24 September 2024

Super fundraiser Sian raises over £1,000 for Pilgrims Hospices in memory of mum

On Sunday 1 September 2024, Sian Morgan from Ashford completed The Big Half, raising more than £1,000 for Pilgrims Hospices.

Sian fundraised in memory of her mum, Denise, who received Pilgrims care in 2022.


Sian and Denise

Sian felt so supported by Pilgrims during her mum’s illness that she wanted to give back.

She said: “Pilgrims regularly checked in, ensuring she was comfortable with the huge changes in her life that she was about to face. They fitted aids throughout our home to support her as her physical strength gradually worsened.

“In the days leading up to her passing, she got sick. We phoned Pilgrims for advice, and they informed our GP and requested a scan. On the morning of the scan, Mum struggled to get up. I called Pilgrims and they told me to phone the hospital. This became one of the last days we spent with Mum; without Pilgrims’ guidance, we wouldn’t have had that extra time with her before she passed.

“During this period when Mum was unwell, I was on my own caring for her whilst trying to balance working a full-time job as well as making time for myself. Pilgrims acted as a friend, offering advice and support.

“No one can prepare you to lose a parent. Life is short, and although I would’ve loved to spend the rest of my life with Mum, having those extra days with her made me eternally grateful – and it’s all thanks to Pilgrims for listening to me on the other end of that phone call.

Sian took on The Big Half on Sunday 1 September 2024.

Sian at The Big Half 2024

Her friends, family and local gym – Muscle Hut in Ashford – helped her to raise more than £1,000 for Pilgrims.

She added:

“I’m so grateful for the support Pilgrims provided throughout a very difficult time on our family. They were always within arm’s reach, and I’m extremely excited to be giving back to them in any way I can.”

You can see Sian’s fundraising journey and donate via her JustGiving page.

Pilgrims has a limited number of charity places in The Big Half 2025, you can secure your spot on the start line today, for free, with a pledge to raise at least £350 sponsorship for hospice care.

Want to follow in Sian’s footsteps?

Take on The Big Half for Pilgrims.


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.