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
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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.
2nd May 2025
A fond farewell to Debbie Boots: Celebrating 24 years of compassionate care at Pilgrims Hospices
After an incredible 24 years with Pilgrims Hospices, Advanced Clinical Practitioner, Debbie Boots, is retiring, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of care, compassion, and dedication.
Debbie in her early nursing days
Originally from Dagenham, Essex, Debbie has called Thanet home for many years. Her nursing career spans an impressive 44 years, taking just two short breaks for maternity leave. She first trained as a general nurse in Redbridge, gaining experience in male and female surgery and mental health care before moving into care home management.
But it was a single, deeply moving experience with an end-of-life patient at QEQM Hospital that led Debbie to hospice care – a decision that shaped the rest of her career.
Debbie joined Pilgrims Hospices with a passion for ensuring that patients facing life-limiting illnesses receive the best possible care. She embraced every opportunity to develop her skills, working on the in-patient wards and within the community team, earning a Master’s Degree and becoming an Advanced Practitioner Nurse – later recognised as an Advanced Clinical Practitioner.
Throughout her time at Pilgrims, she has played a crucial role in developing nurse prescribing within the charity, mentoring colleagues, and influencing best practices in end-of-life care.
Debbie with Brenda Blethyn
Reflecting on her journey, Debbie says:
“Listening is one of the biggest parts of our role as Pilgrims nurses. I’m a very good listener, and patients need to tell their stories. When you’re listening, you get a sense of what’s most important to them – and that’s what we need to focus on.
Everything we do here is patient-focused. We need to know that our patients feel supported and cared for every step of the way, right up to the very last moment.”
She continues:
“From the moment people are invited to attend any of our clinics or arrive at the hospice for the first time, they’re often tense and sitting on the edge of their chair. We work hard to pick up on the cues in those early conversations, and provide a management plan that will help them to live as well as possible for the remainder of their life.
“When people realise that we’re truly listening, reflecting and empathising, you can see the change – they begin to relax. By gaining their trust, we help them find the coping mechanisms they need at the early stages of their care.”
Her decision to retire was made over a year ago, with the heartfelt desire to be there for her elderly parents and growing family. She is looking forward to spending more time with her two young grandsons, Gregory (3) and Duncan (18 months), and to welcoming a granddaughter soon. At 62, Debbie is also prioritising her own health while embracing this new chapter of life.
Though stepping away from the hospice is bittersweet, Debbie is confident in the talented and dedicated nursing and clinical team she leaves behind. She shares:
“I’ve always worked alongside incredible colleagues, and now it’s time to step back and let them spread their wings. They have the skills, compassion, and fresh ideas to continue delivering outstanding care.”
However, this isn’t a complete goodbye. Debbie has expressed her wish to maintain her links with her beloved hospice career and is considering volunteering in one of Pilgrims’ charity shops in the future.
“It will be lovely to still feel that I’m part of the very special Pilgrims team,” she says.
A message from Kate White, Senior Nurse Manager:
“Debbie’s wisdom, warmth, and unwavering commitment will be deeply missed by colleagues and patients alike. We thank her for her years of service and wish her all the happiness and relaxation she deserves in retirement.”
Enjoy every moment, Debbie – you’ve truly earned it!
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.
18th March 2025
Pilgrims Hospices celebrate World Social Work Day 2025
Pilgrims Hospices is proud to provide holistic, compassionate palliative care across east Kent. The charity supports people in many different ways, and social work is an integral part of this.
To celebrate World Social Work Day 2025, the social work team share what they enjoy about their roles at Pilgrims, and how they support patients, families and local communities.
Melinda
Melinda Downes, Social Worker at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury
“I’ve always been driven to help people, so to have the opportunity to compassionately care for those facing a terminal illness is not only a privilege, but a very humbling experience.
As a social worker, I get to meet inspiring people and work with fantastic and supportive colleagues within our amazing wider team. I enjoy experiencing meaningful connections with patients, families and carers, and knowing that the support I’m able to provide is appreciated.”
Lynn Griffiths, Social Worker at Pilgrims Hospice Thanet
Lynn
“Working at Pilgrims is a real privilege. It brings me huge job satisfaction, and is both humbling and rewarding. My favourite thing about working here is the people. I’m inspired by our patients and families every day, and feel grateful to have the opportunity to make a positive difference. The team are all incredibly supportive of each other; they are professional, caring and, most of all, kind. Pilgrims is a really lovely place to work.
I spend time with patients and their families, both on the ward and in the community, supporting them during what is often a very difficult period in their lives. Having the time to make trusting and meaningful relationships is so important, and I feel privileged when people share their experiences with me.
My role is different every day; the diversity creates a busy workload, but it is enjoyable and allows me to use my social work training, skills and knowledge to contribute positively to the patients, families and the wider multi-disciplinary team within the hospice.”
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.
12th March 2025
Nourishing body and soul: Pilgrims Hospices catering team
At Pilgrims Hospices, our catering team is more than just a group of staff – we’re a family.
Every day, we work tirelessly to provide delicious, nutritious meals to patients, families, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Our goal is to create comforting, high-quality food that brings warmth and a sense of normality to everyone who walks through our doors.
Our teams at Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet work closely with trusted suppliers to ensure fresh, wholesome meals for all tastes and dietary needs while carefully managing budgets. As one team member puts it, “There’s never a dull moment! We’re always looking for innovative recipes to offer something special.”
We also provide catering services for the Ann Robertson Centre in Canterbury, which offers meeting and training spaces. Our food ensures visitors are well-fed while they work in a welcoming environment.
A passion for food and care
Head of Catering Ian Ashton highlights the significance of our work:
“My team feeds staff and volunteers alongside our patients. We offer subsidised lunchtime meals and a variety of items available for purchase throughout the day. Patient meals are carefully tailored, and my team regularly visits the wards to ensure we’re meeting each patient’s needs.”
Ian adds, “We’re immensely grateful to local producers and supermarkets for their support with free goods when available. This helps us stretch our budget and create a wider variety of meals. Thanks to our freezer capacity, nothing goes to waste.”
Nutrition plays a crucial role in holistic care, especially for those in the final stages of life. Our teams go the extra mile to meet each patient’s wishes.
At Thanet, a patient once requested lobster — and we made it happen. Head Chef Georgie at Thanet explains, “Providing comforting, tasty food is just as important as caring for our patients on the ward.”
Bobby, Head Chef at Ashford, agrees: “It’s about more than food; it’s about moments of connection and care.”
Growing our own
Our commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients is reflected in our kitchen gardens, lovingly tended by volunteers. These gardens supply seasonal produce, which our chefs incorporate into daily menus. Thanks to funding from the Environment Fund, administered by the Kent Community Foundation, we have established a new kitchen garden at our Canterbury hospice. Fresh ingredients like leeks and parsley are already being used in dishes such as leek and parmesan risotto and homemade fish cakes.
We also involve patients in the process, offering a mindful, reflective experience as they pick fresh ingredients for their meals.
Supporting our work
Through the dedication of our catering teams, volunteers, and supporters, we ensure every patient receives the nourishment – both physical and emotional – that they deserve.
Join our catering team
We’re looking for passionate individuals to join us, including a Head Chef at Canterbury. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced chef seeking a rewarding role with no split shifts or late nights.
As Head Chef, you will:
Design and prepare nutritious, varied menus
Cater for corporate and fundraising events
Work with healthcare colleagues to meet dietary needs
Lead and support a dedicated team
Maintain high standards of food safety and cleanliness
This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to make a difference every day.
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.
19th December 2024
Pilgrims Hospices response to the Government’s announcement of a £100 million funding boost for hospice care in England
We welcome the Government’s recognition and support, which will help us to continue to provide end-of-life care for our patients and their families living in east Kent.
This represents an important step towards acknowledging the significant financial pressures hospices face. We look forward to working with Hospice UK early in the new year to fully understand what this funding means for hospices.
We’d like to thank Hospice UK for all for their hard work and ongoing support for the hospice sector.
Helen Bennett
CEO Pilgrims Hospices
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.
