Physiotherapist Kim raises over £1,000 for hospice care in triathlon and wing walk extravaganza
In August 2025, Kim Steel from Birchington completed a triathlon and a wing walk (in a morph suit!) for Pilgrims Hospices, raising more than £1,000 for local hospice care.
As a physiotherapist at the Thanet hospice, Kim sees first-hand how Pilgrims care benefits the east Kent community.
Kim
Kim qualified as a physiotherapist in 2010 and enjoyed many varied roles before joining Pilgrims. She worked with sports teams, taught Pilates, and volunteered in Belize setting up clinics for people who struggled to access healthcare. Kim is also trained in acupuncture, and has specialised in paediatrics and orthopaedics. After working within the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic and then having her daughter, Theia (2), she decided to try self-employment.
Kim said: “I was humbled by the team dynamics, the courage and positivity of my NHS colleagues, despite the adversity; it was inspiring. I continued with them until we were lucky enough to start our family, when I needed the flexibility to fit my work around childcare.”
Whilst looking to supplement her self-employment, Kim spotted a temporary maternity cover vacancy at Pilgrims:
“I took a stab in the dark; I’d not had much experience with palliative care. After seeing the inspiring care, helping people with their wishes in their last days, and feeling like a valued team member, I jumped at the chance to be made permanent.”
Six months into her role at Pilgrims, Kim wanted to give back even more, and decided to take on a triathlon and a wing walk for the charity.
Kim during the triathlon
Kim completed the Active Life Oysterman Triathlon – a 500m swim, 20k cycle and 5k run – in Whitstable on 3 August 2025. She had originally signed up to do it “for fun” in 2024, but deferred due to post-partum recovery:
“I had several complications after my emergency C-section with Theia in 2023, including sepsis and a haematoma. I needed surgery, and fought for my life three times in a fortnight. I also had ongoing hip pain and post-sepsis syndrome.
“While my fitness was OK when I was on maternity leave, trying to return to work and keep it up wasn’t manageable. Deferring the triathlon allowed me to really optimise my training… until eight weeks prior to the event, when I tore an ankle ligament! Luckily it healed, but it left me with less than a fortnight to train. So, with all the work I put into it, I felt it was worth a sponsor!”
On the day, Kim completed her swim in 14 minutes (doing 700m in total), her cycle in 55 minutes, and her run in 37 minutes, and said:
“I didn’t hate it and I didn’t die, so I’ll take that as a win! I had great support from my husband, James, and my friends Meg and Emily, and Theia ran after me trying to cross the finish line!”
Kim at the triathlon with her daughter, Theia, and her best friend, Meg
And Kim didn’t stop there!
Drawn to thrill-seeking pursuits, she wanted to push her comfort zone further and completed a wing walk challenge at Headcorn Aerodrome on 17 August 2025:
“I’ve been intrigued by wing walking since I saw it on Davina McCall’s Don’t Try This at Home programme as a kid. I remember watching it in awe; wing walking particularly stood out, and I thought, “I’m going to do that when I grow up!””
“Now, as an adult, it feels pretty insane; I’ve generally been fearless (Theia is making sure that comes back to haunt me!) I’ve skydived, played roller derby, ramp skated, travelled alone from a young age, and moved away from friends and family to set up a new life by the sea.”
“But I remember that inevitable adult fear kicking in twice while travelling through Guatemala – once hurtling down a volcano on a bike (no bottling it on that one!) and the other jumping off a 20m bridge into a river below (that one I did bottle, and I’ve kicked myself since).
“So, definitely no bottling the wing walk. Friends, clients and my parents have all been so generous in supporting me and spreading the word. I said if I hit £1,000, I’d do it in a morph suit… and I did!”
Kim also organised and led a Pilates session on Minnis Bay Beach in July 2025, to further support her fundraising.
Upon completing the wing walk, she reflected:
“The day was lovely – a once in a life time opportunity. It was amazing to have family there to cheer me on; Theia wore wings and walked on the wing of a play plane! I felt calm about it all, awaiting “the best rollercoaster of my life” as it had been coined by someone who’d done it prior. I tried to lift my legs, which was quite a challenge! I also took in the incredible views – it was a beautiful, clear day. A couple of times I felt my belly go, as we did dramatic height changes.
“Back on the ground, I felt accomplished and very relaxed!
“I have precious memories of the day and am very pleased to have raised over £1,000 for local hospice care.”
2025 08 Wing Walk 2 5520 MED RES James
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Kim’s wing walk for Pilgrims Hospices
Sophie Howland, Events Fundraiser, said:
“A huge thank you to Kim, who’s truly gone above and beyond for Pilgrims! Through her hard work and bravery, she’s raised an amazing £1,246 to support local hospice care. We’re so proud of everything she’s achieved, and what a fantastic difference she’s made. Well done and thank you, Kim!”
Kim added:
“Pilgrims staff have been so incredibly welcoming, and also taught me a whole new way of working. The care, compassion and skill they provide for those in the last months and days of their lives is humbling, and it doesn’t stop there – they also provide comfort to patients’ loved ones, easing their journey at such difficult times.
“I feel hospices should be fully funded, and I think it’s outrageous that most of their funding comes from other peoples’ charity, so I want to do all I can to support them.
“So please, if you can, help us to continue helping people in east Kent. Thank you!”
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.
13th August 2025
Anne’s once in a lifetime wing walk for Pilgrims Hospices
Pilgrims supporter Anne Willmott took to the skies for a truly unforgettable fundraising challenge – a wing walk soaring 500ft above the Kent countryside – in memory of her much-loved mum, Sandra, and to support hospice care in east Kent.
Anne with her daughter, Jade, and granddaughters
Anne recently met with the Pilgrims team at the Ashford hospice, joined by her daughter Jade and granddaughters Kaydee-Jade (9) and Gracie (almost 6). She’s no stranger to Pilgrims; her family shares a longstanding and very personal connection with the charity. Anne’s mum, Sandra, was a much-loved volunteer on the Ashford reception for many years, offering a friendly face and comforting welcome to all who came through the hospice doors.
Sandra was cared for by the Ashford hospice team and died in February 2024 – poignantly, on World Cancer Day. Anne, her father James, and the family spent precious time with Sandra while she was being cared for at the hospice, supported throughout by Pilgrims’ expert and compassionate team.
“The care Mum received was so special,” Anne said. “We were able to be with her at the hospice and felt supported every step of the way. The team were comforting and amazing. They helped us stay calm through such difficult times. They even helped me to be very positive and strong in the moment, which is something I’ll always be grateful for.”
Anne’s dad James continues to be a dedicated supporter, sharing his photography talents at Pilgrims events and giving talks about his travels, with all donations going to support local hospice care. Anne and her daughter Jade proudly carry on that photography tradition, volunteering their time and skills throughout the year.
Sandra and James
Speaking about her recent wing walk at Headcorn Aerodrome, Anne said:
“I’m so proud to have taken on this amazing challenge. Once I climbed onto the wing and was strapped in, I expected nerves – but instead, I felt an incredible sense of calm. I smiled the whole way through! As we landed, I just dissolved into tears. It was joy, pride, and emotion all at once. I really felt Mum was watching over me. Now I just want to do it all over again!”
Anne doing her wing walk
The wing walk also marked a personal milestone for Anne, celebrating her recovery from illness four years ago.
“This was a way to celebrate feeling well again, to remember Mum, and to give something back to Pilgrims for the incredible care she received. It was the most exciting way I could think of to say thank you.”
Anne launched a JustGiving pageto support her challenge and was overwhelmed by the kindness of family, friends, and even anonymous donors. She has raised more than £1,200 so far.
Anne and Sandra
“People were so generous – it really touched me. I think it speaks volumes about how much Pilgrims Hospices means to people in our community. I couldn’t thank everyone enough. It was lovely to achieve something so personal while raising funds for something so close to all our hearts.”
Sophie, from Pilgrims’ Fundraising team, congratulated Anne on behalf of the charity:
“It’s official – you’re a wing walker! We’re so proud of you, Anne.
“Your bravery, energy and compassion are inspiring. The funds you’ve raised will help us continue to provide vital care to patients and families across east Kent.”
Anne and her family continue to support Pilgrims in many ways — attending remembrance events like Sunflower Memories and honouring Sandra’s life with a leaf on the hospice’s Memory Tree.
“We’re really proud to be part of the Pilgrims family,” Anne added. “Mum loved her time volunteering, and we all feel close to her when we’re supporting the hospice. I think she’d be thrilled to see us all carrying that on.”
So, what’s next for Anne?
“How do you top a wing walk? Maybe some loop-the-loops next time!” she laughed. “Whatever comes next, I’ll keep doing what makes me happy – and supporting Pilgrims wherever I can.”
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.
18th July 2025
Ready, set… glow! Pilgrims Hospices Colour Run returns to Thanet for another spectacular splash of colour!
It’s time to dig out your white t-shirts, dust off your tutus, and gather your friends and family – Pilgrims Hospices’ Colour Run is back on Sunday 5 October 2025 at Palm Bay Green, Cliftonville, and it’s set to be brighter, bolder, and more brilliant than ever!
Now in its 9th year, this riot of colour has become a much-loved fixture on the Pilgrims calendar, raising thousands of pounds to help people across east Kent who are living with incurable illness.
Whether you walk, run, dance or hop your way around the 5k route, you’ll be showered in clouds of colourful powder paint – with guaranteed smiles from start to finish! Early Bird entry is now open, so sign up today and save while helping your local hospice continue to provide expert, compassionate care.
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Colour Run 1
Among the excited faces ready to go again this year is Annie Pritchard, a familiar face in the Pilgrims fundraising team. Annie, who works alongside Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager, has been a proud Colour Run fan since day one, and has taken part in every event so far – that’s nine bursts of brilliant colour and community spirit in Thanet!
Annie at Thanet 5k Colour Run
Annie and her husband Reg, one of Pilgrims’ fantastic volunteers, are also part of the magic behind the scenes – as members of the colour station team, they’re the ones responsible for dousing participants in clouds of vibrant, joyful paint along the route.
“I just love it,” said Annie, laughing. “You arrive clean, you leave looking like a rainbow – what’s not to love? It’s the happiest 5k you’ll ever do! There’s music, laughter, and colour EVERYWHERE… and all for an incredible cause. Being at the colour station is the best part – seeing everyone’s faces as they get showered in colour is just brilliant!”
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims’ Community Fundraising Manager, added:
“Colour Run is such a fun and feel-good event – it really brings our community together. Whether you’re taking part for the first time or returning for your ninth year, there’s something magical about being part of it. We’re so grateful to everyone who signs up, fundraises, and joins in the fun – every step and splash of colour helps us continue caring for local people who need us most.”
Reg at Thanet 5k Colour Run
The Colour Run has helped raise vital funds over the years for Pilgrims Hospices, supporting people across Thanet, Canterbury and Ashford. Every ticket helps Pilgrims continue to offer care and comfort at some of life’s most difficult times.
So – are you in?
Early Bird entry is available until 11 August 2025, so sign up now and get ready to run, walk, wiggle, and giggle your way through clouds of colour in support of local hospice care.
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.
10th July 2025
Conor runs from Thanet to Belfast in epic journey for Pilgrims Hospices
On 22 October 2025, 33-year-old plumber Conor Bird from Ramsgate will set out on an epic journey for Pilgrims Hospices in memory of his mum, Barbara Bird, who was cared for by the charity.
Beginning at the Thanet hospice in Margate, Conor will run more than 30 miles per day to reach Barbara’s childhood home in Belfast on 2 November 2025, which will be the 10-year anniversary of her death.
In total, Conor will cover an incredible 330 miles.
Conor said: “Mum was just 51 when she died. Pilgrims Hospices played a huge role in keeping our family life as normal as possible during the worst period in our lives. The care they gave Mum was second to none. On several occasions, she went into the hospice for three or four days for pain management; she always came home a different person, ready to battle on.
“Nothing was too big or small for the Pilgrims team to accommodate during Mum’s care, it truly was inspirational to see.”
Conor has already raised over £800 towards his fundraising challenge, with donations from family and friends steadily rolling in.
Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager, said:
“When I received the call from Conor, I could not believe my ears; my reply was, “Wow, that’s some challenge you’re setting yourself!” Conor is so determined and passionate about supporting our services. I take my hat off to him, and wish him every success along the way to Belfast. We will certainly be watching his running from a distance and look forward to regular updates!
“As always, we are only able to provide our services, free of charge, thanks to the generosity of our family of supporters, of which Conor is an important part. Thank you for your incredible support of Pilgrims Hospices.”
Alongside raising vital funds for Pilgrims, Conor hopes to increase awareness about hospice care and help to challenge common misconceptions about it.
He added: “People often have a fear about what hospices represent, but I know from my own experience that they aren’t always sad places – they’re inspirational places that help people, too.
“Pilgrims offer relief to families going through an awful chapter in life – and somehow, through the care they give, it doesn’t feel quite so awful.
“Nothing I can do will ever repay Pilgrims for the extra time they gave us to spend with Mum. But by fundraising, I hope to bring attention to Pilgrims’ services so that other families can benefit, and that’s definitely worth doing.”
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.
