Over 300 walk in memory of loved ones and raise £37,000 so far for hospice care.

More than 300 people came together to walk in memory of loved ones and to help raise over £37,000 for people and families who need the care of Saint Francis Hospice.

The hospice hosted its first ever Memory Walk in Raphael’s Park in Romford on Sunday 8th September where supporters set off on a 3k or 5k loop with their families, friends and their dogs.

The Romford Drum and Trumpet Corps led the way and entertained supporters throughout the day and there was more music and entertainment along the route for people to enjoy.

“This was our first ever Memory Walk and it was such a fantastic day,” said Charlotte Winder, Events Manager at Saint Francis Hospice. 

“We are so grateful to everyone who came along with big hearts and big smiles. It was very emotional as many people were walking in memory of people they loved and miss.  

“A very special thank you to our sponsor Harold Hill Funeral Services and everyone who volunteered and helped to make the day so special.”

Robina walked with her children Habiba, Arbaaz and Zeeshaan, in memory of her husband Javed who died in January.  

“The care Javed received over the seven weeks he was at the hospice was phenomenal,” said Robina.  

“The staff and volunteers are worth their weight in gold. We could go home in the evening knowing he was taken care of.  

“That’s why we walked today and why we will always continue raising money for Saint Francis Hospice.”

Lorna Clason walked with her family and friends in memory of her mum Sarah who died at the hospice on 20 September 2020. 

“I am epileptic, and I can’t do runs or most events, so it was amazing to be able to do the Memory Walk and raise £860. 

“It was really hard to walk 3km but I’ve had so much support, not just from people sponsoring me, but also from my family and friends. 

“I am so proud of myself and I know my mum is proud of me and she is smiling down on me. It means so much that I have been able to contribute to the people who let my mum go with the peace and dignity that she deserved.”

Elaine Hurst, who was walking in memory of her sister Jan with her family and friends, said, “It has been an amazing day and it was so well organised.  

“We all love a walk on a Sunday morning, so this was perfect for us. Everyone at the hospice is wonderful. They are so caring, they are angels.”

Linda Binks walked in memory of her mum who was cared for by the charity’s Hospice at Home team.  

“Coming here today to do the Memory Walk means everything to me,” said Linda. 

“I am able to give Saint Francis a tiny bit back for what they did for my mum. 

“When I told people I was doing the walk, they all said what a great cause. The hospice has touched most people I know at some time or another.”

Carolyn Black who was walking with her cousin Lorraine Doyle, in memory of her mum Janet, said, “We really appreciated the support the hospice gave Mum.  

“They looked after her so well. We are here to remember the good times and to raise money for a good cause.”

Amy Sheraton, who was with her boys Tommy, 3, and Teddy 1, and their family, walked in memory of her dad Ray. 

“It has been such a lovely experience today with the family and so great that the boys could be involved too,” said Amy. 

“The care and support he received in March 2020 was amazing and we couldn’t have asked for more.”

Vicky Nelson, who was walking with her daughters Poppy and Daisy in memory of her husband Gary, said, “It has been such a wonderful day and such a lovely way to keep Gary’s memory alive while supporting Saint Francis Hospice. 

“The children had a toy and book sale yesterday and raised £100.  

“So far we’ve raised £864. We’ve got a great support network, and we’re so delighted we were able to raise so much money for the hospice.”

Nuala Dimitriou, who walked in memory of her dad John, said, “There was an amazing atmosphere, and it was so lovely to all be united for one cause in memory of our loved ones. Well done Saint Francis Hospice.”

Laura Kavanagh, who was walking with her family in memory of her mother-in-law and father-in-law, said, “Saint Francis Hospice is such a great cause, and it was great coming together with friends and people who have been through loss. 

“It has been a lovely day and we’ve all had fun. It is fantastic that the band finished by playing my father-in-law’s favourite song, Sweet Caroline.”