Sunflower Memories shone brightly at hospice remembrance event
In a heart-warming tribute, over 700 families gathered on Saturday 20 July 2024 at Pilgrims Hospices in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford for Sunflower Memories, the annual summer remembrance event.
This cherished local charity tradition welcomed families to find sunflower markers inscribed with the names of their loved ones, creating a serene and reflective atmosphere.
Guests were greeted with tea, cake, and strawberries with cream, served by dedicated Pilgrims volunteers in the charity’s Therapy Centres. These centres, typically used by the Pilgrims Wellbeing team for Living Well and creative art sessions, provided an inspiring backdrop for visitors to explore their creative sides.
Sunflower-themed arts and crafts activities, including bookmark-making and pebble painting, were enjoyed by attendees of all ages.
Pilgrims Hospices staff were on hand to engage with visitors, share in the celebration of cherished memories, and offer support to those experiencing grief.
Angie Stupple, Spiritual Care Chaplain at the Canterbury hospice, remarked: “The sun shone on Sunflower Day and it was beautiful, although a bittersweet time for those who came. There were tears and laughter as we remembered the ones they loved and lost, whether it was in recent days or years gone by. It was a joy and a privilege to chat with people in this relaxed atmosphere and lovely surroundings, and to remind them that Pilgrims is always here with friendship and support.”
The sun shone on Sunflower Day and it was beautiful, although a bittersweet time for those who came.
Angie Stupple, Pilgrims Hospices
In the weeks leading up to the event, Pilgrims Hospices reached out to the local community for support.
Ellie Cane, who leads the team putting on these events each year, expressed her gratitude, saying:
“Thank you to everyone who kindly supported these events, from those who donated for a sunflower marker, to those who gave their time to help welcome visitors, to the amazing sunflower plant growers and keen crafters. We simply couldn’t put on these events without you, and I’m so pleased we are able to provide this space for remembering and celebrating our loved ones each year.
“We are delighted to say this year’s Sunflower Memories appeal has so far raised in excess of £34,000, with donations still coming in. This just would not have been possible without the collective effort of our staff, volunteers, and our amazing local community.”
There is still time to donate and receive a dedicated sunflower memory marker in honour of a loved one. For more information, please contact Pilgrims Hospices Supporter Relations team by calling 01227 782 062 or via email at [email protected].
Pilgrims Hospices is a local charity dedicated to providing compassionate end-of-life care and support to patients and their families across East Kent. Through their various programs and events, they strive to create a supportive and caring environment for all those they serve.
22nd July 2024
Pilgrims Hospices needs your help: An urgent message from Helen Bennett, Chief Executive Officer
Hospices across the UK are facing financial challenges; Helen Bennett, Pilgrims Hospices Chief Executive Officer, shares an urgent message for our supporters.
Hello everyone,
I’m writing to you today to ask for your help. As many of you will be aware, hospices around the country are facing intense financial pressure; our annual grants from the NHS are not keeping up with rising costs, and although our local communities are doing their best to support us, it is not enough.
Hospice UK is urging us to write to our local MPs so that every MP hears about the importance of hospice care. Hospice UK’s aim is to ask MPs to meet with them so they can explain the financial challenges facing hospices every day. Their target is for 10,000 letters to be sent by members of the public explaining the growing funding crisis, and already over 7,800 letters have been sent.
Will you help Hospice UK reach and exceed their target by writing to your local MP? It only takes 30 seconds to do and could have a huge impact on the future sustainability of hospice services.
Send your local MP a letter in seconds using Hospice UK’s template – you can add your own words, too, if you wish
Forward this email to family/friends/networks who also support the provision of sustainable, high-quality palliative end-of-life care
Please lend your support to Hospice UK, who are working hard, on behalf of all hospices around the country, to show the new government that hospice care matters and to make sure they understand the changes required so that we can continue to provide compassionate care for every patient, every family, every time.
With very best wishes,
Helen Bennett, Chief Executive Officer, Pilgrims Hospices
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
Happy birthday to Pilgrims Hospices Deal shop! Celebrating 40 years of community support and compassion
Pilgrims Hospices Shop on Deal High Street is celebrating a remarkable milestone: 40 years of dedicated service to the community.
To mark this special occasion, the shop at 128 High Street will re-open on Thursday 25 July 2024 after a significant refurbishment.
Celebrating 40 years of community impact
Since opening its doors in 1984, Pilgrims Hospices Deal shop has been more than just a charity shop. Originally a grocery store, the shop has transformed into a cornerstone of the community, offering a friendly space to chat and browse through an eclectic range of quality clothing, traditional bric-a-brac, household items, and books.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Deal community for their unwavering support over the past 40 years. This milestone is a testament to the generosity and compassion of our supporters,” said Rebecca (Bex) Carden, the shop manager.
A mission of compassion
The primary mission of Pilgrims Hospices Deal shop is to support Pilgrims Hospices in providing care for patients with life-limiting illnesses.
The shop has become a beloved spot for locals, known for its warm atmosphere and the friendly faces of its dedicated volunteers.
Community impact
Over the years, many volunteers have brought energy and smiles to this special little shop. Notably, in the early 2000s, the National Association of Charity Shops recognised Deal hospice shop as the single most profitable charity shop among 6,192 evaluated nationwide. This achievement highlights the incredible support from the community and the hard work of its volunteers and staff.
Volunteer Linda Jackson shared a cherished photograph from July 2003 featuring her mother, Peggy Shirley, alongside Joy Olive, Dorothy Cordell, and herself.
Deal volunteers: Peggy Shirley, Joy Olive, Dorothy Cordell and Linda Jackson
Mrs. Shirley was an original volunteer when the shop first opened in July 1984, and her legacy continues to inspire the current team.
Exciting new look and celebrations
Bex Carden and Jenny Byrne, Pilgrims Retail team
The shop closed temporarily for refurbishment work during summer 2024, with the team working hard to unveil a fresh, updated look.
It is set to re-open on Thursday 25 July 2024.
“We’re all very excited as we get ready to re-open the shop. We have wonderful new shop fittings that will help to showcase the many items that the community kindly donates to us,” said Bex.
“We are so incredibly grateful for the generous support of our donors and customers over the years. Thank you to each and every one.”
Bex, who transitioned from a teaching career to manage the shop, added:
“My role with Pilgrims is really enjoyable. I know that the work I do here, along with my colleagues and volunteers, is making a real difference to those in need of end-of-life care.”
To celebrate the 40th anniversary, the shop will host an afternoon tea and cake event for past and present volunteers and staff. This will be a wonderful opportunity to honour those who have been part of the Pilgrims shop community over the years.
Your continued support is crucial in helping Pilgrims Hospices provide vital care to patients and their families.
You can also find and follow our Deal shop on Facebook and Instagram.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community and everyone involved in the shop’s success. We look forward to welcoming you back to our newly refurbished store and continuing our mission to support those in need of Pilgrims Hospices care, now and in the future.
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
18th July 2024
Get ready to glow at Thanet’s 8th annual 5k Colour Run!
Prepare for a burst of colour and excitement on Sunday October 6, as Pilgrims Hospices hosts the Thanet 5k Colour Run at Palm Bay Green, Cliftonville, Margate CT9 3NR.
This family-friendly 5k event promises to be an explosion of vibrant fun, where participants of all ages can enjoy an invigorating run or walk while being showered with brightly coloured powder.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Thanet’s spectacular seafront, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Since its inception, the Thanet 5k Colour Run has united friends, families, and the community in a joyous celebration of life, colour, and giving. Now in its 8th successful year, the event has welcomed over 3,000 participants and raised more than £225,000 for Pilgrims Hospices’ end-of-life care. Every step taken and every splash of colour helps support people in east Kent facing life-limiting illnesses.
The Thanet 5k Colour Run is not just a run; it’s a vibrant festival of fun and camaraderie. Picture this: Hundreds of participants all dressed in their white t-shirts, ready to be transformed into a moving rainbow as they navigate the picturesque coastal route. As you make your way through the 5k, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking coastal views and enveloped in clouds of coloured powder, creating unforgettable memories and picture-perfect moments.
“We’re back to sustainably brighten the coast!” says Pilgrims Hospices. “The Thanet 5k Colour Run is a fantastic way to enjoy a day out with loved ones while supporting a meaningful cause. The funds raised play a crucial role in allowing us to continue providing compassionate care to those who need it most.”
Whether you prefer to run, jog, or walk, the Thanet 5k Colour Run welcomes participants of all fitness levels. It’s a day of high-energy entertainment, laughter, and plenty of colour, making it the perfect way to spend a Sunday. Feel the electric atmosphere as you join hundreds of others, all united by the common goal of supporting Pilgrims Hospices.
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Hospices’ Community Fundraising Manager and event organiser, said: “I’m so proud of the supporters who have made this event such an amazing success over the past eight years. We have collectively travelled over 8,700 miles together. It’s a staggering achievement, and the money raised is making an incredible difference to the lives of those who need Pilgrims care right now, and to those who will need our support in the future as well.”
Getting involved is easy!
Gather your friends and family, and register now to be part of this incredible event. To find out more about the Thanet 5k Colour Run, visit pilgrimshospices.org/colourrun. On the day, you will be presented with a brilliant white t-shirt, a coloured powder sachet, and fun protective specs – then let the fun begin!
New for this year’s event, participants will receive an environmentally friendly wristband containing wildflower seeds. Take it home, plant it in your garden, and wait for another splash of colour that will remind you of the super fun day that you had supporting Pilgrims Hospices. And don’t forget your fabulous finishing medal to celebrate your wonderful achievement!
Don’t miss out on this spectacular event that blends fitness, fun, and philanthropy in a truly unique way. Let’s come together to celebrate, run, and support a worthy cause.
See you at Palm Bay Green on October 6 — ready, set, colour!
For more information, please contact Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Hospices Community Fundraising Manager:
Pilgrims Hospices is dedicated to providing high-quality care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses across east Kent. Our compassionate team works tirelessly to ensure patients and their families receive the best possible care, both in our hospices and within the community.
17th July 2024
Join us for a fun-filled Summer Fair at Sandyacres!
We are thrilled to invite you to our beloved Summer Fair, taking place at Sandyacres Sports & Social Club, Sandyhurst Lane on Sunday 28 July 2024, from 12pm to 5pm.
Gather your friends and family for an afternoon brimming with joy and laughter as our community comes together to support a great cause.
There’s something for everyone:
Stalls galore: Browse a variety of stalls offering crafts, cakes, plants, children’s toys, jewellery, jigsaws, and much more.
Live music: Sit back with an ice-cream and enjoy the band.
Exciting games: Challenge loved ones on inflatables, test your skills with Beat the Goalie, putting, and Tin Can Alley, and try out our new 50p games like Bee Lucky and Pick a Stick.
Chocolate tombola: Try your luck and win delicious chocolate treats.
You could also win amazing prizes in our Grand Prize Draw! Up for grabs are tickets to A New Day Festival, a Tidal King Inflatable paddle board and accessories, and a Gusbourne Sparkling Tasting Flight, along with other fantastic prizes.
Tickets are available for purchase in advance at Pilgrims Hospice Ashford or on the day of the fair.
At Pilgrims Hospices, we are committed to providing quality care and comfort to those living with life-limiting illnesses. By joining us at the fair, you’ll be helping us continue this vital work.
In preparation for the fair, we’re seeking your support!
We would greatly appreciate donations of unopened bottles (champagne to shampoo), chocolates, unwanted gifts, new craft items, and new toys and games. Our bottle and chocolate tombolas are always a hit, and your contributions make all the difference.
Donations can be dropped off at the collection box outside the lower reception at our Hythe Road hospice site (Ashford, TN24 0NE) or at The Beehive on North Street, Ashford.
Let’s come together, create wonderful memories, and support Pilgrims Hospices.
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
15th July 2024
Help Pilgrims Hospices raise £166,853 for new specialist beds
Pilgrims Hospices needs your support to reach £166,853 for the purchase of new specialist beds. These beds are vital to delivering the highest standard of care and comfort to the patients we look after in our wards.
Will you give our patients a good night’s sleep?
Comfort and care are at the heart of what we do at Pilgrims Hospices. Our journey began with just two beds at the Canterbury hospice in 1982, and today, we offer beds to over 900 people each year across our three hospices. Each ward accommodates 12 beds, and to ensure the best possible care, these beds need replacing every seven years.
Some of our beds are approaching the end of their lifespan. They have served us well, but maintaining them is becoming increasingly costly, and some are nearly beyond repair. With your help, we can provide our patients with the comfort they deserve and continue to care for them safely.
It was wonderful to accept the cheque from Steve and his brothers from the East Kent Freemasons. Thank you so much for supporting Pilgrims Hospices Bed Appeal with your generous donation.
Ellie Cane, Individual Giving Manager
We have already received an incredible response to our appeal and have managed to raise more than £137,719, and counting! This surpasses the deposit needed to place the order. Now, we need your help to reach the target.
A personal appeal
Steve Read, from the East Kent Freemasons:
“For many years, my wife and I have donated to Pilgrims Hospices, having had two close family members who needed their facilities. We received a letter in February asking for help with the Bed Appeal. Each of the three hospices at Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet needs 12 new beds every seven years at a current cost of £4,212 per bed. With 900 people using these beds annually, they are crucial. The beds have bedside controls for patients, their families, and staff to help find a comfortable position, and they can be lowered to the floor to reduce fall risks and allow nurses to work safely.”
Community support
The Valley of Elham Lodge No.6649 responded to this important appeal by donating £4,212 to purchase one bed. The cheque was presented by Peter Gagger, Rashid Bellini and Steve Read, to the Ashford hospice on April 26 2024.
Ellie Cane, Individual Giving Manager, added: “We’ve recently surpassed the £100,000 mark for the appeal, and we are absolutely thrilled with the responses from the generous public and local organisations. It was wonderful to accept the cheque from Steve and his brothers from the East Kent Freemasons. Thank you so much for supporting Pilgrims Hospices Bed Appeal with your generous donation.”
New beds will make a significant difference. They are fully adjustable, with bedside controls to help find a comfortable position, and can be lowered to reduce fall risks. Paired with specialist floor mats, they can even be made into doubles, allowing precious nights to be spent close together with family members. The side-rails can be lowered or removed, enabling loved ones to cuddle with each other.
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
