Joe and Florence take on the Exmoor Challenge in aid of Pilgrims Hospices
Over the weekend of 20 – 22 April Joe aged 9 and Florence aged 12 Wrake took part in the inaugural Exmoor Expedition with The Children’s Challenge and raised nearly £800 in aid of Pilgrims Hospices.
The Children’s Challenge was set up as a vehicle for young people to raise money for a charity of their choice whist giving them with a genuine challenge in the form of a hike across Exmoor
There were 3 routes to choose from. Florence (and her mum Lisa) walked the 17km one and Joe the longest 21km route. It took 7 & 6 hours respectively starting at 8.30am. It certainly was a challenge for them all.
Lisa explained why they chose to support Pilgrims Hospices: “In 2011 Florence and Joe’s dad Run was diagnosed with lung cancer. Despite surgery and chemotherapy after 6 months his prognosis became terminal and his health deteriorated quickly. In a time of utter disbelief and confusion, Pilgrims Hospice Ashford became our sanctuary – providing practical, mental and spiritual support; it was a quiet, dignified and safe place for us to be together as a family in our final weeks.
“There was a garden for the children to play in, bright rooms with balconies, a living area and kitchen, doctors, nurses and a variety of therapists available around the clock. I still cannot believe this organisation is entirely free at point of use yet 77% of its funding comes from voluntary donations.”
When describing the challenge she said: “The weather was good bar for a few drops of rain towards the end, and the landscape is lovely – woodland, moorland, hills and valleys. It was nice to think about Run as we walked. It was the first time my children have ever done something like this and I am sure will want to do it again next year!”
Isabel Smith, Community Fundraising Officer said: “We are so grateful to Joe and Florence for undertaking such a challenge in aid of Pilgrims Hospices. The walk sounds amazing. The money they have raised will help Pilgrims to support another family like theirs who are facing a similar situation.
“If you would like to take part in a challenge in aid of Pilgrims Hospices please visit the events and challenges pageto see what is happening in your area. “
Each year Pilgrims supports hundreds of local people coping with a life limiting illness and their families. The charity offers a range of services: from end of life care given on its wards, to its new Wellbeing and Social Programme supporting people after they are diagnosed to live well and stay independent.
2nd May 2018
It’s A Knockout returns to Ramsgate
It’s amazing what Pilgrims Hospices supporters will do to raise funds for people who need care in their home towns in east Kent. On Sunday 20th May teams of friends, families and local businesses will take part in Pilgrims Hospices It’s A Knockout Challenge; pledging money and raising sponsorship to care for people with life limiting illnesses.
Regular supporters and sponsors of this fun filled event, Stagecoach South East, are hoping to see even more spectators cheering on the teams in Government Acre, Ramsgate. Joanne Howe, Stagecoach Operations Director said: “We have a long standing association with Pilgrims and we’re proud to sponsor It’s a Knockout
once again. The event is a real favourite with our staff, it’s a great team builder and a way for them to have fun whilst raising money for the Hospice.
“This year we’re entering teams from our Thanet and Folkestone depots, look out for some dazzling fancy dress!
“Many of our staff from across the region regularly enter and support Pilgrims’ events throughout the year which we encourage by covering all entry fees.”
If you’ve ever watched Total Wipe-out or it’s A Knockout you will know how hilarious this is to watch or be part of a team. The impressive games arena at Government Acre will be packed with colourful inflatable obstacles with teams which include Stagecoach Thanet, Currys from Westwood Cross, South Eastern Trains plus family teams and many more. They will all be competing for the winner’s trophy and hoping to avoid the dreaded wooden spoons.
The Stagecoach teams have now won this event twice and also been runners-up in the massively popular local event. This year their team will be made up from staff in various departments of the Stagecoach Company who are known as the Storm Loopers. The team mascot will be Stagecoach driver Garry Warren dressed as Darth Vader. Garry said: “I’m delighted to be their mascot this year in my Star Wars costume and hope everyone will encourage our team the Storm Loopers to gain a place on the winners’ podium again this year.
“We enjoy every minute of this charity fundraising event and are pleased to be here to support Pilgrims Hospices with the vital care they offer.”
Regular Pilgrims supporter Gary has also been dedicating some time to his running event, he will be taking part in a half marathon whilst visiting family in Ireland in June this year and hopes to be raising even more money and awareness to support Pilgrims Hospices.
We enjoy every minute of this charity fundraising event and are pleased to be here to support Pilgrims Hospices with the vital care they offer. Garry
Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager said: “We are delighted to have Stagecoach competing again this year and as a sponsor of this fantastic event.
“Thank you everyone who is getting involved again this year. You’re support and commitment is just wonderful. You’re taking part in a fantastic event and helping to support care for local people. We really couldn’t do it without you, thank you once again.”
We are delighted to have Stagecoach competing again this year and as a sponsor of this fantastic event. Karen
Last year this fun packed event raised over £14,000 to help support hospice care. There’s still a little time if you wish to put a team together. You will need 10 team members paying £25 per person, all team members must be aged 16 or over. If you are quick you can join up now by contacting [email protected] or call 01843 233 934.
Why not bring the family along between 11.30am – 3.30pm. There will a licensed bar and catering with fun activities for everyone.
If you or someone you know is coping with a life limiting illness and you think you may benefit from Pilgrims support, talk to your GP or Healthcare Professional about the options or click Wellbeing and Social Programme to read more about our programmes.
