Michael Taylor was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2015. Initially given a 5-year prognosis, he exceeded this, and continues to live well at home in Herne Bay with support from Pilgrims Hospices.
Born in Bromley, Michael was raised by his mother, Winifred, and many doting aunts and uncles. His father, John James Taylor, was a firefighter, but sadly died aged 28, when Michael was just three days old.
After marrying his wife, Brenda, the couple moved to Faversham and started their own family, welcoming three children – Helen, Paul, who sadly died of cot death aged 14 months, and Rachel – and now have five grandchildren.
Michael and Brenda on their 50th wedding anniversary
Michael was referred to Pilgrims in 2021 and attended Time to Create, therapeutic art groups that run at the Therapy Centres on each hospice site, offering relief from the challenges of living with a terminal illness. By then, Brenda had Alzheimer’s disease, but she was able to accompany Michael to the groups.
Michael said: “The Pilgrims team was extremely good; they sat and chatted with Brenda while I got on and did my own thing. I enjoyed it very much.
“The food was so lovely too, beautiful! Especially the cheese omelettes. We attended Time to Create for quite a long time, but it eventually got too much for Brenda, so I stopped for a few years.”
Michael enjoyed a long career as an architectural technician. Initially working in London and Kent, he eventually ran his own practice – Rowlett and Taylor – in Broadstairs with his colleague, Malcolm. He continued to draw, paint and build models into his retirement, so Time to Create appealed to his natural artistic flair. He credits Pilgrims with getting him back into his creative hobbies:
“After Brenda went into a nursing home, I had a phone call from Elizabeth in the Pilgrims Wellbeing team asking if I’d like to re-join Time to Create.
“Pilgrims provided a taxi for me, which was amazing. I hadn’t done any art or drawing, hadn’t touched a paintbrush or pencil or anything, in those two years since I’d stopped going. That phone call from Elizabeth got me right back into it; making art at Pilgrims again got me completely turned around.
“I’m a bit of a loner, so I had just been sitting in a chair for two years doing absolutely nothing, and now I can’t stop painting and drawing!”
Michael Taylor Artwork 5
Michael Taylor Artwork 6
Michael’s artwork
Michael has been so well supported that he no longer feels he needs to attend the hospice Wellbeing groups, as Pilgrims has helped enable him to live comfortably at home. He does his own cooking, and has carers and a cleaner for extra support. He also enjoys visits from his children and grandchildren.
Michael now plans to attend his local Age UK group, which meets on Tuesdays, offering the chance to socialise with others and enjoy lunch together.
Michael continues to paint and draw, which is helping him to live as well and independently as possible. He recently sketched Herne Bay train station for his local model railway club, and is also a talented pianist; a church organist for 60 years, he now plays for his own pleasure.
Michael Taylor Artwork 7
Michael Taylor Artwork 3
Michael Taylor Artwork 2
Michael Taylor Artwork 1
Michael’s artwork
Although Michael doesn’t feel he needs Pilgrims at the moment, he knows he can access their support in the future:
“I’m not worried about death (can’t say I’m looking forward to it or wishing it was tomorrow!), but it doesn’t bother me because I have a strong Christian faith. I feel at ease, because if my health deteriorates, I can contact the hospice and go back into their care. Everybody I’ve met at Pilgrims is so kind – from the receptionists, to the catering and care teams, and everyone in between. They always make the time to sit and talk to me, even if they’re rushed off their feet.
“I would say to anybody who is in my situation – who is lonely and has lost interest – to ask Pilgrims about their Wellbeing groups, because I have found them really worthwhile. They get you out of yourself, and I’m so grateful to Pilgrims for inviting me to get involved.”
For more information on Pilgrims Hospices’ Wellbeing Programme:
Call the Pilgrims Hospices Advice Line on 01233 504 133
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.
21st September 2025
Canterbury hospice modernisation
In March 2025, we announced an important development for Pilgrims Hospices – our plans to modernise the Canterbury site at London Road.
This initiative marks a significant milestone in our journey to secure the future of hospice care in east Kent.
As our Chief Executive, Helen Bennett, shared:
“Whilst the care provided is second to none, we want and need to provide more modern facilities for all our patients and their loved ones. Our current Canterbury site buildings are ageing and disconnected, making day-to-day work more difficult and limiting the spaces where teams can collaborate and support one another.
“Modernising London Road will not only transform our current facilities, it will also ensure that Pilgrims Hospices’ extraordinary legacy continues to thrive on the very site where our founder, Ann Robertson, began her vision over 40 years ago.”
Since our announcement, we’ve already made encouraging progress. We’ve appointed a talented team of architects and construction professionals, who have experience of designing and building hospices; we’ve engaged our dedicated staff in a series of workshops to help shape the vision for the future. These sessions have been invaluable in ensuring that the voices of those who deliver care every day are central to the development of our plans.
We’ve also taken the first formal steps by submitting initial ideas to Canterbury City Council. These early proposals reflect our commitment to creating a space that is welcoming, sustainable, and fit for the future needs of our community.
A lasting impact for our community
The modernisation of our Canterbury site is not just about bricks and mortar – it’s about people, in particular about ensuring that our patients and their families continue to receive compassionate, expert care in surroundings that are comfortable and feel like home.
By creating a more accessible and inclusive environment, our aim is to strengthen our connections with our local community, volunteers, healthcare professionals, and supporters.
Our mission is to make a difference to the lives of individuals in east Kent who are approaching the end of their life. We believe that modernising our Canterbury hospice will do just that, ensuring that everyone who needs us has access to specialist end-of-life care. The modernisation of our Canterbury site is a vital step toward making that vision a reality.
As our plans continue to evolve, we will share them with you. We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of everyone in our local community, and we look forward to working together to ensure that Pilgrims Hospices is here for every patient, every family, every time they need us.
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.
2nd September 2025
Step back in time at Pilgrims Vintage and Retro Shop – Now open Sundays!
Tucked away on historic Burgate, just off Canterbury High Street and only steps from the Cathedral gates, Pilgrims Hospices’ Vintage and Retro Shop is a treasure trove of nostalgia, style, and sustainable shopping.
Whether you’re a local, a student, or visiting from across the globe, this charming store is the perfect place to discover something truly special – and now, with extended opening hours including Sundays, there’s even more time to explore.
From 1940s tea dresses to 1980s statement jackets, quirky bric-a-brac to elegant vintage petticoats, the shop is packed with hand-picked gems. Customers range from locals seeking a nostalgic piece from their past, to college and university students creating unique, modern looks.
Manager Nigel has spotted a new favourite trend:
“Petticoats with Converse is quite the look at the moment,” he says.
“The young ladies love pairing them with a denim jacket and boots – it’s vintage meets street style!”
Canterbury Vintage 2
Canterbury Vintage 3
Canterbury Vintage 1
The shop also attracts visitors from all over the world – cruise day-trippers looking for a British memento, cathedral tourists, and families hunting for something unique for graduation day. Many fall in love with the bric-a-brac section, filled with retro homeware and keepsakes that capture the charm of yesteryear.
It’s no surprise the store has a growing collection of glowing visitor reviews.
Tamila wrote: “Always lovely staff and great shop.”
Sasha declared it “Best shop everrr!!!” and another happy customer summed it up simply: “10/10 would come again!”
Shopping that makes a difference
Every purchase at Pilgrims Vintage and Retro Shop helps raise vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices, the local end-of-life care charity providing free, compassionate care across east Kent.
By choosing pre-loved, you’re not only supporting sustainable fashion – you’re also helping local people living with incurable illness.
Meet Nigel and the team
Nigel, almost 72, has worked with Pilgrims Hospices’ Retail team for more than 12 years, managing shops in Ramsgate, Chartham, and now Canterbury Vintage and Retro. His flair for the unusual and passion for sustainable fashion make him the perfect guide for anyone seeking something unique.
His motivation for joining Pilgrims was deeply personal:
“A dear friend received the most wonderful care at the Margate hospice after being diagnosed with throat cancer,” Nigel shares.
“I was unprepared for what to expect, but the care couldn’t be faulted. I decided to join Pilgrims to help make a difference – and I absolutely caught the bug. I’ve loved every minute.”
With a team of dedicated volunteers, the shop offers a warm welcome and expert knowledge.
“We provide something for everyone,” Nigel explains.
“From those searching for 40s, 50s or 60s outfits for a vintage occasion or themed wedding, to motorsport fans dressing for Goodwood Revival, we love helping our customers find their unique style. Mixing vintage with modern creates incredible looks – and our men’s vintage section is one of the best around!”
A hub for creativity and opportunity
For crafters and creators, the haberdashery section is an Aladdin’s cave of fabrics, buttons, patterns, and yarn – perfect for sewing, knitting, or upcycling projects.
The shop also offers volunteering opportunities that can build skills and confidence. Faith, a young team member, has gained valuable retail experience that could lead to a career.
Barbara, Nigel’s senior volunteer, has found and developed a real flair for designing and displaying wonderful window ideas, and managing to put them into practice.
Joining the team is Jane, the shop’s new supervisor, whose enthusiasm and support have already made a wonderful impact. Alongside her, the volunteers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the shop, offering invaluable support to Nigel and helping ensure the shop’s success.
“All of our volunteers are priceless,” Nigel says, “and the shop simply couldn’t thrive without them.”
Student perks and sustainable style
Students enjoy a 10% discount all year round, making it a budget-friendly way to express personal style. From themed parties and weddings to everyday outfits, Pilgrims Vintage and Retro proves that sustainable fashion can be exciting, affordable, and one-of-a-kind.
Why visit?
Because you simply can’t visit Canterbury without popping into this hidden gem on Burgate – a street full of charm, history, and independent spirit.
Whether you’re hunting for a graduation outfit, a quirky home accessory, or your next sustainable fashion fix, you’ll find it here – and every purchase supports Pilgrims Hospices’ free care for people across our community.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
15th August 2025
Young fundraiser Milly nominated for BBC award after heartfelt tribute to nan
Pilgrims Hospices is proud to celebrate the kindness and compassion of Milly Rigden, aged 15, from Whitstable, who has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Young Hero category of the BBC Make a Difference Awards 2025 – placing her in the top four of this prestigious category.
Known locally as a pageant princess, Milly was inspired to support Pilgrims after her beloved nan, Carmel, was cared for at the Canterbury hospice. Determined to give back, she created a thoughtful Amazon Wish List filled with comfort items and everyday essentials to help other patients feel at ease during their time in care.
“I wanted to do something to help people like my nan – even small things can make a big difference,” said Milly.
Milly and her sister Lydia, then aged just 8 and 13, initially set themselves a target to raise £1,000 in a year as a way of giving back for the care their nan had received. Their hard work and determination paid off – they smashed their target and raised an incredible £2,626.46.
Milly with her mum, Nadia, and sister, Lydia
Since then, their fundraising mission has grown. The sisters now regularly collect and supply comfort items to the hospice. Many of the items are donated by the pageant community, and others are bought by Milly and Lydia using money raised from small fundraisers and boot fairs.
They put their heart into the items they provide – from soft blankets, toiletries, and puzzle books to cosy socks and practical items like phone chargers and electrical leads.
“It might seem like a small thing,” Milly explained, “but having the ability to charge a phone can mean everything to patients and their families. It helps people stay connected during a really difficult time.”
Milly with the Hug from Home box
One of their most cherished projects is the ‘Hug from Home’ box, which they keep regularly stocked with thoughtful items for patients and families.
“Anyone can come along and select an item that might help them feel a little closer to home,” Milly said.
“Nan always had chilly feet, and we used to bring her cosy socks to keep her warm. We keep the ‘Hug from Home’ box topped up with socks for anyone with chilly toes to enjoy.”
Milly is now an internationally crowned pageant queen, and Lydia has also proudly achieved national pageant recognition. Both sisters use their platforms to support hospice care and encourage others to get involved.
“Mum and I still talk about our nan all the time,” Milly added. “This helps me think of her in a really positive way. She would be so proud of what we do.”
Milly’s interview at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury with BBC journalist Carole Wordsworth
Milly’s dedication and compassion led to her being nominated for the BBC award by family, friends, and members of the pageant community. She found out about the nomination in a moment she’ll never forget.
“We were literally leaving for the United States – part of my pageant duties – when I found out. Mum, Lydia, and I were rushing to catch our flight, and suddenly we heard the news. It was such a shock, and a lot to take in at that moment, but also incredibly exciting. What a privilege to be recognised for my efforts.”
The Rigden family are well known as regular volunteers at Pilgrims events. Milly and Lydia have taken part in some of Pilgrims’ most loved fundraising activities, including the Thanet 5k Colour Run and Santas on the Run! festive fun run.
“We’d like to say a huge thank you to the Rigden family for all the support they bring to Pilgrims Hospices,” added Kate White, Senior Nurse Manager.
Milly in the Canterbury hospice gardens
Milly also continues to use her pageant platform to raise awareness of hospice care – not only in the UK, but on an international stage.
“When I travel as part of the pageant, I get to spread the message about hospice care and how important it is,” said Milly.
“It’s an honour to shine a light on what Pilgrims does for so many people.”
Her nomination is a powerful reminder of the impact young people can make when they’re motivated by love, compassion, and community spirit.
“Milly’s kindness has really shone through,” said Rachel Edmed, Senior Fundraiser at Pilgrims Hospices. “She’s shown that anyone, at any age, can make a big difference to those facing the most difficult times. We’re so proud of her.”
Milly was recently interviewed by BBC journalist Carole Wordsworth at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury, where she shared her story and celebrated the incredible contributions of young people in our communities.
The BBC Make a Difference Awards will take place later in 2025, recognising unsung heroes across the UK who go the extra mile to help others. Whatever the outcome, Milly has already made a lasting difference – one heartfelt gesture at a time.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
14th July 2025
Handmade jewellery honours much-loved wife and helps raise thousands for Pilgrims Hospices
A touching story of love, loss and generosity unfolded at this year’s 100 Pieces of Art charity auction in Margate, as a local family honoured the memory of a beloved wife and mother by donating handmade jewellery – helping to raise over £9,500 for Pilgrims Hospices.
Mark Boland, whose wife Maureen was cared for by Pilgrims at the Canterbury hospice, attended the event with his daughter Sharon to see two bespoke sets of silver earrings and necklaces auctioned in Maureen’s memory.
The jewellery was designed and created by Mark’s niece, Diana King, a professional jeweller based in Perth, Scotland.
Inspired by the Pilgrims Hospices logo, the pieces were lovingly crafted in sterling silver. They served not only as striking works of art but also as deeply personal tributes to a woman described as “a wonderful wife, mum, nan, sister and aunt.”
“Mum had a huge collection of earrings – she loved them and had a pair for every occasion,” said Sharon. “Creating jewellery in her memory just felt like the perfect way to raise funds for the place that cared for her so kindly in her final days.”
Maureen passed away in November 2024, just a month short of what would have been her 60th wedding anniversary with Mark.
During her final days, she received specialist care at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury, where the family found both comfort and support.
“We were welcomed with open arms at the hospice,” Sharon said. “The team – from volunteers to nurses and doctors – were amazing. Everyone had a role to play in making Mum’s last week pain-free and peaceful.”
Even though it was during the winter months, Sharon recalled how Maureen loved to look out on the hospice gardens.
“It helped us all to share calm moments together in a horrendous situation. We’re incredibly grateful to Pilgrims.”
The idea for the jewellery came from Sharon’s dad, who noticed the potential for the Pilgrims logo to be reimagined as elegant designs. He shared the concept with his niece Diana, who quickly embraced the project.
“As soon as my Uncle Mark sent me the idea, I wanted to do it,” said Diana King, who runs Diana King Jewellery Workshop.
“Pilgrims cared for my aunt Maureen and supported my uncle and cousins so wonderfully. It meant a lot to be able to contribute to such an important cause.”
“My Auntie was a beautiful person – so kind and caring. It’s still so hard to believe she’s no longer with us. I wanted to give back on behalf of our family in a small way. When my Uncle Mark asked me to help out, my first thought was to represent the hospice and reflect their care and compassion.”
Diana’s contribution became part of 100 Pieces of Art, Pilgrims Hospices’ creative fundraising event, held at the Anthony Giles Studio in Margate. The event brought together artists, art lovers and supporters from across the county to raise vital funds for hospice care in east Kent.
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Hospices Community Fundraising Manager, said:
“We were incredibly touched by the generosity of the Boland family and the beauty of Diana’s jewellery. It was clear how much love had gone into the design, and how much it meant to the family.
“This story moved everyone attending, and the pieces helped us raise additional funds to support more families in need of end-of-life care.”
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate care and support for over 2,500 people living with a terminal illness each year across east Kent. Events like 100 Pieces of Art are crucial in helping to fund these services.
“We’re so thankful to Mark, Sharon, Diana, and everyone who contributed to this year’s auction,” added Karen. “Their generosity is helping us to continue delivering comfort and dignity to those who need it most.”
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with a terminal illness. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
11th June 2025
Fiona’s Kilimanjaro climb raises thousands for Pilgrims Hospices
At 62, Fiona Dobson from Canterbury proved she’s no stranger to a challenge when she successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in June 2025, raising an incredible £5,300 for Pilgrims Hospices, where she volunteers as a Ward Support Volunteer.
Fiona Dobson, Ward Support Volunteer at Pilgrims Hospices
“I paid for the trip myself because I didn’t want any of the fundraising to go towards costs – I wanted every penny raised to support the care Pilgrims offers,” Fiona said.
Fiona’s connection to Pilgrims spans nearly 40 years. She began her nursing career at the hospice in 1986 and has worked as a district nurse, practice nurse, and still does freelance vaccination work.
“I started my career here, and I’d like to finish it here too. Volunteering on the ward once a week means a lot – it’s special. I love it.”
Fiona has experienced the value of hospice care personally, having lost her dad at Pilgrims, a close friend, and her husband’s brother more recently.
“It’s more than the beds – it’s the support for families, friends, and the counselling. That makes all the difference.”
An experienced hillwalker, Fiona had already tackled the Yorkshire Three Peaks, parts of the Alps and Pyrenees, and over 50 Scottish “Fionas” – lesser-known peaks once called Grahams – plus several Munros and Corbetts.
“There are often no paths on the Fionas – it’s rough terrain, but that’s what I love. Kilimanjaro took it to a new level.”
She trained hard for the challenge, running the Kent Downs, doing yoga, gym sessions, and cycling events – including Pilgrims’ Cycle Challenge.
“I did the 50-mile route a few weeks before the climb. It was windy – one of the toughest yet! I only recently found out a photo of me from the 2017 event is on a Pilgrims van!”
Fiona Dobson 2
Fiona Dobson 3
Fiona and friends fundraising for Pilgrims Hospices
Now retired and with two grown-up children, Fiona enjoys walking her dogs on the White Cliffs and embracing new adventures. She completed the Kilimanjaro trek with a friend, as part of a group of 20, capturing the experience through photos.
“It was life-changing. I made new friends, and most importantly, it was all for Pilgrims. It’s a brilliant place and I’m proud to support it however I can.”
You’ll follow in the footsteps of great mountaineers on a breathtaking 16-day journey through the Himalayas, including an 11-day trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp.
Led by an experienced UK Mountain Leader and supported by local experts, this is a pilgrimage to top all others. From spectacular sunrises over the snow-capped peaks to gazing up at the mighty summit from Kala Patthar, it’s the adventure of a lifetime – and you could be part of Team Pilgrims.
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.
