Hundreds of supporters will come together at St Catherine’s Hospice as the charity’s biggest annual fundraiser returns to the hospice grounds this summer.

The popular Moonlight and Memories Walk has been held virtually for the past two years, and staff and supporters are excited to bring the event back to the gardens of St Catherine’s Park in Lostock Hall on Saturday 18 June.

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There are limited places available for the 10k sponsored challenge, so walkers are urged to sign up soon to take part in memory of their loved ones and to raise much-needed funds. The walk is open to everyone, and will set off at 8pm.

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Inpatient unit Sister Barbara Sutton has taken part in the night-time trek numerous times, and is looking forward to cheering on supporters in June.

She said: “It’s always a good feeling of anticipation when the walk starts from St Catherine’s, as the hospice is the reason so many people support the event; to raise funds and to remember those who have been cared for here.

“The patients and staff on duty enjoy seeing everyone getting ready, and they feel very much involved in the occasion as well. The excitement is palpable as supporters arrive.

“We get to know patients’ relatives very well during their time here, and they always acknowledge us on the night when they take part in the walk; it means a lot to see them again and catch up.

“People go to great lengths to dress up, and it’s lovely to read the many messages written on t-shirts as you walk along, and hear people talking together about their experiences.

“There is a real feeling of togetherness when walking alongside those who have been helped by the hospice at very emotional times in their lives. For me, it’s good to be involved in giving something back to the charity because as nurses, we really appreciate how much St Catherine’s relies on fundraising and the generosity of our supporters to help us year in and year out.

“The walk itself is a great experience as people cheer us on and shout words of encouragement along the way, even sitting in deck chairs outside their homes, waiting for us all to pass by and sometimes even offering us refreshments. The breakfast sandwiches back at the hospice are always a very welcome sight too!

“Everyone is in good spirits and we all wander home tired but elated at our achievements.”

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Emma Jacovelli, head of community engagement at St Catherine’s, added: “We really can’t wait to bring the Moonlight and Memories Walk back home. We know how much it means for our communities to come together at the hospice for this very special occasion, and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone again for a fantastic night to remember.

“We have 800 spaces available and our loyal supporters are already starting to sign up, so I’d encourage anyone who wishes to join us to get in touch soon to secure their place!

“Raising funds as part of #Team800 in honour of our loved ones will ensure our doctors and nurses can continue to care for our family, friends and neighbours today, tomorrow and in the future.”

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Registration is £15 for adults and £10 for children, which includes a t-shirt and medal. Any sponsorship raised will help fund the specialist palliative and end-of-life care provided by St Catherine’s at the hospice and in people’s own homes, as well as ongoing emotional and bereavement support the charity offers to patients’ families.
To sign up, please visit www.stcatherines.co.uk or call 01772 629171.

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