Despite the lingering snow on the ground, it’s time to start thinking about participating in a nice spring walk.
The Chatham-Kent Hospice is marking its 10th year serving local families, and one of its key fundraisers, Hike for Hospice, is slated for May 3 along Mud Creek Trail in Chatham.
Brock McGregor, executive director of the Foundation of the Chatham-Kent Hospice, said he’ll experience the walk as a part of the initiative for the first time this year, but lives near Mud Creek Trail, the site of the walk, and has seen the emotions of walkers.
“It’s really interesting for that whole week to see the memorial signs go up,” He said of the signs that are erected in memory of loved ones who were served by the hospice during their end-of-life care. “You walk the path and realize how many people in the community are impacted by it (the hospice).
And it’s not just the patient.
“Their friends, their family – how deeply that impacts the community,” McGregor said. “Hospice has been a really important organization in the community. The work is incredible and it makes a real difference for people.”
Signs for the walk are put up a week prior. This allows people to walk early, if they so desire, and to showcase hospice stories to others who use Mud Creek Trail.
“Some folks take the opportunity to walk the path early. People don’t have to go day of,” McGregor said. “They can really just walk from the 27th (of April) right up until Hike Day, and use it as part of their memory process.”
Last year delivered something rarely seen on previous Hike days – rain. But McGregor said a little rain didn’t dampen spirits.
“Even with that hiccup with Mother Nature, it was still well attended and we still saw incredible community support,” he said.
Despite the rain, the event raised $174,000, well past its goal of $150,000. This year’s goal is $160,000.
“All those funds go right into supporting services at the hospice, both in residential care and in bereavement services,” McGregor said. “It’s one of our big three fundraisers and is an opportunity to recognized the impact it (hospice) has had on our community; for people to celebrate the memory of loved ones.”
McGregor said hospice officials encourage participants to sign up in advance.
“Get pledges from family members, friends and co-workers. Help support the services as they continue into the future,” he said.
On the day of the event, pre-hike activities begin at noon and include live music, memorial activities, lawn games, kids’ activities and more. Following a few announcements, participants will head out on the trail at 2 p.m.
“We invite people of all abilities to sign up, collect pledges and enjoy time together as a family,” said Rebecca Smyth, Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation board member. “As we celebrate 10 years of hospice care in our community, Hike for Hospice is a meaningful way to remember loved ones who have passed and honour them by paying it forward to other families in Chatham-Kent.”
For more information, to register, or to begin collecting pledges, visit www.hikeforhospiceck.com.
