From bakers to singers, hill walkers and triathletes, our 7 for Severn virtual event proved to be a hit with our fundraisers.
Over a week, they raised thousands of pounds for us.
But they didn’t just get the feelgood factor from taking part, they forged a tight unit supporting each other and encouraging one and other when the going got tough.
Sarah Lincoln ran 7k each day of the week-long challenge, usually accompanied by friends and family. She was inspired to take part after her brother Bryan experienced our care.
She said: “Nothing we do can ever bring our loved ones back to us. All we can do is our best to help make sure that Severn Hospice is around to support other families.
Commitment
“I thank God for the hospice and their steadfast commitment to step in to superbly care, and support those who need them, surrounding them with dignity, compassion and love. It has been my privilege to show my support. I will miss this lovely group of people.”
Sisters Laura and Emily Floyd took part in memory of Emily’s husband David who was cared for by us two years ago. Each day during the challenge, Emily filmed and edited a video of herself and friends singing songs which meant something personal.
Meanwhile, Laura hula-hooped for 77 minutes each day dressed in a variety of outfits – from a leopard print catsuit and cheerleader’s outfit to a Mariachi costume and even a Hawaiian grass skirt.
Birthday
On the final day it was a dual effort – with the sisters both singing and hula-ing and they were even joined by their mum, Val who was celebrating her 70th birthday.
Neil Carney, Julie Kaur – a longstanding supporter of ours who regularly holds coffee mornings, raffles and bake sales and own our area fundraiser Hannah Gamston all notched up the miles, whether it was out on the bike, pounding the streets or climbing up and down the Wrekin.
Neil, whose mum, partner and running buddy all were cared for at our hospice, ran 5k and cycled 10k each day and was always first with an encouraging comment for the other participants.
Blast
He said: “I’m sad it’s come to an end; it’s been up and down but thoroughly enjoyable. It’s been a pleasure and a blast.”
Amongst others taking part was Hannah Shepherd who did seven, yes SEVEN, sprint distance triathlons. Despite cramping legs, dodgy weather and tiredness, she finished. She said: “I’m so proud of myself for setting my mind to this and finding the mental toughness to complete it!
Crazy
“Mum definitely would have thought I was crazy for doing this, and I know she would be so proud of me for raising so much money in memory of her, for Severn Hospice, who really did make a huge difference during her final days.”
Rowan, Isobel and Orla Evans all baked cakes while Sarah Houlston made a magnificent 7 cake and also set herself a number of seven-related challenges.
Amazing
Area fundraiser Hannah said: “Our fundraisers were absolutely amazing. They really went for it and raised a brilliant amount of money for us. We just can’t thank them or our event sponsor Nick Jones Wealth Planning enough. Their support means we can continue to care for people living with incurable illness.”
