23 August 2024

When Sarah Thomas was diagnosed with cancer, her family knew they were facing one of the most challenging times of their lives. After receiving the news that no further treatment was possible, Sarah found comfort at Severn Hospice, and ever since, her family has been raising funds as a thank you.

In 2022, Sarah passed away in our care, but her legacy lives on through her family’s continued fundraising efforts for us. Dave and Shirl, Sarah’s husband and sister, have taken on various challenges, driven by their gratitude for the hospice and their desire to support other families facing similar heartbreak.

The family has participated in many events such as 10k runs, and this September Shirl will be joining the Severn Hospice Walk in our shoes step challenge for the second year in a row. Their motivation is clear: to give back to Severn Hospice for the exceptional care provided during Sarah’s final days.

“When Sarah and I came here, it was so welcoming, and everyone made us feel like part of the hospice family. It felt like a home away from home,” Dave recalls. Initially hesitant about the hospice, Sarah found comfort after visiting Severn Hospice for an art therapy session. “Every person she met here, from the volunteer driver to the art therapist, was just brilliant, and it really helped her feel more at ease,” Dave adds.

The care extended beyond Sarah to her entire family. “We were amazed that even our beloved dog, Cody, was able to visit Sarah.”

Since Sarah’s passing, Shirl, Dave, and Sarah’s brother, Rob, have dedicated themselves to raising funds for Severn Hospice, participating in multiple challenges with no plans of stopping. Shirl’s Walk in our shoes step challenge will see her aim for 350,000 steps in the month—10,000 for each of Severn Hospice’s 35 years of service.

Having participated last year, Shirl is no stranger to this challenge. “It’s a great challenge because it’s achievable and motivates you to get moving. I already walk a lot with my dog Milo, and this challenge just makes me add a few more steps each day,” Shirl says. “It’s a wonderful way to give back to Severn Hospice.”

For Shirl, every step she takes is a tribute to Sarah. “I do it in memory of Sarah, and I know she’d be proud of us—just as we are proud of her,” Shirl says. “Sarah was so brave, and the hospice did everything possible to ensure she was comfortable,” Shirl and Dave add.

Their determination to keep Sarah’s memory alive is not just about honouring Sarah, but also about encouraging others to support Severn Hospice. Shirl’s commitment has even inspired her daughter to join this year’s challenge.

“I encourage everyone to participate. It’s really not very difficult, especially if you have a dog. And you can always make up for missed steps the next day,” Shirl advises. “Even if you feel too tired to go for a walk on some days, just get up and do it. You’ll feel amazing afterward!”

This September, we invite everyone to join Shirl, and our other super-supporters in our Walk in our shoes step challenge. Whether you’re walking in memory of a loved one or simply to support a great cause, your support will make a difference to local people living with incurable illness.

Read more here.