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.
30th June 2025
Great cause brings art community and hospice supporters together
On Saturday 28 June 2025, Pilgrims Hospices held its 100 Pieces of Art charity auction, raising an incredible £9,550 for local hospice care.
Held at the Anthony Giles Studio in Margate, the event brought together visitors, artists, and generous donors to experience the excitement of a live auction for a great cause.
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager, said: “It has been very exciting to collaborate with Anthony Giles. His studio was the perfect venue to showcase the wonderful pieces of artwork so generously donated.”
Throughout the week leading up to the auction, visitors were invited to view the full collection, before bidding commenced at 1pm on Saturday.
Retired auctioneer James Linington, from The Canterbury Auction Galleries, brought charm, humour, and professionalism to the occasion, delighting the crowd with each fall of the gavel and celebration of winning bids.
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The auction featured a diverse mix of artwork and collectables donated by local and nationally renowned artists. Among the standout moments was the bidding for a piece by Tracey Emin, which drew considerable attention and applause as the successful bidder was announced.
Karen continued: “People not only had the opportunity to add exceptional artwork to their collections, but also contributed to the vital work of Pilgrims Hospices.”
“I would like to personally thank Anthony Giles and James Linington for their unwavering support. The event was made extra special thanks to the hard work of our marketing team, many dedicated Pilgrims volunteers, our generous sponsor Copy Shop Printers, and of course, everyone who donated artwork or placed a bid.”
“Thank you once again. We hope everyone who took home a piece enjoys their art as much as we enjoyed receiving and displaying it.”
For more details, contact Karen Kenward on 01843 233 934.
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.
5th June 2025
Why I support Pilgrims Hospices: Sarah’s story
“I always imagined hospices were marvellous places, but until I experienced it myself, I didn’t know just how exceptional everything and everyone would be.”
My Dad was a true Londoner – bold, big-hearted and full of life. His voice could fill a room, and so could his warmth. He was so generous with his time and embodied the spirit of community in every way, proudly inheriting the family picture-frame making business ‘Mann & Sons.’ In his later years, he moved to Kent and found real comfort in the slower pace of life and bracing sea air.
After Dad had his stroke, it was heart-breaking to see someone who had always been so strong and independent suddenly become so vulnerable. As his final days were drawing closer, he told me that he wanted to die at home, but this wasn’t possible since he needed too much attention.
In the end, however, I feel very grateful that he ended up in the care of the Thanet hospice. It was the best thing that could’ve happened and from the moment we came through the door, I knew we were in fantastic hands.
The small things will always stay with me: the hand-knitted quilts on each bed, to the radio that appeared in his room after I mentioned his love of listening to it. These thoughtful touches, to me, show the true meaning of care – acts of decency, kindness and generosity given for nothing in return.
Sarah and her dad
There are many touching moments I recall in those difficult days, but the one that sticks in my mind most is sharing Dad’s final sunset with him. He’d asked for this specifically and even though the nurses were busy, at shift’s end, they made the time to attach rollers to his bed and wheel him outside. I sat with him, holding his hand, and we watched the sky turn red. I could see what this meant to him.
Twelve hours later, he lapsed into unconsciousness – I had slept in a chair by his bed until that moment and the nurses brought me a blanket for the night. I carried on sleeping there until the moment he died, and afterwards helped the nurses and volunteers bathe him and dress him in clean pyjamas. Their compassion and respect was astonishing, and after they’d taken him away, they handed me an envelope addressed ‘Sarah’ containing a hand-knitted heart and a poem. I still have them both.
My Dad has been gone close to three years now, but I feel his spirit in everything I do. He passed at 80 and when people say he had a good life – and he really did – it doesn’t lessen the loss. Keeping his memory alive is so important to me, and seeing his name on the Memory Tree really touches me. I wanted to support Pilgrims yearly, and it’s such a wonderful way to do so, on a beautiful installation where his memory is kept alive.
I will never be able to repay Pilgrims Hospices for everything they did – they care for the people sitting around the bed as much as the person lying in it. Leaving a gift to Pilgrims in my Will is my way of saying one final thank you, in memory of my Dad and with deep gratitude for all they did for both of us.
If you’re inspired by Sarah’s story and would like to support Pilgrims Hospices, there are many ways you can:
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.
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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.
8th April 2025
Pilgrims Hospices launches exciting Mystery Bag event in Margate
Pilgrims Hospices is inviting bargain hunters and fashion lovers alike to take part in their brand new Mystery Bag event, launching on Thursday 10 April at its Margate Discount store.
For just £5, shoppers can pick up a pre-packed Mystery Bag bursting with at least seven items of ladies’ clothing. Whether you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe, love the thrill of a surprise, or want to support a local cause, these bags promise incredible value and sustainable shopping all in one.
“This is such a fun way for our customers to get great fashion at a low price while supporting the work of Pilgrims Hospices,” says Elizabeth Hilden, Shop Manager at Margate Discount store.
“We hope to develop the Mystery Bags idea as we move forward, with themed bags for stag and hen parties and collections inspired by the amazing gigs and events coming to Dreamland this summer.
“Festival lovers will love grabbing a bag to suit a retro band look or a fun-filled day out. The bags are a great way to extend your existing wardrobe, try out new outfit styles, and add a little something different – all at the bargain price of just £5. Why not give it a try?”
The Margate Mystery Bag will be an ongoing feature at the shop, with fresh drops and new surprises added regularly – so there’s always a reason to pop in and see what’s in store.
The initiative reflects a growing trend in charity retail – combining the joy of second-hand shopping with a lucky dip experience. Across the UK, similar events have proven popular with students, vintage lovers, and eco-conscious shoppers alike.
Mystery Bags help reduce waste, give pre-loved clothes a new home, and raise vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices, which provides free end-of-life care to people across east Kent.
But be quick – we think they will go fast!
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
