Pilgrims Hospices helps Margaret to realise musical theatre dreams
Margaret Grand from Wingham grew up in Canterbury. With a keen interest in singing and theatre, she did choral singing at school and sang in choirs later in life – including with Ann Robertson, Pilgrims Hospices’ founder, who Margaret knew from her village community.
John and Margaret on their wedding day
As a teenager, Margaret was offered the opportunity to study at the prestigious Italia Conti performing arts institution, but her mother wouldn’t let her go; Margaret was an only child, and her mother was afraid she would move away and not return home.
Margaret instead began working at Boots in Canterbury city centre, where she met her husband, John, who was also a musician. Together, they played in bands and performed locally.
In 2021, Margaret was diagnosed with cancer and received a life-limiting prognosis. Since being referred to Pilgrims Hospices, she has had a second chance to flex her theatrical prowess through a project with the Marlowe Theatre – showing how hospice care is not only for those at the end-of-life, but also empowers people to live well, and fully, in the time they have left.
Margaret said:
“I’d had problems with my leg, I kept getting cellulitis; I was going to the GP surgery regularly to have dressings on. The nurse noticed a spot on my leg, which started to change colour, so she asked the doctor to check it and he did an urgent referral. A biopsy at Kent & Canterbury hospital showed that I had Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare type of skin cancer. The nurses explained that I’d need to go to Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead for treatment, and have scans for five years.
“In 2022, I started to get large tumours on my leg, and I got upset every time I had it dressed. I remember the nurse, Bonnie, saying: “Margaret, I can understand why you get upset, because most people don’t see their tumours.” They just got worse and worse. I was sleeping on the sofa at home because I was so uncomfortable.
“Later that year, I went to see Les Miserables at the Marlowe Theatre with my daughter, Michelle. During the interval, I had to leave because I felt so unwell. A week later, I collapsed at home – I was just like a puppet. I called out to John, but he couldn’t get me up, so he phoned for an ambulance. I asked the paramedic to put me on the sofa and assured them I’d be OK, but they took my temperature and it was sky high, so they had to admit me to hospital, where I was diagnosed with sepsis. I was there for about a month, and I also caught COVID!”
Michelle added:
“Mum was discharged shortly before Christmas and was due to see her consultant around this time, but as she had been so unwell, I attended on her behalf. I explained what had happened, and the consultant was concerned. She said: “I can tell how ill your mum must be. I really think she needs palliative care, so I’m going to do a referral.” That was a massive shock; I came out of the appointment shaking. To me, palliative care meant Mum was at the end of life, on a downward spiral. But then things turned around very quickly; she was quite stable, and she started chemotherapy in January 2023.”
Margaret with her daughter, Michelle
Margaret continued: “They told me the chemo would be potent, could potentially make me very ill, and would cause me to lose my hair. On the whole, I was actually quite lucky; l didn’t feel sick at all and I pretty much sailed through the treatment. When I came out of hospital, they gave me a hospital bed at home, which made things a little easier. It was around this time that Pilgrims got in touch with me.”
Alongside pain management and symptom control, Margaret has benefitted from a range of wellbeing services at Pilgrims, including acupuncture and Wellbeing groups, through which she and other patients were involved in a musical theatre project with the Marlowe Theatre.
She also joins regular virtual meet-ups via Zoom, which offer an opportunity to connect with other patients from the comfort of their own homes.
In November 2023, John lost his balance and fell backwards at home, hit the back of his neck, severed his spinal cord and died within a week:
“Just like that. I couldn’t believe it; he’d been out cutting the grass that afternoon. He was 80. Since I’d been diagnosed, we’d always thought it was going to be me who went first – exactly a year before, when I was hospitalised with sepsis, it certainly looked that way.”
Pilgrims supported Margaret’s family through this very difficult time; her granddaughter, Holly, was offered counselling support as she struggled to cope with John’s sudden death.
Margaret was also invited for a Christmas meal at the Ashford hospice, where she could experience the environment in a relaxed, informal way.
She said: “I feel like everyone at Pilgrims is a friend, it’s a lovely community.
“I’ve got nothing but praise for the staff; they must see so many people, but they still know your name.
“Chatting with Palak from the Wellbeing team, I mentioned my love of singing and my interest in theatre, and she told me about a Hamlet-inspired project for patients that Pilgrims was facilitating with the Marlowe.
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Margaret took part in Hamlet workshops with the Marlowe Theatre at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury
“When I was at high school, I had a marvellous music teacher – Mr Sellers – who saw my potential. He put me in every single play, and I even sung in Canterbury Cathedral. I was also part of the Young Marlowe Theatre Playgoers; we’d do readings and put on the odd play, but it was more of a training programme. It was completely free to attend, but in return, we would go to the Marlowe and give out refreshments to the actors.
“My best friend, Catherine, was also into the theatre. Her father offered to pay for both of us to go to the Italia Conti performing arts school in London, but my mum wouldn’t let me go. And because I couldn’t go, Catherine wouldn’t go – I messed up her chances, too! I still feel guilty about that!
“We used to have village shows in Wingham, and I always took part in those. I also sang in a band with John on guitar and our friend, Dick; we’d go out gigging round the local pubs, we had so much fun. Whenever Michelle and I go to the Marlowe now, I always say to her: “I wish that was me on the stage”.”
Margaret’s husband, John (second from left), playing with the band
In 2024/25, Pilgrims organised a musical theatre project with the Marlowe, open to patients, families, staff and volunteers, which helped Margaret to realise her dream. Workshops were held at the Canterbury hospice Therapy Centre, facilitated by local performers Tom Adams and Lillian Henry, with guest speakers from the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC).
This culminated in the group writing and performing a song based around Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and a special event at the Marlowe in April 2025.
Margaret read a sonnet on stage and was invited to talk about her history with the theatre. She was also delighted to sit with an RSC representative during the event.
Margaret performing at the Marlowe Theatre in April 2025
She said: “I’m so touched that the RSC, and people like Tom and Lillian, will give their time to Pilgrims to create experiences like this for patients.”
Pilgrims continue to work closely with the Marlowe, and are planning another creative project in the near future.
Margaret added:
“Before I got involved with Pilgrims, I thought a hospice was a place you go to die. Now I know it’s so much more than that, and I tell everyone!
“I remember sitting in the Thanet hospice reception waiting for my acupuncture appointment. It wasn’t until my last session that I spotted the wards, which goes to show that hospices aren’t just beds on a ward.
“It’s totally different to what people think.
“Pilgrims don’t just offer end-of-life care, but also a whole range of wellbeing services and groups. It’s really opened my eyes.”
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.
16th October 2025
Pilgrims Hospices welcomes new Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally
Photograph by Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace
Pilgrims Hospices was honoured to welcome the new Archbishop of Canterbury-designate, the Most Reverend and Right Honourable, Sarah Mullally, on Friday 3 October 2025.
During her visit, Bishop Sarah met with members of the care team and trustees to learn more about Pilgrims’ work providing compassionate end-of-life care across east Kent. She heard first-hand how staff and volunteers support patients and their families to live well in every moment.
Prior to becoming an ordained minister for the Church of England, Bishop Sarah trained as a cancer nurse, and later became England’s Chief Nursing Officer. Her background in healthcare gave her a deep understanding of the importance of compassionate, person-centred care — something that resonated strongly with the Pilgrims teams she met during her visit.
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Photographs by Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace
The Archbishop spoke warmly with staff about their dedication and the difference they make every day to the lives of local people.
Karen Warden, Chair of Trustees for Pilgrims Hospices, added:
“It was a privilege to welcome Bishop Sarah to Pilgrims Hospices and to share our work with her. Her visit was both inspiring and affirming for our staff and volunteers, who give so much to care for others in our community.”
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to thousands of 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.
7th October 2025
Michael: “Pilgrims care makes me feel at ease”
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!”
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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.
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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!”
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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.
