A story of love, support, and courage: Alex’s journey with Pilgrims Hospices
Amie Tuffs, 25, met Alex Streater eight years ago at Canterbury Christ Church University, and they became inseparable.
But their journey together took a heartbreaking turn when Alex, just 33, was diagnosed with terminal cancer in February 2025.
Amie, who works within a mental health care team in Canterbury, knew the importance of compassionate care, having worked with Pilgrims Hospices in the past. However, nothing could prepare her for being on the receiving end of hospice support. Alex had lived with a liver condition for several years, and after a hospital stay where he became jaundiced, he was diagnosed with incurable cholangiocarcinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer.
With no early warning signs and limited treatment options, the disease is often detected too late, making it incredibly difficult to fight. The news was devastating.
Amie Tufts 3
Amie Tufts 2
Amie Tufts 1
In the early days following his discharge from the hospital, there was a difficult gap before hospice support kicked in. Amie called Pilgrims Hospices at 4am, and by 10am, a nurse and social worker had arrived. Their care provided Alex and his family with the emotional and physical support they desperately needed.
Amie’s interview by ITV Meridian at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury in May 2025:
Alex, a peer support practitioner in mental health, had always been resilient. Even after his diagnosis, he was determined to give back. He organised a “Living Wake” to raise awareness and funds for Pilgrims, raising over £1,850. The event had a 90s theme, with Alex dressing up as The Mask – a joyful nod to his playful spirit. His bravery in openly discussing death helped everyone around him come to terms with his condition.
“For Alex, it wasn’t about hiding from death—it was about facing it with love and support,” says Amie. “His courage was inspiring.”
What made the greatest difference was how Pilgrims tailored their care to meet Alex’s needs as a younger patient. They understood that being 33 brought different emotional and practical challenges, and the support they gave reflected that. This age-appropriate care helped Alex feel truly seen, heard, and supported.
Amie, who had previously worked with the Pilgrims team, saw firsthand how vital their work was. “They didn’t just care for Alex as a patient – they cared for him as a young man with a full life, a future he didn’t want to lose, and a voice he wanted to use.”
Alex and Amie with friends and family at Alex’s living wake
Even after Alex’s death, his spirit continues to inspire. His family and friends are committed to continuing the fundraising efforts he began, ensuring that Pilgrims can keep offering life-changing care to others in need.
Alex’s memory lives on, not just in the hearts of those who loved him, but through the ongoing support of Pilgrims Hospices.
If you would like to support Amie with her continued fundraising, you can visit 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.
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.
9th April 2024
Finding joy in memories: Sarah reflects on celebrating her dad’s life at Sunflower Memories
Sarah shares why celebrating the life of her dad, Anthony, at Sunflower Memories, is so important to her and her family.
My Dad was a total one-off. He had the most amazing sense of humour, loved to be the centre of attention, and was ridiculous, in the best way! With my brother and two sisters, we were all so close, but he and I in particular were such kindred spirits.
He loved jazz and rock and roll music, and when the time came, he decided on the music for his own funeral. In true Dad style, he chose Jerry Lee Lewis’s Great Balls of Fire to be played on the day! As I was putting his eulogy together and talking to all of the people in his life, there was one commonality between all of their memories: laughter.
I find such comfort in coming back to the hospice to remember him, and these events are such a wonderful opportunity and excuse to do so.
Sarah
Dad had his blood cancer diagnosis in 2014, and beat the odds of his prognosis. It wasn’t until he suffered a stroke in March of 2022 that he started to deteriorate. The cruellest part was that the stroke took his voice, and for a man with such a vivacious character, it was so upsetting.
Sarah’s dad, Anthony
While Dad only spent 36 hours in the hospice, Pilgrims Wellbeing services were offered to him beforehand, although he was hesitant to utilise them. In the end, he knew that the Canterbury hospice was the place he wanted to be. Ultimately, it was his life, his death, and his choice, right to the very end.
As soon as we arrived at the hospice, we were greeted by a doctor and nurses, who were amazing. They immediately sprang into action and got his pain and anxieties under control. They created such an honest, open, and safe environment in which Dad and all of the family were so supported. We were so scared and unsure of what to expect, but the Pilgrims nurses stayed by our side throughout, providing such a steady and reassuring presence.
Two years later, and I still find it hard to believe that he isn’t here with us. Along with my siblings, I remember my dad at both Trees of Love and Sunflower Memories. I find such comfort in coming back to the hospice to remember him, and these events are such a wonderful opportunity and excuse to do so. I want to keep celebrating him and see his name written somewhere. Knowing Dad, he would want to be flashed everywhere!
Sunflower Days take place on Saturday 20 July 2024, 1pm–4pm in Pilgrims Hospices gardens in Canterbury, Thanet, and Ashford.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
18th March 2024
Pilgrims Hospices wins prestigious Joanna Mugridge Research Award
The announcement, made during the conference in early February, marked a significant achievement for the ‘Talk’ evaluation team at Pilgrims Hospices, working with the Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent on evaluating the pilot. The team’s poster was one of 67 at the conference, reviewed by a panel of judges.
The Joanna Mugridge Research Award, established in memory of Joanna, a dedicated nurse at the Marie Curie Hospice in Caterham, serves to honour her legacy and unwavering commitment to serving individuals and families affected by cancer. Created by her family, following Joanna’s passing in May 2000, the award aims to support the vital work of Marie Curie and its researchers in advancing palliative care.
We are delighted to have received this recognition for the poster, it will inform the development of our Talk project within our region, moving forward, which supports earlier identification and referral of patients who need our hospice services”
Charlotte Brigden – Pilgrims Hospices Research Facilitator
Presented annually at the Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Conference, the award recognises outstanding contributions to research in the field of palliative care. It not only celebrates excellence but also provides recipients with resources to further their research, education, and professional development.
Doctor Andrew Thorns, Pilgrims Hospices Consultant in Palliative Care and Research Lead, expressed: “I’m so pleased for the project team, this is recognition of a great idea, lots of work, and the start of things to come—well done!”
Pilgrims Hospices extends heartfelt gratitude to Joanna Mugridge’s family for their invaluable support in perpetuating research efforts aimed at enhancing end-of-life care. The recognition received for their “Talk” pilot project underscores the team’s dedication to improving patient outcomes and fostering compassionate care practices. Pilgrims hope to share this information more widely moving forward.
For those interested in learning more about Pilgrims Hospices’ impactful work in end-of-life care, please visit www.pilgrimshospices.org.
Care is provided from three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. To offer these services to patients and their families, the charity must raise £11 million each year from the generous local community.
4th March 2024
Gear up for good: Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge returns for the 14th year!
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the 14th annual Cycle Challenge, set to take place on Sunday, May 5th, 2024. This renowned event continues its tradition of raising vital funds to support the skilled and compassionate care within the three hospices and across the communities of east Kent.
Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge has become a staple in the region, attracting cyclists of all levels from near and far to embark on a journey of camaraderie and support for a worthy cause. Over the years, this event has garnered immense support, with participants, sponsors, and volunteers coming together to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those facing the last year of life.
This year, we’re cranking it up with as many as 1,200 riders ready to conquer routes that wind through scenic landscapes and charming villages in east Kent. Whether you’re an experienced rider seeking a challenging route or a novice cyclist looking for a leisurely ride, there’s something for everyone at the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge.
Ride it your way by choosing one of five ride distances and routes,
The Circuit: 30 miles
The Classic: 50 miles
The Challenge: 75 miles
The Century: 100 miles
The Epic: 125 miles
“We’re thrilled to host our 14th annual Cycle Challenge, continuing our mission to provide compassionate care and support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses,” said Sue Sharp, Director of Income Generation at Pilgrims Hospices. “The Cycle Challenge not only raises vital funds for hospice care but also brings our community together in a spirit of unity and generosity.”
Early birds get the worm, or in this case, a spot on the start line on the 5th May! Secure your saddle and start revving those fundraising engines to support hospice patients and their families. Funds raised from the Cycle Challenge will go directly towards providing essential services, including medical care, counselling, and support programs, ensuring that individuals facing a life-limiting illness receive the compassionate care they deserve.
Pilgrims Hospices extends its gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers for their incredible support, which enables the charity to continue its invaluable work in the community.
Join us on May 5th, 2024, as we pedal for a purpose and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
20th December 2023
Team Chocolate Orange to sweeten the spirits at Pilgrims Hospices
In a heart-warming gesture of appreciation for the dedicated staff and nurses at Pilgrims Hospices, Team Chocolate Orange delivered 300 delectable Chocolate Oranges on Friday, 15th December. This initiative is a heartfelt thank-you for their unwavering commitment to providing end-of-life care for the local people of east Kent.
Allan Pippard, along with his wife Joanne, representing the Faversham Town Walking Football group, spearheaded the delivery. The group has passionately collected the Chocolate Oranges as a token of gratitude for the compassionate care extended by the Pilgrims Hospices team. Jo’s mother, Diane Mewett was cared for at the Canterbury hospice in early 2017, and they have since been advocates of the hospice and the care provided.
The roots of this chocolaty initiative trace back to Chris Lamb, whose son Elliot received care at Alder Hey Hospital and sadly passed away in 2010. Fuelled by a desire to transform grief into positive change, Chris initiated the Chocolate Orange Challenge. This annual tradition not only commemorates Elliot’s memory but also stands as a symbol of appreciation for the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals.
Kevin Mullins, a member of Team Chocolate Orange said: “I’m delighted to hear that Faversham Town Walking Football has successfully reached the target of 300 Chocolate Oranges to thank our incredible staff under the banner of Team Chocolate Orange. This is a huge feat, as last year 300 Chocolate Oranges would have cost donors £300, but due to the price increase this year, the cost was £450. It’s an incredible show of gratitude from a small cohort of people and a true reflection of the character of the group. Praise is due to Allan for organising the collection and agreeing to make the delivery on behalf of Faversham Town Walking Football. I’m sure for both Allan and Joanne, it was a special moment.”
Kevin added, “I would also like to mention Pete Kenehan, who made an incredibly generous individual donation to our overall team Chocolate Orange collection following the passing of his wife, Sue Kenehan, at Pilgrims Hospices.”
Allan Pippard, coordinator of the Chocolate Orange collection, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming delivery, saying, “It’s a privilege to be part of this initiative that spreads joy and gratitude. The Pilgrims Hospices team does exceptional work, and this is our way of saying thank you for their dedication to our community.”
The delivery will definitely bring a touch of sweetness to the hardworking staff and nurses at Pilgrims Hospices. The Faversham Town Walking Football group looks forward to continuing this tradition of giving back and making a positive impact in the local community.
Leila Ilkhan, Pilgrims Hospices Corporate and Trusts Partnerships Manager, said: “We really appreciate the chocolaty treats and wish to thank everyone involved for thinking of the Pilgrims team as we approach the festive season. We will be sharing the treats across all three of the Pilgrims Hospice sites in Canterbury, Ashford, and Thanet.”
About Team Chocolate Orange
Team Chocolate Orange is a community initiative that aims to express gratitude to healthcare professionals through the annual Chocolate Orange Challenge. Inspired by the memory of Elliot Lamb, the initiative seeks to turn grief into positive change by delivering sweet treats to those who provide end-of-life care.
Pilgrims Hospices
Pilgrims Hospices is a leading provider of hospice care in east Kent. Committed to delivering compassionate and personalised end-of-life care, the hospice charity plays a crucial role in supporting individuals and their families during challenging times.
About Faversham Town Walking Football
Faversham Town Walking Football is a local sports group dedicated to promoting health and well-being through the joy of walking football. Engaging in community initiatives like the Chocolate Orange Challenge, the group aims to make a positive impact beyond the sports field.
