Under sunny skies, over 900 people came out to walk or run the Mud Creek Trail for the 3rd Annual Hike for Hospice on Sunday, May 5, 2019. The total raised after expenses was $145,000.00 to support the ongoing operational needs of Chatham-Kent Hospice.
The hike kicked off with the 5 km Fun Run at 1 pm with the hike at 2 pm. 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. Maria Whittal lead the group in singing “O Canada” and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 642 Pipe Band provided an honour guard as the hikers took to the trail. 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. A special thank you to the many volunteers and sponsors who made this event possible including our lead sponsors the Chatham Lions Club, MC Business Solutions & MicroAge,” said Jodi Maroney – Executive Director, Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation.
The fundraising walk coincided with the start of National Palliative Care week where we celebrate and share achievements of hospice palliative care throughout Canada. It also coincided with the 3rd anniversary of
operations for Chatham-Kent Hospice. Over the past 3 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 generous support from the community.
About Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation:
The Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation is responsible for the fundraising activities needed to support Chatham-Kent Hospice. Our Mission is to enhance the financial sustainability of the Chatham-Kent Hospice by working with the community to raise funds, awareness and understanding to enable compassionate, quality near end-of-life experiences for the residents of Chatham-Kent. We require $106,000 in donations each month to support the operating needs of the Hospice.
About Chatham-Kent Hospice:
The Chatham-Kent Hospice is a 10-bed residential facility that offers care for residents facing end of life and support for their loved ones. The hospice provides comfort, support and specialized pain and symptom management in a home-like setting. Around the clock care is provided by dedicated physicians, nurses, personal support workers and volunteers. Since opening in April 2016, Chatham-Kent Hospice has cared for over 600 families. In order to offer these services at no cost to residents or their families, Chatham-Kent Hospice relies on donations from our community. Support is received through direct donations, memorial donations and other fundraising revenue.
To learn more, visit www.chathamkenthospice.com or call 519-354-3113.
