Helen Edwards from Camber, East Sussex is taking on the Pilgrims Way Challenge on Saturday 21 June 2025.
She will hike 25km from Canterbury to Wye in memory of her auntie, Patsy Bolton, who received Pilgrims Hospices’ care in December 2024.
Patsy
Patsy worked in care and was always looking after others, so she understood the importance of being in a place of comfort at the end of life. When her own time came, she knew she wanted to be cared for in a hospice, and was offered a bed at the Ashford hospice.
Helen said: “Pilgrims made Patsy feel loved and cared for, so I wanted to give something back. She didn’t want a big fuss at her funeral, and asked for donations to Pilgrims in lieu of flowers. So when I saw the Pilgrims Way Challenge advertised, I signed up straight away. I’m hoping to raise as much money as I can to help make sure Pilgrims’ vital services continue to be available to other families, and to keep Patsy’s memory alive.”
Patsy’s daughter, Sarah Bolton, originally from Lydd, added:
“No one ever wants to receive a call telling you a precious loved one’s time has come, but from the moment those hospice doors opened, Pilgrims offered nothing but a positive and calming experience. The hospice was a place for our family to say goodbye to Mum, in comfort and with beautiful settings.
Sarah and Patsy
“All the staff were so kind and compassionate, not only to patients within their care, but to their family members as well. A special mention to Bernie, the Healthcare Assistant who made Mum’s final hours comfortable. No words or gratitude are enough to express the blessing we were afforded by Mum getting a bed at the hospice; Pilgrims’ work is priceless.
Helen on a training walk
“As a family, we want to support Pilgrims to ensure others can experience their special care, offering people dignity and kindness in their final days. In the darkest times, Pilgrims gave us light; the hospice is a place where love and compassion knows no bounds.”
The Pilgrims Way Challenge is perfect for people of all fitness levels; you’ll stroll through charming villages of oast houses and period cottages, surrounded by endless green fields. Rolling hillside views, quiet country lanes, historic buildings, and ancient woodlands all await you. The Pilgrims Way between Dover and Wye really does have it all.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
14th May 2025
Lucie hikes for hospice care in memory of husband, Grayham
Lucie Moxham from Littlestone, New Romney first took on the Pilgrims Way Challenge in 2024, raising an incredible £2,723.25 for Pilgrims Hospices. At the time, her husband, Grayham Moxham, was receiving the charity’s care; he was admitted to the Ashford hospice on 12 June 2024, just three days before the event.
On Saturday 21 June 2025, Lucie will take on the challenge again; hiking 55km in Grayham’s memory, she hopes to raise even more for local hospice care.
Grayham and Lucie on their wedding day
Grayham was diagnosed with myeloma, a type of blood cancer, in November 2017. After various treatments over several years, he was referred to Pilgrims Hospices, who checked in with him regularly and provided help and guidance through his illness.
Lucie said: “When things got tough, Pilgrims staff would visit Grayham at home, checking on his physical and mental health and wellbeing and making sure his pain levels were managed to ensure a good quality of life. As Grayham knew that his illness was incurable, he expressed his wish to be admitted to Pilgrims “when the time came”, as he always used to say that “in hospitals, staff are trained to keep people alive”, but at Pilgrims, you can go peacefully.
“His wish was granted in early June 2024, when his liver started to fail, and it became very clear that he had reached a point of no return.”
Lucie was signed up for the 55km Pilgrims Way Challenge on 15 June 2024. She was still able to take part, even though, by then, Grayham had been admitted to the Ashford hospice:
“To spend time with him, his daughter, Chloe, and his newborn grandson, Fred, I finished at the 35km mark and made my way to the hospice to see them all later that afternoon. I’m pleased to say that, thanks to a tremendous amount of support from people from all walks of life, I raised £2,723.25.”
Grayham Moxham 3
Grayham Moxham 1
Grayham Moxham 2
Grayham Moxham 4
L-R: Grayham with his dog, Tolley, his grandson, Fred, his daughter, Chloe, and Lucie
Lucie has signed up for the Pilgrims Way Challenge again, taking place on Saturday 21 June 2025. She plans to complete the 55km route from Dover to Wye via Canterbury, and has already raised over £600.
She added: “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has sponsored me; all donations, no matter how big or small, really make a difference. I know the wonderful work Pilgrims do, so anything I can do to help them keep providing their vital services will mean that people can continue benefitting from their expertise in the future.
Lucie taking on the Pilgrims Way Challenge 2024
“The service we received from Pilgrims was outstanding from the minute we arrived. It is very apparent that all the staff and volunteers are highly trained in end-of-life care and support. They make what is not an easy time easier by simply knowing exactly what to do and when, keeping you informed each step of the way, and lifting your spirits during their regular check-ins.
“I honestly don’t know what we would have done or how we would have coped without the help of Pilgrims, but one thing is for sure – without them, Grayham’s wish of going peacefully would not have been fulfilled… So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you very much for all you have done and are doing for many others every day.”
You can keep up to date with Lucie’s fundraising journey by visiting her JustGiving page.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
8th May 2025
Pilgrims Hospices celebrate 80 years since VE Day
On Thursday 8 May 2025, Pilgrims Hospices joined the nation in commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day – the momentous occasion that marked the end of war in Europe during World War II.
Across our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet, staff, patients and their families came together to remember, reflect and celebrate. Each hospice was beautifully decorated with red, white and blue bunting, creating a festive atmosphere that honoured the spirit of national unity and remembrance.
The day was filled with warmth and reflection. Celebration cakes were shared and enjoyed by all, prepared with care by our dedicated catering teams. The event brought people together in both joy and quiet contemplation, recognising the incredible sacrifices made by generations past and the peace and freedom that followed years of hardship and conflict.
VE Day 2025 3
VE Day 2025 4
VE Day 2025 1
Some patients and visitors shared personal memories or stories handed down through their families, while others took comfort in simply being part of a collective moment of gratitude. These connections, rooted in compassion and history, are at the heart of what Pilgrims Hospices stands for.
We are proud to create opportunities where community spirit and shared values shine through, even in the most challenging times. VE Day serves as a poignant reminder of resilience, peace, and the strength of the human spirit – values we uphold every day in our work.
A heartfelt thank you to all our staff and volunteers who made the day so special.
Lest we forget.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
9th April 2025
Sue’s story: Celebrating 15 years of Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge
Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge marks its 15th anniversary on Sunday 4 May 2025; in doing so, Pilgrims celebrate one of its most dedicated supporters, Sue Barrett-Austen from Ashford.
Sue has taken part in every event since the challenge began, in memory of loved ones and in appreciation of Pilgrims.
Sue completed the very first Cycle Challenge just 18 months after her best friend, Eve, received Pilgrims care.
Sue shared that “Eve was the most incredible lady. A real force of nature. She received such wonderful care in the time that she was in the hospice. But it wasn’t just her who received that care, nor just her family, but me as well, her friend.”
Sue set herself the challenge of riding an impressive 75 miles in Eve’s memory, to raise vital funds and awareness for the hospice.
She reminisced on a poignant moment of the day, saying “registration for that first Cycle Challenge was under the balcony of what had been her room. It really did feel like she was looking down on me!”
Sue’s late husband, Richard
Reflecting on how much the event has evolved since its inception, Sue told us that “it’s grown to something almost unrecognisable from those very first years. What remains unchanged is the faultless support, rest stops, planning and organisation. To see the growth in distances and numbers of participants is a magnificent testament to such a wonderful event.”
Sue shared what motivated her to keep coming back each year: “Having lost Eve, I wanted to do what I could to support the hospice and raise money.”
Her motivation grew further when her husband, Richard, was diagnosed with lung cancer and spent the last week of his life being cared for at Pilgrims.
Richard, Sue and Eve
Sue said: “Richard had supported my efforts in participating in the Cycle Challenge and, even when he was so poorly, insisted that I take part.
“We both were shown a phenomenal level of care, dignity and empathy. This is what motivates me to come back every year no matter what. It’s a little, tiny bit of payback. It is also very important to me as the event is always very close to, if not actually on, Richard’s birthday.”
Sue has special memories of Cycle Challenge over the years, and has met so many incredible people along the way. Whether at rest stops or during training rides, she has “met a whole group of wonderful people who have become good friends”, each with their own special reasons for taking on Cycle Challenge.
Incredibly, it was through this community that she met her now-husband, Jay.
Sue Barrett Austen And Jay Funnell 1
Sue Barrett Austen And Jay Funnell 2
Sue Barrett Austen And Jay Funnell 3
Sue and Jay taking part in Pilgrims Cycle Challenge
Sue’s story shows how Pilgrims not only cares for patients, but also loved ones into the future, by creating a supportive community that continues even after bereavement.
Sue is a super fundraiser, and has even become a Pilgrims volunteer, giving her time back to her local hospice. She has raised an astonishing £13,319 in memory of Eve and Richard, which has directly helped support others who need Pilgrims’ care.
Sue has her own fundraising tips and tricks to share: “Keep people up to date on your progress, training, your goals and why you are doing it. Share your achievements, photos, and any anecdotes!”
For anyone thinking about signing up to Cycle Challenge, Sue has one piece of advice – do it!
Whether you’re taking part in memory of a loved one, or are keen to support your local hospice, Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge really has it all, as Sue says:
“The atmosphere of excitement, nerves and camaraderie at the start. Seeing those motivational signs on the hills! All the volunteers and Pilgrims staff at the fantastically catered rest stops. The welcoming bell, the smiles, the hugs, the feeling of achievement at the end… I enjoy everything about the day!
“I am so very proud to have participated in Cycle Challenge every year. It means such a lot to me, more so than any other event. I intend to keep going in one way or another for as long as I am here. I am taking on the 100-mile route this year. I feel very humbled that I’m able to participate, and grateful for the support I have received from family, friends and my very dear Pilgrims community.”
If you’d like to support Pilgrims by taking on Cycle Challenge, visitpilgrimscyclechallenge.orgto get involved.
With six ride distances to choose from, there’s something for all fitness levels!
To celebrate the event’s 15th anniversary, a brand-new 15-mile route has been introduced to encourage even more participants to join in the fun. For this route only, entry has been opened to those aged 12 years and over, creating an exciting opportunity for families to cycle together, as well as being perfect for beginners or those seeking a shorter ride.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
5th March 2025
Richard’s super skydive raises £1,400 for Pilgrims Hospices in memory of loved ones
In July 2024, to celebrate his 60th birthday, Richard Graham from Broadstairs braved a skydive for Pilgrims Hospices.
He raised an incredible £1,400 for hospice care in east Kent in memory of family members who received the charity’s compassionate care.
Nicola on her wedding day with her mum, Jacqueline
Richard and his wife, Nicola Jenkins-Graham, experienced Pilgrims’ services first-hand after Nicola’s mum, Jacqueline Jenkins, was diagnosed with cancer. Jacqueline spent time in the Ashford hospice in 2023. Nicola’s auntie, Ann Shersby, was also cared for by Pilgrims in 2024.
Nicola said: “I’m so grateful to Pilgrims for looking after my dear mum and my auntie.
“When my mum was referred to Pilgrims, I was very scared. I remember the day the wonderful Pilgrims nurse walked through our door; how lucky we were to get someone to come and see us at home, I thought! She was so kind and understanding; although she broached subjects that were a little difficult to discuss, she held our hands throughout the whole journey.
“It was then I realised that Pilgrims were not just there to care for my mum, they were there for us as a family, too. Support and visits continued, and there was always a friendly and helpful person on the end of the phone if we had concerns, or to give us reassurance we were doing the right thing.
“On 21 August 2023, Mum wasn’t doing so well. With support from Pilgrims, we decided to move her into the hospice, where a bed was available. I arrived in such a state; Mum was comfortable and safe, but the worry had got to me. As we entered the hospice, a sense of calm came over me. Mum was taken to her room by the wonderful nurses, and the amazing volunteers ushered me to a chair and brought me a big mug of tea, a supply of biscuits and a box of tissues. Their support and kindness was so appreciated, as I was tired and in shock knowing that I’d left my dear Mum’s house with her for the last time.
“Mum’s room was decorated with care to make it a home away from home. She was wrapped up and comfy and looked so relaxed. There was a balcony and views over the beautiful garden. At the end of the corridor was a serene room for relatives with tea and coffee, comfy sofas, a TV and puzzles – so, when Mum was sleeping, I was able to rest and relax in peace and quiet. The volunteers regularly checked on me to make sure I had something to eat and offered me more tea. On one occasion, the lovely Cat Darkins, Lead Spiritual Chaplain, sat with me and brought me much comfort at a difficult time.
Nicola with her auntie, Ann
“Mum was in the hospice for 10 days; she was a fighter. I cannot thank the wonderful nurses, doctors and volunteers enough for making my mum’s last days peaceful. They treated her with so much dignity and respect, and I am eternally grateful.
“I was also supported by a bereavement counsellor who helped me on my grief journey and showed me the skills I’d need to continue my life in remembrance of my dear mum.
“I would tell anyone who may need Pilgrims services: Don’t be scared to reach out; they will be there to support you through dark times, and you will feel like you have warm angel wings comforting you.
“This is why Richard and I are doing what we can to support the hospice. He celebrated his 60th birthday in 2024 and decided to jump out of the plane for Pilgrims! I was so proud of him for being so brave and raising £1,400 for such a meaningful cause. Since then, we’ve raised even more and will continue to support Pilgrims in any way we can.”
Richard with Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager
Richard added:
“Pilgrims Hospices provided exceptional care and comfort during my mother-in-law’s illness, so I signed up for a skydive and set up a JustGiving Page to raise money for them. I was overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of everyone who donated.
“When the day arrived, the weather was glorious. My wife, mum and dad, daughter, her partner, and my two lovely grandsons came to Headcorn to support me. My friend, David, also booked to jump with me as moral support. I wasn’t sure what to expect; leading up to it, I was completely relaxed. I thought maybe the nerves would kick in, but I felt calm, probably more calm than my family. It was amazing looking down out of the plane before we jumped, and the feeling is incredible as you free fall, then calmness when the parachute opens, and you slowly float back down to the ground.
“Overall, it was an exhilarating experience that I will never forget. It was made even more meaningful with my family being there and being able to raise so much money for the wonderful Pilgrims Hospices. I am so grateful for everyone’s support and generosity.”
Richard Graham Skydive 9
Richard Graham Skydive 3
If you’d like to support Pilgrims by taking on a challenge for local hospice care, visit pilgrimshospices.org/events to find out how you can get involved.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
17th January 2025
New Pilgrims Hospices pop-up shop opens in Ashford
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest shop, Ashford Discount, located at Unit 38, County Square Shopping Centre in Ashford.
The new shop will complement the existing Ashford General and Furniture shops, offering an even broader shopping experience for customers.
Filled with quality clothing items priced under £5, shoppers can now snap up incredible bargains while supporting vital, compassionate care in the community and helping to reduce landfill waste at the same time. Additionally, students can enjoy a 10% discount on their purchases.
The new discount pop-up shop features a wide array of donated clothing items, with many priced under £5.
Sarah Lamberton, Pilgrims Retail Area Manager shared: “The shop will be brimming with bargains suitable for all ages and needs. Whether you’re looking to add some shirts or blouses to your work wardrobe, or searching for a budget-friendly party outfit, we invite you to come and explore our selection. There’s something for everyone!”
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Pilgrims Hospices’ new discount pop-up shop and discover fantastic deals on high-quality clothing items. Join us in supporting a great cause while enjoying great savings.
Make a donation; all donations, big or small, make a huge difference
Volunteer your time; volunteers play a crucial role in helping keep the hospice caring
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
