Having lived and worked in Chichester and the local area for all my life, the Hospice walk has always been something that we have been proud to take part in, to raise money and awareness for a local charity that makes such a difference for people when they need it most.

Over the years, we have walked the 5 mile and the 10-mile routes, sometimes just a couple of us, and sometimes more, but we have been there every year to take part and raise money. When we first started, there was always room on the back of the t-shirt where you could write, who you were walking for. Over the years, this became a special card which you could decorate, add photos, and write a message to the loved ones you were walking for. Each year the list of names grew longer.

For the last few years, my dad has been on that special card, as someone I walk for. For us to have the opportunity to give back to the hospice that have helped us to guide him through his diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis. They have given us the support, and tools to make sure that throughout Dad’s illness we have had somewhere/someone to turn too, and that was priceless. We came to know the hospice very well throughout Dad’s illness. He was admitted several times, for symptom control and also in helping him to get him back to a level that would see him be able to go home again, where he ultimately always wanted to be. Back in his favourite chair, home.

This year sadly, we will be walking in memory of my dad. Supported at home by the hospice nurses, Dad got his wish to be at home when he passed. The care and support we received, from his diagnosis, right through to even attending his funeral, was unwavering and this is a small way we can help give back.

My favourite part of the walk is when it takes you into Priory Park’s Guildhall. Inside, soft music plays, candles light the room softly and you are given the opportunity to sit and reflect on the walk, and to write a note to our loved ones so they know how much they are loved and missed. I know that this year, my favourite part of the walk will also be the hardest part as I will be writing to the Dad I miss so very much.

The Hospice and its nurses, doctors and all the employees and volunteers, don’t just care for the person who is ill, they are there for the families too. You might think it’s a sad place, but its surprisingly a bright and uplifting place, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Copious amounts of tea, Bovril and ice-cream (one scoop of each!) was consumed by Dad whilst he stayed at the hospice. We will never forget the people who looked after our most precious dad, and that is why we will be taking part in the Moonlight walk 2026.