Thousands of people set to walk for those needing hospice care
This year’s Markovitz Showroom Sparkle Night Walk is set to be bigger than ever, with over 2,000 people already signed up to take part. The Hospice is hoping to smash last year’s records and reach over 3,000 walkers, enabling Ashgate Hospicecare to get one step closer to funding a 24/7 Hospice at Home team to keep people at home.
One participant who is set to sparkle in aid of Ashgate Hospicecare is 38 year old Suzanne Leusby from Chesterfield, alongside her 11 year old daughter Tayla.
Suzanne said:-
“Tayla and I are taking part in the Sparkle Night Walk in memory of my mother-in-law and Tayla’s Nannie Margaret, who was cared for by Ashgate Hospicecare and sadly passed away from cancer on 2nd March 2017 aged 68. We’re also walking in memory of both of Tayla’s granddads, who passed away from cancer too.
“Whenever Tayla and my son Joshua (6) visited the hospice, they felt very comfortable and kept asking when they could go back. Joshua loved the play area, and because they both felt completely at ease there, they were able to enjoy their time visiting their Nan and be themselves – which brought a lot of smiles all round.
“We weren’t sure what to expect at first, but as soon as we entered the hospice we were immediately shown where everything was and were made to feel completely welcome. Margaret also commented on how nice the hospice was and she loved her little private patio. They made sure she was well looked after during the time she had left and respected her wishes for the care that she wanted. She had not long lost her husband to cancer and the family were still struggling with the loss, so it really helped knowing that she was getting all the help she needed.”
Tayla added:-
“I liked visiting my Nannie at the hospice more than in hospital because Ashgate were very welcoming to me and my little brother. They looked after my Nannie very well, like making sure she liked what she was eating and getting her ready for the day. I like Ashgate Hospicecare because while my Nannie was eating, there was a play room for me and my little brother to play in.”
When asked what Tayla was most looking forward to about Sparkle, Suzanne said: “She’s really excited about doing the walk at night and staying out late! She can’t wait to get all dressed up in bunny ears with her friends whilst raising money for a well deserved charity in memory of her Nannie.”
If you’d like to find out more about the Sparkle Night Walk click here.
