Hospice News

Fundraising Stories

The Horts Hunnies, regular fundraisers for the Hospice, are back in action and taking part in our brand-new event, the Cold Water Dip! So far, they've raised over £31,000 for the Hospice in memory of family members cared for over the years.

Here, Gemma tells us more about what the Hospice means to her, and why she's braving the chilly water this December.

"The Hospice is a very special place for our family and close friends. St Peter's have cared for my dad Tony, his Mum (my Nan) Joan, my sister Carly, and most recently my lovely father-in-law, John. He received Hospice at Home care and we sadly lost him earlier in October. 

John, Gemma's father-in-law

"My sister Carly had been in the BRI due to pain and breathlessness, as a result of her secondary breast cancer diagnosis back in January 2022. As there were still some COVID restrictions in place at that time, only one nominated person was able to visit Carly, and that was her partner Mark. This meant that when she was given the devastating news that there were no more treatment options available to her, and that she would now be receiving end of life care, she wasn't with her family. 

Carly, Gemma's sister

"Carly had always, from the day that she knew her diagnosis was terminal, wanted to spend her last days at St Peter's Hospice. When she got the referral whilst in the BRI there was an overwhelming relief, not just for us as her family but for her too. She knew she was going to be in the best place.

"The moment she was transferred and settled into her room at the Hospice there was a feeling of "she's here and she's safe".

"The staff both at the Hospice itself, and from the Hospice at Home team go above and beyond for every patient. They gave my father-in-law John his dignity, washing him, giving him a shave, dressing him, making him comfortable and also allowing my mother-in-law and sister-in-law some respite for just a few hours. 

"We have visited the Hospice several times over the years. Mostly for their Light Up a Life service at Christmas but also to visit the two leaves we have on the remembrance tree for Dad and Carly. 

"So far we have raised £31,690 for St Peter's Hospice which has been donated to Tony & Carly Horton's tribute fund, and we plan to add more by taking part in this year's Cold Water Dip in December."

Take part in the Cold Water Dip