Pilgrims Hospices Ashford Christmas Fair delights hundreds and raises over £13,000
Pilgrims Hospices Ashford hosted a heartwarming Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 25th, at the Grosvenor Hall in Ashford. The festive extravaganza drew in hundreds of visitors who came together to embrace the spirit of the season while supporting a noble cause.
Attendees were treated to a delightful array of festive activities, creating a magical atmosphere for families and friends alike. Children revelled in the joyous occasion with an abundance of toys and games, while adults savoured the seasonal delights of coffee and mince pies.
Santa Claus made a special appearance, spreading cheer and joy among the attendees and adding an extra layer of magic to the event. The Christmas Fair also provided a unique shopping experience, with an opportunity for patrons to purchase festive crafts and gifts, making it the perfect destination to kickstart the holiday season.
Thank you to everyone who came along on the day. Our volunteers were splendid; we could not have achieved this without them.
Louise – Pilgrims
The event, held at the Grosvenor Hall in Ashford, not only brought the community together but also raised a remarkable sum of over £13,000. The funds generated during the fair will contribute to the invaluable work of Pilgrims Hospices in providing compassionate care and support to those facing life-limiting illnesses.
Louise Newman, Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager, expressed her gratitude, stating: “We had such a brilliant time, and everyone was so supportive. Thank you to everyone who came along on the day. Our volunteers were splendid; we could not have achieved this without them.”
Pilgrims Hospices extends heartfelt appreciation to the community, volunteers, and sponsors who contributed to the success of the Christmas Fair, making it a memorable and impactful event. The support received will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of those in need during the holiday season and beyond.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
Jenni Burnes has a touching and inspirational story that highlights her journey with Pilgrims Hospices
Jenni Burnes is 44 years old and a Pilgrims Hospices patient who received care on the ward for pain management. After a spell of treatment and support, she is now at home and being supported by the Pilgrims Wellbeing team at the hospice Therapy Centre. As part of her on-going support, Jenni regularly attends the Time to Create groups. Jenni welcomed me into her home in Hawkinge, which she shares with her loving husband, Adrian, and two adorable spaniel dogs, Bre and Briar. Their journey together has spanned 17 years, including 14 years of marriage. Having recently moved to a home that is better suited to her mobility, Jenni has a newfound independence in their bungalow space, which brings them much happiness.
Jenni enjoying some fresh air and sunshine
Jenni’s life took a challenging turn when she battled breast cancer, but the good news is she’s received the all-clear. Still, she faces the ongoing struggle of dealing with serious health conditions, including cancer, liver disease, and a history of bulimia.
Jenni’s experience at Pilgrims Hospices has been eye-opening. She didn’t know what to expect, but she discovered a warm and caring community where everyone, from the nurses to the volunteers, made her feel at home. She formed bonds with other patients and their families and values the family atmosphere at the hospice.
I’ve developed friendships I would never have expected
Jenni
“Dr. Pia took time to explain to me and my husband how Pilgrims would support my care; Dr. Suman helped with my pain management; and I soon became much stronger than I’d been in quite some time. After a short spell on the hospice ward, I was able to return home and was offered the opportunity to join the Time to Create group once a week to support my wellbeing.” Jenni told me.
She said: “My introduction to the group came with a sense of nervousness, as I wasn’t sure what to expect and didn’t consider myself a creative person. However, I quickly realised the positive impact of my engagement with Pilgrims. The wellbeing groups, especially the “Time to Create” sessions, have become an essential part of my life. I really appreciate the camaraderie, the banter, and the social element of these gatherings, as well as the opportunity to connect with others who understand my journey.”
I can see the benefit of the group is helping Jenni to make good choices and enjoy life in every moment. We offer flexibility within our wellbeing services to allow access to the right support at the time when it’s most needed. These therapeutic sessions help to manage symptoms and enhance wellbeing. It gives people opportunities to connect with other people and share experiences in a caring and friendly environment.
Mel – Pilgrims Wellbeing Practitioner
Since moving to their new home and feeling stronger with Pilgrims support, Jenni has embraced healthier lifestyle choices to boost her wellbeing, and it’s making a positive difference in her life. Despite her health challenges, Jenni is determined to live her life fully and independently. She even takes herself on outings via the local bus, which helps her regain a sense of normality.
Jenni had a diverse work history, including roles at Eurotunnel, a kitchen company, a doctor’s surgery, and even as a phlebotomist, which she loved. She told me that she particularly cherished her time working with patients and looks forward to the groups where she feels she can be a support to other service users too.
Jenni with visitor Kerry King who joined Jenni for a a chat
Jenni stated: “My cousin Lou brings me to the group sessions; it initially helped boost my confidence. She also takes part in the activities and enjoys the company of the group members too. Lou is my rock, and I love her support. I couldn’t do this without her.
“At the group sessions, I’ve developed friendships I would never have expected and enjoyed the creative activities; we often laugh so much, and I really look forward to them.”
Jenni’s husband, Adrian, has been a pillar of support, and she continues to fight her health battles with resilience. The care team at Pilgrims has made a significant difference by providing targeted medication, leading to a better quality of life.
Jenni is grateful for the support she has received from Pilgrims and encourages others to put their trust in the hospice’s services. She recognises that while life may present challenges, every day brings opportunities to conquer something, no matter how small.
In conclusion, Jenni Burnes’ story is a testament to her strength, resilience, and the positive impact of Pilgrims Hospices in her life.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
In a ground-breaking collaboration, world-renowned British photographer Rankin has partnered with Hospice UK to present the #IRemember exhibition at the Ann Robertson Centre, Canterbury. Scheduled from December 2–6, this poignant collection of portraits coincides with National Grief Awareness Week, offering a unique opportunity to engage in open conversations about loss, memory, and the human experience.
Rankin, celebrated for his work at the cultural forefront, has captured iconic figures like Madonna, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Kate Moss, Kendall Jenner, and Queen Elizabeth II through his lens. However, his latest endeavour takes a deeply personal turn, as he collaborates with Hospice UK to create a series of eight portraits exploring the intricacies of grief. Each portrait weaves together the images of those who have passed, with the cherished memories of their loved ones, providing a creative exploration of diverse bereavement experiences.
RubinaKevin and Jack
The Ann Robertson Centre, Pilgrims Hospices Education and Training Centre, will host the exhibition, displaying the portraits alongside the connecting stories that give them life. Rankin, reflecting on the power of photography in dealing with death, states: “Photographs are like time capsules, which means photography can be very powerful in dealing with death and loss.” He emphasises the emotional connection photography provides across time and space, enabling individuals to keep their loved ones alive in memory.
Throughout Grief Awareness Week, the #IRemember exhibition will be accessible to Pilgrims Hospices service users, staff, and volunteers as part of Pilgrims Stepping Stones bereavement services. This initiative aims to foster dialogue and reflection on the universal topic of grief.
Helen Bennett, CEO of Pilgrims Hospices, expresses her enthusiasm for the event, stating: “We are delighted to be hosting this wonderful exhibition at the Ann Robertson Centre, Canterbury. It is an amazing opportunity to showcase the work of a world-renowned artist while also encouraging our local community to open up the conversation around death, dying, and grief.”
The exhibition invites viewers to explore the multifaceted aspects of grief and loss, providing a space for connection with the raw and emotional narratives of each individual featured. Helen encourages the local community to engage with the exhibition, saying: “We hope many people will come and experience this wonderful opportunity to view such poignant images.”
Photographs are like time capsules, which means photography can be very powerful in dealing with death and loss
Don’t miss this special opportunity to witness and discuss an important collection of real-life portraits and stories, capturing the essence of death and the enduring memories of loved ones left behind.
Pilgrims Hospices cares for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community, and in their inpatient units, as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
14th November 2023
Pilgrims promotes inclusivity and compassionate care through active participation in Inter Faith Week 2023
Pilgrims Hospices will join the thousands of people and organisations participating in Inter Faith Week this year. Inter Faith Week 12–19 November 2023 is a fantastic opportunity to promote dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among various faith and belief groups. It’s heartening to see that a diverse range of entities, including faith and belief communities, interfaith organisations, voluntary organisations, schools, colleges, universities, youth groups, workplace chaplaincies, and more, are coming together to celebrate and highlight the importance of religious and cultural diversity.
Inter Faith Week 12 – 19 November
By participating in Inter Faith Week, Pilgrims Hospices can contribute to this important movement in several ways:
Bishop Rose with Rev Cat Darkins
Rev’d. Cat Darkins, Pilgrims Hospices Lead Spiritual Care Chaplain, said: “By showcasing inclusivity during Inter Faith Week, we are demonstrating that Pilgrims Hospices are open and inclusive to people of all faiths and beliefs and that the charity is committed to providing compassionate care to everyone, regardless of their background.
“We are using this week as an opportunity to educate staff, volunteers, and the community about the diverse spiritual and cultural needs of patients and how to provide respectful and sensitive care.”
Pilgrims Hospices are keen to foster connections and interact with representatives from different faith and belief communities to build connections and mutual understanding, potentially paving the way for future collaborations.
Inter Faith Week is a fantastic opportunity for people of all faiths and beliefs to: mix and lean in neighbourhoods, workplaces, schools, universities, and other contexts; visit places of worship and their neighbours and find out why their faith matters to them; get past stereotypes and misunderstandings and increase religious literacy; celebrate; dialogue; and volunteer together to help their local community.”
Canon Hilary Barber and Nardendra Wagela
We seek to engage with the local community and participate in or host events that encourage understanding and unity, thus strengthening the bonds between the hospice and the community.
Revd Angie Stupple
Inter Faith Week begins each year on Remembrance Sunday, encouraging us to remember together the service of people with different backgrounds. We wish to emphasise a message of peace and unity, especially in the context of Remembrance Sunday, to remember those who served and to highlight the importance of working together for a harmonious society.
Inter Faith Week is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, promote dialogue, and emphasise the common values and principles shared by people of different faiths and beliefs. Pilgrims Hospices’ participation in this event aligns with the hospice’s mission of providing compassionate care and support to all individuals, regardless of their background, during their time of need.
Each year, Pilgrims support thousands 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 Wellbeing Programme, which supports people after they are diagnosed to live well and stay independent.
13th November 2023
Celebrating Diwali as part of Inter Faith Week
Celebrating Diwali with patients at the Wellbeing Centre as part of Inter Faith Week activities is a wonderful way to promote inclusion and cultural diversity. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated by millions of people around the world.
Pilgrims Hospices Wellbeing teams made the Diwali celebrations part of their Time to Create group sessions. Those attending took part in traditional Diwali artwork, creating colourful paintings using designs associated with the festival. Everyone was encouraged to express themselves through these creative activities.
Amie Tuffs, Pilgrims Hospices Wellbeing Practitioner, said: “Our Time to Create groups are a really lovely way of getting our patients together in a relaxing environment. We talk about all sorts of topics, including how we’re feeling and what’s happening in our lives, while trying some new creatives that perhaps group members haven’t tried before. Our Diwali sessions allowed the groups to talk about the significance of the festival and the symbolic gesture of dispelling darkness and welcoming light into our lives. We had great fun creating our own special celebration of light pictures that will be displayed around the hospices for visitors, staff, and volunteers to appreciate the artwork.”
The Wellbeing team captured the moments through photography in order to remember this special celebration.
By celebrating Diwali in this way, Pilgrims Hospices created a warm and inclusive environment where patients from various backgrounds, could share in the joy and cultural richness of this festival. It’s a beautiful way to bring people together and provide a sense of belonging during their time at the hospice.
Namaste!
Would you like to find out more about Pilgrims Wellbeing Programmes? They are free if you live in east Kent and if you have been diagnosed with an incurable illness. The sessions aim to enhance your wellbeing, both in mind and body. Services are also available for caregivers, be they friends or family, to support them with self-care too.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
Win cash prizes and make a difference with Pilgrims Hospices’ Fun Festive Superdraw 2023
By participating in Pilgrims Hospices’ Fun Festive Superdraw 2023, you have the chance to win exciting cash prizes, in time for some extra Christmas treats, while contributing to vital hospice care in east Kent.
Did you know? All proceeds from the Superdraw directly support our patients, enabling them to manage symptoms, such as pain, and access a wide range of services and facilities. It empowers them to spend quality time with their loved ones, live as normally as possible for as long as they can, and create cherished memories in their own way.
Charlotte Brigden, Pilgrims Research Facilitator
Every £1 ticket purchased not only helps patients in our care on the hospice wards and in their homes, but also supports innovative and vital research to help ensure we are providing the best care that we can. Led by Dr. Andrew Thorns and supported by Charlotte Brigden, Pilgrims Research Facilitator, this research strives for a greater understanding of the best end-of-life care and treatments and how to treat patients more effectively. Charlotte expressed her gratitude to Superdraw players for their invaluable contributions to care and resources, all while having a chance to win some lovely Christmas cash prizes!
Recently, the hospice provided valuable research into a treatment for managing symptoms of fatigue and also research on care provided in the home out of hours. Such important work is only possible with the continued support of Pilgrims Lottery players and supporters who purchase the special Fun Festive Superdraw tickets.
Pilgrims Hospices staff join in with Superdraw fun
Participating in the Superdraw offers the opportunity to win incredible prizes, including: First Prize: £2,000; Second Prize: £1,000; and Third Prize: £500. You can purchase tickets at the hospices’ receptions or call the Pilgrims Lottery ticket hotline at 01227 379741.
Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent extends its heartfelt gratitude for your generous support. Your contributions make a significant difference in the lives of those who rely on our care.
Please take part in the Fun Festive Superdraw 2023; you will be making a difference in the lives of those in need. while also having the chance to win exciting prizes!
Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent is dedicated to enhancing its services to better serve the local community. Our vision is to provide comprehensive support for individuals with terminal illnesses and their families, helping them live well in mind and body until their very last moments. By purchasing tickets for the Fun Festive Superdraw 2023, you are joining all those dedicated to ensuring that Pilgrims Hospices can provide expert care and guidance every step of the way. Your support is crucial to making this vision a reality.
Each year, Pilgrims support thousands 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 Wellbeing Programme, which supports people after they are diagnosed to live well and stay independent.
