Though his life was saved, he has been left with life-changing conditions: total loss of sight, paralysis down his left side, loss of bladder and bowel function, and the need for tube feeding. He has also lost many of his memories of life with Suzanne – something she describes as one of the hardest things to bear. 

After more than 11 months in Salford Royal, Dave was moved to the Devonshire Neuro-Rehabilitation Centre in Stockport. This specialist 15-bed unit supports people recovering from severe head injuries and neurological illnesses, but like many such centres, it struggles with limited resources. For Dave, a specially designed tilt chair – costing over £1,000 – is essential to allow him to shower safely. Suzanne is determined to raise funds not only for Dave’s needs but also to help the Devonshire Centre so other patients and families can benefit. 

Her determination is even more remarkable given that her best friend, Fiona, is also facing devastating illness. Diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) two years ago, Fiona has now deteriorated significantly. Once a vibrant, larger-than-life character, she is now immobile and in constant pain. She too had previously suffered breast cancer, the loss of her parents and other serious health issues. Supported by her husband Paul and their 11-year-old adopted daughter Amber, Fiona now requires round-the-clock care. Through it all, the two families have remained close, and Suzanne is determined to channel her energy into fundraising for both the Devonshire Centre and MND causes in tribute to her loved ones. 

When Maddie and Mike at the Empire heard Suzanne’s story, they immediately offered to host a fundraising event and Suzanne has been overwhelmed by their kindness. 

On Sunday 28th September, the Empire will present ‘An Afternoon of Fleetwood Mac’, featuring the incredible Jo Farrow. Jo’s live performances capture the timeless spirit of the iconic band, with classics including Dreams, Landslide, and Rhiannon promising an afternoon that will be both moving and uplifting. 

Doors will open at 12 noon and the show begins at 5pm. The bar area will be open to all with free entry throughout the day, while admission for the main performance is available in two packages: £10 for great seats with a welcome drink (Prosecco or a soft drink), or £29.99 for a home-cooked two-course dinner, great seats and a welcome drink. For tickets visit: https://empireglossop.co.uk/event/jo-farrow-is-fleetwood-mack/ 

The day will also include a raffle with generously donated prizes from local businesses, and one especially brave gesture: Suzanne’s sister Louraine has agreed to have her head shaved live on stage to raise extra money. Fiona, who is guest of honour, will also be attending. 

Suzanne is encouraging as many people as possible to support the cause, whether by attending the concert, buying raffle tickets or contributing via her JustGiving page. She has also been touched by the ongoing support of Specsavers staff, who not only helped save Dave’s life but continue to stand by the couple, donating and attending the fundraiser. 

To donate online, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/suzannejohnson-20