Under sunny skies, more than 900 people came out to walk or run the Mud Creek Trail for the third annual Hike for Hospice on Sunday.
The total raised after expenses was $145,000 to support the ongoing operational needs of Chatham-Kent Hospice.
The hike kicked off with the 5 km Fun Run at 1 p.m. and the hike followed at 2 p.m.
Co-chairs Nathan and Amanda McKinlay announced the top individual fundraiser, Jennifer Wilson; the top family team, Lou’s Crew; and the corporate challenge winner, Kent & Essex Mutual Insurance.
Many hikers were walking in memory of someone and took the opportunity to tie a ribbon on the Memory Wall to honour their loved one.
“We are overwhelmed and truly grateful for the amazing turn out at this year’s Hike for Hospice. Thank you to everyone who participated as a runner, walker or donor. Your support allows hospice to continue to offer end-of-life care to families when they need it the most,” said Jodi Maroney, executive director of the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation, in a media release. “A special thank you to the many volunteers and sponsors who made this event possible.”
The fundraising walk coincided with the start of National Palliative Care week when achievements of hospice palliative care are shared and celebrated throughout Canada. It also coincided with the third anniversary of operations for Chatham-Kent Hospice. Over the past three years, Chatham-Kent Hospice has cared for almost 600 families from across the municipality.
Residents and their families receive compassionate, end-of-life care at no cost to the family thanks to support from the community.
