St Mary’s much-loved 10 mile fundraising challenge, Walk to Remember event is back!
The event, which is enjoyed by hundreds of families across the region, was cancelled last year because of lockdown restrictions. Friday, September 24th will see it make a triumphant return.
Just 17 percent of the money the hospice needs every year comes via the NHS, with the rest having to be generated by fundraising activities. Walk to Remember has become one of the most popular ways for local people to get involved.
In previous years the event has raised thousands of pounds of vital funds to help the hospice providing patients with expert care and compassion so those affected by advancing illness have comfort, choice and dignity, either at the hospice or at home. As well as emotional support for them and their families – services that are needed more than ever in the months ahead due to the impact of the pandemic.
Generously sponsored by leading offshore wind farm developer Ørsted, the Walk to Remember is an opportunity for people of all ages to come together paying tribute to loved ones who are gone but will never be forgotten, sharing precious memories and creating new ones as they proudly step along the streets of Ulverston to Barrow-in-Furness for the sponsored walk.
Mel Dixon, St Mary’s Hospice Events and Challenges Lead: “If ever there was a year for coming together and walk in memory of our loved ones then 2021 is it. We can’t wait to welcome our supporters back.
“Families and friends can join in, making memories, having fun and raising money for the Hospice along the way. The walk begins at our amazing hosts Ulverston Leisure and ends at Furness Academy, where walkers will be presented with a commemorative medal, and well-earned treats! Our Walk To Remember is one of our biggest annual events and we missed everyone so much last year. We are excited to be back, in our community and reuniting with our fabulous supporters, each person brings something special to our event.
“We are very aware that as we move towards the lifting of restrictions, that it has been a difficult time for so many. There is sadness for those who have been bereaved, without that special person by their side. It is also possible that for some, our Walk to Remember could even be the first time they are reunited in person with friends and family they have been unable to be with, because of the pandemic, which means it will be a very emotional occasion.”
The walk is sponsored by leading offshore wind farm developer Ørsted, which operates four projects, off the coast of Cumbria, including the Walney Extension which is the world’s largest offshore wind farm.
Janet Gilmour, Ørsted said: “Ørsted are proud to be in partnership with St. Mary’s Hospice and know only too well the challenges they have faced raising funds during the pandemic.
“It is fantastic that the W2R can go ahead safely at last and being a part of the community is something very important to Ørsted. Many of us working in Barrow are from the area and it means a lot to us to support this event.”
Supporters can register for this year’s walk via St Mary’s website: www.stmaryshospice.org.uk and follow St Mary’s on facebook, twitter and Instagram for the latest updates. Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for 8 – 16yr olds, with adults pledging a minimum sponsorship of £30. There is even a special early bird offer of £7.50 for those signing up to the date before 25th July 2021.
If you would like more information about St Mary’s Hospice services including Family and Bereavement Support please call on 01229 580305 or visit www.stmaryshospice.org.uk