Kiren Vyas: From pharmacy to Pilgrims’ Walk and Talk Volunteer
For Kiren Vyas, caring for people is more than a profession – it’s a life philosophy rooted in lived experience, cultural values, and deep empathy.
With a career in pharmacy spanning over 30 years, Kiren has always focused on improving quality of life through medicine and people-centred care.
Today, he shares that same compassion as a volunteer for Pilgrims Hospices’ Stepping Stones Bereavement Supportprogramme, co-facilitating Walk and Talk groups across east Kent.
Kiren ran Brighton Marathon 2024 for Pilgrims
Born in Uganda to Indian parents, Kiren and his family were forced to flee the country during the 1972 expulsion of Asians under Idi Amin’s regime:
“My mum was visiting the UK at the time, and my dad called to say we weren’t going back. We had nothing – no home, no money – and had to start again.”
After a few years in London, the family settled in South Wales, running a corner shop in the Rhondda Valley:
“We experienced racism and hardship, but those early struggles shaped me. They taught me the importance of resilience, kindness, and community.”
These values were nurtured further by Kiren’s Hindu upbringing and close-knit family:
“My father and Mum always stressed the importance of treating others with dignity and supporting one another – something I still carry and instil in my own family today.”
After studying pharmacy at Bradford and earning a PhD in Cardiff, Kiren developed a broad and accomplished career in the pharmaceutical industry, in drug product development and commercial manufacture in various therapeutic areas, including HIV, cardiology, respiratory and oncology. In 2019, he was selected for GSK’s prestigious PULSE programme, spending six months with Save the Children, which included supporting activities in Kenya:
“It was a turning point – returning to East Africa reminded me of where I came from and why people-focused work is so important.”
Kiren at Brighton Marathon 2024
In 2020, Kiren’s father died in hospice care, an experience that stayed with him:
“The staff at St Christopher’s supported Dad and our whole family with such dignity and care. It was unforgettable and inspired me to give something back to the community and volunteer.”
Kiren has been living in Canterbury since 1998 and is currently working as a pharmaceutical consultant. He gives his time to Pilgrims’ Stepping Stones Walk and Talk group:
“We walk, we talk, we listen. Whether we’re discussing running, fishing, computing or knitting, or understanding the grief, the friendships formed between individuals are real and lasting. We support each other.”
Also a passionate fundraiser, Kiren completed the Brighton Marathon for Pilgrims in 2024 and is training for the Manchester Marathon in 2026:
“Volunteering gives me purpose. I’ve always believed that when we take care of others, we find connection – and meaning – for ourselves, too.”
For more information about bereavement support available or to access any of our services, please call us on 01233 504 127 or email [email protected].
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.
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.
11th June 2025
Fiona’s Kilimanjaro climb raises thousands for Pilgrims Hospices
At 62, Fiona Dobson from Canterbury proved she’s no stranger to a challenge when she successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in June 2025, raising an incredible £5,300 for Pilgrims Hospices, where she volunteers as a Ward Support Volunteer.
Fiona Dobson, Ward Support Volunteer at Pilgrims Hospices
“I paid for the trip myself because I didn’t want any of the fundraising to go towards costs – I wanted every penny raised to support the care Pilgrims offers,” Fiona said.
Fiona’s connection to Pilgrims spans nearly 40 years. She began her nursing career at the hospice in 1986 and has worked as a district nurse, practice nurse, and still does freelance vaccination work.
“I started my career here, and I’d like to finish it here too. Volunteering on the ward once a week means a lot – it’s special. I love it.”
Fiona has experienced the value of hospice care personally, having lost her dad at Pilgrims, a close friend, and her husband’s brother more recently.
“It’s more than the beds – it’s the support for families, friends, and the counselling. That makes all the difference.”
An experienced hillwalker, Fiona had already tackled the Yorkshire Three Peaks, parts of the Alps and Pyrenees, and over 50 Scottish “Fionas” – lesser-known peaks once called Grahams – plus several Munros and Corbetts.
“There are often no paths on the Fionas – it’s rough terrain, but that’s what I love. Kilimanjaro took it to a new level.”
She trained hard for the challenge, running the Kent Downs, doing yoga, gym sessions, and cycling events – including Pilgrims’ Cycle Challenge.
“I did the 50-mile route a few weeks before the climb. It was windy – one of the toughest yet! I only recently found out a photo of me from the 2017 event is on a Pilgrims van!”
Fiona Dobson 2
Fiona Dobson 3
Fiona and friends fundraising for Pilgrims Hospices
Now retired and with two grown-up children, Fiona enjoys walking her dogs on the White Cliffs and embracing new adventures. She completed the Kilimanjaro trek with a friend, as part of a group of 20, capturing the experience through photos.
“It was life-changing. I made new friends, and most importantly, it was all for Pilgrims. It’s a brilliant place and I’m proud to support it however I can.”
You’ll follow in the footsteps of great mountaineers on a breathtaking 16-day journey through the Himalayas, including an 11-day trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp.
Led by an experienced UK Mountain Leader and supported by local experts, this is a pilgrimage to top all others. From spectacular sunrises over the snow-capped peaks to gazing up at the mighty summit from Kala Patthar, it’s the adventure of a lifetime – and you could be part of Team Pilgrims.
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.
4th June 2025
Barbara’s volunteering journey with Pilgrims Hospices
Meet Barbara, who began volunteering with Pilgrims Hospices four years ago after searching for something new to fill her time with.
Barbara is a Collection Pot Coordinator, and makes sure that all our collection pots in Whitstable are replaced every few months, as well as finding new venues to host one, including pubs, cafes, hairdressers and newsagents.
Maxine and Barbara
She also enjoys supporting our fundraising events, and you will often see her manning our tombola stalls in the community or marshalling at our challenge events.
Volunteering is a way for Barbara to give back to a cause close to her heart. After experiencing first-hand the care her husband, Edd, received, she knew that when the time was right, she wanted to give a little something back.
“I was so overwhelmed by the care, compassion and respect Edd received, as well as myself and my family during what was a very difficult time.”
Barbara’s family also volunteer their time when they can, including her grandson, Freddie, who walked the Whitstable Carnival to raise awareness of Pilgrims, and her daughter, Maxine, who spent some time raising funds on one of our summer tombolas.
Barbara said: “I would recommend volunteering as it has given me a purpose and I feel privileged to be a volunteer, knowing I am making a difference. The sense of fulfilment is indescribable.”
Canterbury Community Fundraiser, Rachael Edmed says:
“We are always looking for enthusiastic, passionate people like Barbara who are able to donate some of their spare time to help us continue raising vital funds and making a difference. Whether you’re interested in supporting our fundraising events or manning a bucket collection, we welcome informal chats to see what volunteering for Pilgrims could offer you.”
Volunteers’ Week celebrates the amazing contributions volunteers make to communities across the UK. The celebration starts on the first Monday in June every year. It’s a chance to recognise, celebrate and thank the UK’s incredible volunteers for all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector, and society as a whole.
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 June 2024
Pilgrims Hospices Music and Media Sale draws enthusiastic crowd
On Saturday 18 May 2024, St. Peter’s Church Hall buzzed with activity as Pilgrims Hospices hosted a fantastic Music and Media Sale, attracting a large number of eager shoppers.
The event was a massive success, with numerous treasures found and many happy customers leaving with smiles and bags full of bargains.
The event, organised by Jonathan Gummer, Pilgrims’ E-commerce Manager, with his team, raised an impressive £3,025, all of which will support Pilgrims Hospices’ end-of-life care services.
The team expressed their delight at the outcome, stating, “The event was a pleasing success. We were thrilled by the turnout and the enthusiasm of attendees, many of whom have already expressed interest in seeing more events like this in the future.”
The sale featured a diverse range of pre-loved items, including DVDs, vinyl records, CDs, books, t-shirts, toys, and much more. Shoppers had the opportunity to purchase these items at affordable prices, making the event not only a fundraising triumph but also a cost-efficient shopping experience for all who attended.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this event such a wonderful success for Pilgrims Hospices. Your support enables us to continue providing essential care to those in need.
Pilgrims’ eBay team
One of the standout benefits of the sale was its emphasis on environmental sustainability. By promoting the purchase of pre-loved items, the event contributed to reducing waste and the demand for new products. This eco-friendly approach aligns with Pilgrims Hospices’ commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Shoppers were able to find unique items while also knowing that they were making a positive impact on the environment.
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Additionally, the event showcased the financial advantages of buying second-hand. With the rising costs of new media and merchandise, purchasing pre-loved items offers a more affordable alternative without compromising on quality. Many attendees were delighted to find rare and valuable items at a fraction of their original cost.
Volunteering played a crucial role in the success of the event. Pilgrims Hospices relies heavily on the dedication and support of its volunteers. The Music and Media Sale was no exception, with numerous volunteers helping to organise, set up, and manage the event. Their efforts were instrumental in ensuring everything ran smoothly and efficiently.
The success of the Music and Media Sale was a testament to the community’s support and the hard work of everyone involved. Pilgrims’ eBay team extended their heartfelt thanks to all who attended and contributed to the event: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this event such a wonderful success for Pilgrims Hospices. Your support enables us to continue providing essential care to those in need.”
Overall, the Pilgrims Hospices Music and Media Sale was not just a fundraising success but also an event that brought the community together, promoted sustainable shopping practices, and highlighted the importance of supporting local charities. With the positive feedback and the enthusiasm shown by attendees, there is a strong possibility that similar events will be organised in the future, further benefiting Pilgrims Hospices and the community it serves.
Date for your diary
The next Music and Media Sale is planned for Saturday 14 December 2024; keep an eye on Pilgrims Hospices’ website and social media for updates.
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.
5th June 2024
Lois-Jane celebrates fantastic volunteering journey with Pilgrims Hospices
Lois-Jane Thompson, an NHS worker from Folkestone, has been volunteering for Pilgrims Hospices since the charity’s earliest days.
After her father, John, died from cancer in 1975 aged 47, her mother, Sylvia, began home sitting for other local people to give families some much-needed respite; an initiative started by Ann Robertson, Pilgrims’ founder and lifetime president, and Christine Pledger, a founding fundraiser of the charity. At the same time, fundraising got underway to build the first hospice, and so began Lois-Jane’s lifelong volunteering journey.
I work full-time, I have a very busy family life, and I do only as much as I am happy with – but I also feel that the little I do is truly appreciated.
Lois-Jane
Lois-Jane said: “We didn’t have the benefit of a hospice when my father died, but we did have a Marie Curie nurse, and I’m so pleased that the hospices are now there for others.
“My mother was involved with monthly coffee mornings at the Holy Trinity Church in Folkestone and bucket collections at local shops and Eurotunnel. She sold Christmas Cards, daffodils and Christmas bells at various locations. Our family supported her when we could. When evening fundraising events began, my mother didn’t feel up to this, but my sister, Katy, and I jumped in wholeheartedly to help with registrations, and we haven’t looked back! Over the years, I’ve been involved with so many Pilgrims events – never missing a year! Even during the COVID-19 pandemic when events were held virtually, I did what I could to share and help publicise them.
Lois-Jane at the Cycle Challenge 2024
“Due to my own ill-health, I’m unable to walk, run or cycle to raise money for Pilgrims, which is why I help with registrations. And please don’t ask me to bake a cake!”
Lois-Jane enjoys every aspect of her role at Pilgrims events, meeting people and joining in with the bustling, uplifting energy of the day. She is often recognisable by her trademark pink cowboy hat.
She added: “I love checking people in and being there to welcome them back, congratulate them and put a medal around their neck; it’s truly rewarding. I always thank them for helping to raise funds by pushing themselves to run, walk or cycle, and they thank me back – but I say: “I do what I do because I can’t do what you do!” The money wouldn’t be raised if people didn’t take part in events, but without the people behind the scenes the events couldn’t be held – and so I feel we’re all doing our bit. I think it is testament to how well things are organised by the fundraising team that we see new and old faces year after year taking part, and I have made some good friends along the way.”
And what would Lois-Jane say to someone who is considering volunteering for Pilgrims?
“Please do it! There are so many different roles and there is no commitment beyond what you are happy to do, be it an hour holding a collecting bucket or spending all day at an event. There are also various roles available within the hospices and local shops. I work full-time, I have a very busy family life, and I do only as much as I am happy with – but I also feel that the little I do is truly appreciated.”
Volunteers’ Week celebrates the amazing contributions volunteers make to communities across the UK. The celebration starts on the first Monday in June every year. It’s a chance to recognise, celebrate and thank the UK’s incredible volunteers for all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector, and society as a whole.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
