St Barnabas House Sunrise to Remember walkers set to raise £15k

Held on September 12, the event replaced the hospice’s annual Nigh to Remember fundraiser, which could not go ahead because of Covid-19.

The virtual event saw hundreds of local residents setting off from their own homes at sunrise on a seven-mile walk in memory of their loved ones.

Many of those who took part did so in memory of a family member or friend cared for by the hospice, including eight-year old, Beth Hamilton from Worthing who walked with her mother, Marie Hamilton, in memory of her Nanna, Kate Gladden who was cared for by St Barnabas House in 2015.

“I wanted to take part in Sunrise to Remember because my Mummy has done it every year and I wanted to join in, too,” said Beth.

“I’m walking for my Nanna, because the nurses were really kind and lovely when she was poorly.”

Marie added: “Mum and Beth were so close so it’s lovely for her to be able to take part and so special for me to have her by my side doing the walk together. St Barnabas looked after Mum so well, so it is the least we can do to say thank you.”

Anthony Ledword, 42, of Littlehampton, took on the challenge in honour of his late partner, Paul Reynolds, who sadly passed away at the hospice in January, 2016.

He said: “St Barnabas was there to support not only Paul, but all his family and friends. The staff there all made sure that Paul was always comfortable and treated with dignity and respect.

“At first, Paul and myself wanted him to spend his last days at home, but as things moved very quick it was better to have him in the hospice where he would receive 24/7 care.

“I think this virtual event has been a great idea as, in view of these difficult times, we are still able to go on Facebook and see and support each other during the event, and raise money for charity.”

The Night to Remember midnight walk had taken place for the last 12 years and events fundraiser Sophie Henderson said St Barnabas was determined to make the event possible, in some way, this year.

She said: “Of course, it wasn’t the same as being able to set off all together as in previous years, but it was amazing to see so many people coming together virtually. The atmosphere was incredible, with walkers joining together live on the St Barnabas House Facebook page at 6am before setting out on their own seven-mile route.”

To find out how to get involved with upcoming events for St Barnbas, visit www.stbh.org.uk/challenge-events