THE husband of a York woman who died a year ago of a chronic lung disease has vowed to continue fundraising to keep her memory alive.

Christian Klopsteg pledged to add to more than £6,500 he has so far raised for York Hospital since his wife, Anita Wilhelms, died aged only 29.

Anita suffered from lung fibrosis - a disease that causes scars on the lining of the lungs, reducing the tissue's ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. She received regular care in the hospital's lung ward.

She suffered from the illness for 11 years and died on October 15, 2005, following an infection.

Christian, of George Street, York, last week marked the first anniversary of Anita's death.

"I withdrew myself and just kept myself to myself really," he said. "I spoke to her parents in Germany and gave them a bit of encouragement because they still suffer very much.

"They are grieving much more than I do. They went to the cemetery to remember Anita and place some flowers. I was there in my heart and that was lovely.

"It is still very fresh. It is one year on, but it seems like yesterday."

Along with Julie Pierce and Yvonne Walker, two of Anita's close friends from York, Christian has set up The Anita Wilhelms Fund, Challenge For Life to help the hospital's Ward 34.

In April, the group donated a £4,000 non-invasive ventilator, which helps people suffering from respiratory diseases, and they now aim to fund a special £3,500 reclining chair for patients.

"I feel that life goes on," said Christian.

"Anita would have never wanted anybody to grieve on and on and go into their shell.

"I know that what I'm doing is the right thing to do. It gives me great pleasure. It is a very rewarding thing and it is beneficial for patients on Ward 34.

"When we presented the ventilator it was very heart-warming. The ward sister in charge really appreciated what we were doing."

The group raised about £1,300 from a charity night at The Mitre pub, in Shipton Road, York, and Christian said they were planning another event there later this year.