Stepping in Style: Hundreds hike the Pilgrims Way Challenge, raising thousands for Pilgrims Hospices!
On Saturday, 15 June 2024, Pilgrims Hospices hosted the annual Pilgrims Way Challenge, an event that gathered enthusiastic participation and support. Despite the weather misbehaving, spirits weren’t dampened as supporters bravely tackled the rain, wind and mud to put their best foot forward for local hospice care.
The turnout was remarkable, with over 700 supporters, one dinosaur and one teddy bear in a wheelbarrow stepping up to take on the mighty Pilgrims Way Challenge, and this year in reverse! We’re thrilled to announce that from early estimations, their collective effort has raised an impressive £95,000, with the figure still rising!
Participants had the option to choose from three scenic routes, each offering a unique challenge and breathtaking views. The event covered three distance options, including 55 kilometres from Dover to Wye via Canterbury. For those seeking a shorter journey, alternative routes included Canterbury to Wye at 25 kilometres and Dover to Canterbury at 35 kilometres. Every step taken by the participants helped raise vital funds for end-of-life care at Pilgrims Hospices.
The overwhelming positive feedback from participants highlighted the event’s success. Supporters praised the meticulous organisation and the dedication of the volunteers, “The marshals were incredible, guiding us every step of the way,” one participant noted. Another shared, “The volunteers’ enthusiasm and support made the challenge even more enjoyable.”
The heroes of the day were undoubtedly the volunteers, from crossing marshals, registration volunteers, refreshment teams and our signage volunteers, who also gave warming encouragement and thanks to everyone who took part in this important Pilgrims Hospices fundraising event. Their commitment ensured a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Billy Williams, Pilgrims EventsManager, expressed his gratitude, emphasising the importance of such events, “Events like these are a vital part of our fundraising activity,” he commented. “They offer a variety of ways for people to get involved and support Pilgrims in providing essential end-of-life care to the community of east Kent.”
The Pilgrims Way Challenge hike was not just a testament to the community’s generosity but also a celebration of the spirit and dedication of everyone who supports Pilgrims Hospices. Thank you to all who participated and contributed to making this event a resounding success.
If you’re looking to put your best foot forward for local hospice care, you can sign up for our next challenge event – the Folkestone Downs Challenge – on Saturday 31 August 2024.
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.
20th June 2024
Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital brings joy to Pilgrims Hospices Living Well therapy group
On 12 June 2024, the serene Therapy Centre at Pilgrims Hospices in Canterbury was filled with excitement and curiosity as we welcomed guest speaker Jo with some very special guests from Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital, which is based at Retreat into Wonderland in Herne Bay.
Our patients using the Wellbeing and Therapy Centre services were delighted to meet a variety of animals, including guinea pigs, an owl, and an impressively large tortoise named Dave.
The visit was part of our ongoing efforts to provide enriching and therapeutic experiences for our patients. Animals have a unique way of bringing comfort and joy, and this visit was no exception. The patients were particularly fascinated by the stories from the rescue centre in Herne Bay, where they specialise in the care and rehabilitation of hedgehogs.
The star of the day was undoubtedly Mumbles, a three-year-old barn owl whose majestic presence captivated everyone in the room. Alongside Mumbles were some adorable guinea pigs, Barry, Wednesday, and Morticia, who brought smiles and laughter with their antics.
Dave the tortoise was another highlight. His slow and steady demeanour provided a soothing presence, allowing patients to engage in gentle interaction. The combination of different animals offered a rich, multi-sensory experience that everyone enjoyed.
Our patients eagerly asked questions and shared their own stories about pets and wildlife. It was heart-warming to see how the presence of these animals sparked conversations and lifted spirits. Learning about the rescue work that is undertaken at Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital provided an additional layer of interest and connection.
This visit underscores the importance of animal-assisted therapy as part of the comprehensive care provided at Pilgrims Hospices. Such interactions are invaluable, not only for the joy they bring but also for the therapeutic benefits they offer. The smiles, the laughter, and the meaningful conversations that ensued are a testament to the positive impact of these visits.
Sharon Smith, Pilgrims Hospices Lead Wellbeing Practitioner, emphasises the value of group therapy: “This group allows members to offload and share experiences with like-minded people, find and make friends. It’s incredible to see how much our patients enjoy their weekly meetings. The connections and support they find here are essential to their overall wellbeing.”
We are grateful to Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital for their continued support and dedication to our patients. These moments of happiness and engagement are crucial for the well-being of our community, and we look forward to many more visits in the future.
For more information about Dottie’s Little Hog Hospital and their rescue work, please visit their Facebook page.
If you would like more information on services available at Pilgrims Hospices in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet, or within the east Kent community, please contact our team. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of both people and animals.
Supporting Wellbeing at Pilgrims Hospices
Our Wellbeing Programme is free if you live in east Kent and you have been diagnosed with an incurable illness. It aims to enhance your wellbeing – in mind and body. Services are also available for carers – be they friends or family – to support them with self-care, too.
If you talk to us sooner, we can do so much more. Pilgrims Therapy Centres are an important part of the care and support we provide to our patients and their families. Our new Wellbeing Menu offers a range of therapeutic, creative, social and educational groups and activities designed to support you to live well, in both mind and body, for as long as possible.
Our experienced team will work closely with you, and those who are important to you, to help you identify which programmes can help you now and in the future. We will also work alongside your GP and other professionals involved in your care.
Pilgrims Hospices Therapy Centre and Living Well group continue to create a nurturing environment where patients can find joy, comfort and support. The recent visit from Dottie’s Hedgehog Hotel is just one example of the enriching experiences we strive to provide, ensuring our patients live well in both mind and body.
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.
19th June 2024
Pilgrims Hospices Music and Media Sale draws enthusiastic crowd
On Saturday 18 May 2024, St. Peter’s Church Hall buzzed with activity as Pilgrims Hospices hosted a fantastic Music and Media Sale, attracting a large number of eager shoppers.
The event was a massive success, with numerous treasures found and many happy customers leaving with smiles and bags full of bargains.
The event, organised by Jonathan Gummer, Pilgrims’ E-commerce Manager, with his team, raised an impressive £3,025, all of which will support Pilgrims Hospices’ end-of-life care services.
The team expressed their delight at the outcome, stating, “The event was a pleasing success. We were thrilled by the turnout and the enthusiasm of attendees, many of whom have already expressed interest in seeing more events like this in the future.”
The sale featured a diverse range of pre-loved items, including DVDs, vinyl records, CDs, books, t-shirts, toys, and much more. Shoppers had the opportunity to purchase these items at affordable prices, making the event not only a fundraising triumph but also a cost-efficient shopping experience for all who attended.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this event such a wonderful success for Pilgrims Hospices. Your support enables us to continue providing essential care to those in need.
Pilgrims’ eBay team
One of the standout benefits of the sale was its emphasis on environmental sustainability. By promoting the purchase of pre-loved items, the event contributed to reducing waste and the demand for new products. This eco-friendly approach aligns with Pilgrims Hospices’ commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Shoppers were able to find unique items while also knowing that they were making a positive impact on the environment.
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Additionally, the event showcased the financial advantages of buying second-hand. With the rising costs of new media and merchandise, purchasing pre-loved items offers a more affordable alternative without compromising on quality. Many attendees were delighted to find rare and valuable items at a fraction of their original cost.
Volunteering played a crucial role in the success of the event. Pilgrims Hospices relies heavily on the dedication and support of its volunteers. The Music and Media Sale was no exception, with numerous volunteers helping to organise, set up, and manage the event. Their efforts were instrumental in ensuring everything ran smoothly and efficiently.
The success of the Music and Media Sale was a testament to the community’s support and the hard work of everyone involved. Pilgrims’ eBay team extended their heartfelt thanks to all who attended and contributed to the event: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this event such a wonderful success for Pilgrims Hospices. Your support enables us to continue providing essential care to those in need.”
Overall, the Pilgrims Hospices Music and Media Sale was not just a fundraising success but also an event that brought the community together, promoted sustainable shopping practices, and highlighted the importance of supporting local charities. With the positive feedback and the enthusiasm shown by attendees, there is a strong possibility that similar events will be organised in the future, further benefiting Pilgrims Hospices and the community it serves.
Date for your diary
The next Music and Media Sale is planned for Saturday 14 December 2024; keep an eye on Pilgrims Hospices’ website and social media for updates.
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.
5th June 2024
Lois-Jane celebrates fantastic volunteering journey with Pilgrims Hospices
Lois-Jane Thompson, an NHS worker from Folkestone, has been volunteering for Pilgrims Hospices since the charity’s earliest days.
After her father, John, died from cancer in 1975 aged 47, her mother, Sylvia, began home sitting for other local people to give families some much-needed respite; an initiative started by Ann Robertson, Pilgrims’ founder and lifetime president, and Christine Pledger, a founding fundraiser of the charity. At the same time, fundraising got underway to build the first hospice, and so began Lois-Jane’s lifelong volunteering journey.
I work full-time, I have a very busy family life, and I do only as much as I am happy with – but I also feel that the little I do is truly appreciated.
Lois-Jane
Lois-Jane said: “We didn’t have the benefit of a hospice when my father died, but we did have a Marie Curie nurse, and I’m so pleased that the hospices are now there for others.
“My mother was involved with monthly coffee mornings at the Holy Trinity Church in Folkestone and bucket collections at local shops and Eurotunnel. She sold Christmas Cards, daffodils and Christmas bells at various locations. Our family supported her when we could. When evening fundraising events began, my mother didn’t feel up to this, but my sister, Katy, and I jumped in wholeheartedly to help with registrations, and we haven’t looked back! Over the years, I’ve been involved with so many Pilgrims events – never missing a year! Even during the COVID-19 pandemic when events were held virtually, I did what I could to share and help publicise them.
Lois-Jane at the Cycle Challenge 2024
“Due to my own ill-health, I’m unable to walk, run or cycle to raise money for Pilgrims, which is why I help with registrations. And please don’t ask me to bake a cake!”
Lois-Jane enjoys every aspect of her role at Pilgrims events, meeting people and joining in with the bustling, uplifting energy of the day. She is often recognisable by her trademark pink cowboy hat.
She added: “I love checking people in and being there to welcome them back, congratulate them and put a medal around their neck; it’s truly rewarding. I always thank them for helping to raise funds by pushing themselves to run, walk or cycle, and they thank me back – but I say: “I do what I do because I can’t do what you do!” The money wouldn’t be raised if people didn’t take part in events, but without the people behind the scenes the events couldn’t be held – and so I feel we’re all doing our bit. I think it is testament to how well things are organised by the fundraising team that we see new and old faces year after year taking part, and I have made some good friends along the way.”
And what would Lois-Jane say to someone who is considering volunteering for Pilgrims?
“Please do it! There are so many different roles and there is no commitment beyond what you are happy to do, be it an hour holding a collecting bucket or spending all day at an event. There are also various roles available within the hospices and local shops. I work full-time, I have a very busy family life, and I do only as much as I am happy with – but I also feel that the little I do is truly appreciated.”
Volunteers’ Week celebrates the amazing contributions volunteers make to communities across the UK. The celebration starts on the first Monday in June every year. It’s a chance to recognise, celebrate and thank the UK’s incredible volunteers for all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector, and society as a whole.
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 support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
4th June 2024
Celebrating volunteer Dr Peter Biggs, a Trustee and a pillar of support at Pilgrims Hospices
Volunteers’ Week, celebrated between 3 and 9 of June 2024, serves as a poignant reminder of the immeasurable value volunteers bring to various organisations, charities and communities. It’s a time to express gratitude for their tireless efforts and to raise awareness about the transformative power of volunteering.
Dr Peter Biggs, a retired GP with an illustrious career spanning 42 years in Canterbury, found himself drawn to the mission of Pilgrims Hospices after witnessing the vital role they played in providing specialised care to terminally ill patients. Reflecting on his journey, Peter shares, “I saw the growing work at the hospice over the years. Without the special care, terminal care would have been very much secondary. I wanted to continue to support a service that I very much valued.”
His path to volunteering with Pilgrims Hospices began serendipitously, as he recalls, “I was looking for something where I could use my experience in a way that I thought would be valuable for people, and the hospice came along just at the right time.” Encouraged by his wife to explore volunteering opportunities, Peter found himself drawn to the role of trustee when Pilgrims Hospices put out a call for applicants.
I saw the growing work at the hospice over the years. Without the special care, terminal care would have been very much secondary. I wanted to continue to support a service that I very much valued.
Dr Peter Biggs
As a trustee, Peter assumes a multifaceted role, overseeing, supporting, and advocating for the patients, their families, and the broader community. Contrary to common misconceptions, trusteeship entails more than just governance; it involves offering guidance and support to the executive team while championing the interests of the community.
One aspect that sets Pilgrims Hospices apart is its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, evident not only in its volunteer base but also in its board of trustees. Peter highlights the diverse expertise among the trustees, celebrating the depth of understanding it brings to addressing various issues, a model he believes other organisations could learn from.
In his role, Peter has witnessed first-hand the profound impact of Pilgrims Hospices’ volunteer-driven initiatives. From fundraising events to community outreach programs, he has seen the transformative power of volunteerism in action. “The team at Pilgrims couldn’t do the valuable work they do, without the support of our amazing volunteers,” he emphasises.
With a wide variety of volunteering opportunities, if you want to do somethingincredibly rewarding and valuable, Pilgrims Hospices is a good place to be.
Dr Peter Biggs
“I’ve found Pilgrims to be a passionate supportive community of staff, volunteers, and one that is welcoming to all. With a wide variety of volunteering opportunities, if you want to do somethingincredibly rewarding and valuable, Pilgrims Hospices is a good place to be.
“I’m delighted to say I took part in the Pilgrims Golf Day fundraiser last year, and thrilled to be on the winning team, this year my wife and I will be taking part in the Pilgrims Way Challenge walk. As part of my role as a trustee, I’ve also visited a number of the hospice shops and experienced the wonderful warmth of the volunteers that work within them.”
Peter’s journey as a volunteer at Pilgrims Hospices has been one of profound fulfilment and growth. Through his experiences, Peter underscores the importance of open dialogue surrounding end-of-life care and the need for continued support for hospice services.
This Volunteers’ Week, let us join together in celebrating individuals like Dr Peter Biggs, whose selfless dedication and unwavering commitment enrich the lives of those they serve. In honouring their contributions, we acknowledge the transformative power of volunteering and the profound difference it makes in our communities.
Volunteers’ Week celebrates the amazing contributions volunteers make to communities across the UK. The celebration starts on the first Monday in June every year. It’s a chance to recognise, celebrate and thank the UK’s incredible volunteers for all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector, and society as a whole.
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 support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
TJC Renewables Ltd & TJC Fabrications Ltd stands with Pilgrims Hospices in heartfelt support
TJC Renewables Ltd. & TJC Fabrications Ltd., a family-owned business working in the engineering, fabrication, and offshore sectors since 2010 and based in Ramsgate, proudly announce their commitment to supporting Pilgrims Hospices through a generous donation.
The decision to contribute to Pilgrims Hospices stems from a deeply personal experience that underscores the importance of hospice care in the community.
For the family behind TJC – Brian and Kate Dale, along with their daughter Kelly Waller and sons Bradley and Arron – the support provided by Pilgrims Hospices during a challenging time was invaluable. The family’s matriarch, Jenny, was diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer in 2022 at the age of 79. Despite the difficult diagnosis, Jenny spent her final days at home, surrounded by loved ones, thanks to the compassionate care provided by the Pilgrims Hospices community team.
Reflecting on their experience, Kelly shared: “The care provided by Pilgrims Hospices community team was a beacon of light during a dark time for our family. Their support not only eased Jenny’s pain but also provided comfort and guidance to all of us.” Jenny’s daughter, Kate, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the importance of the hospice team’s presence and assistance in managing Jenny’s symptoms and medication.
Throughout Jenny’s illness, the Pilgrims team ensured that she was comfortable and supported, allowing the family to cherish their time together. Despite the challenges they faced; the family found solace in the memories they created with Jenny, particularly during the holiday season, a time traditionally spent surrounded by loved ones, and the special relationship she had with so many of the employees and customers of TJC. Jenny passed away at the family home in Sarre on 20 October 2022.
The care provided by Pilgrims Hospices community team was a beacon of light during a dark time for our family.
Kelly Waller
In honour of Jenny’s memory and the exceptional care she received from Pilgrims Hospices, TJC Renewables organised a Christmas raffle to raise funds in support of the charity. The overwhelming generosity of friends, family, and community members resulted in a significant donation of £1,500 in January, underscoring the impact of Jenny’s story and the importance of supporting charities like Pilgrims Hospices.
As they continue to navigate their grief, the family remains grateful for the support they received from Pilgrims Hospices and is committed to giving back to ensure that other families facing similar challenges can receive the same level of care and compassion.
For more information about how local businesses can support Pilgrims Hospices, please email [email protected].
If you would like more information on the care provided by the hospices, please visit pilgrimshospices.org.
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.