In this vein, we recently spoke to regular fundraiser Sophie Thompson to find what drove her to ever-increasing efforts to raise money for St. Rocco’s.

“In previous years I have completed the starlight walk a few times and I really enjoyed being involved”, she explained. “But, with COVID, the Starlight walk hasn’t happened over the last few years, and I wanted to help and raise some funds.

“Last year I set myself a challenge of walking 150 miles in Feb, to raise money, and this year I thought I need to up the amount of miles so completed 250 miles. St Rocco’s is a charity close to my heart and the work the staff do is amazing, and the patients are looked after so well my grandad loved his time in there when he was there.”

Passed her fundraising target

“I didn’t find anything hard with the preparation. I went on more walks to prepare and went to the gym, but that was more in preparation.”

Sophie continued, “I enjoyed going on walks daily and finding new places to walk around which was scenic and had beautiful nature. I enjoyed putting my music on and shutting the world out when I was walking. Knowing I was raising funds made every mile worth the aches and pains.”

Sophie has so far raised an amazing £700 on her initial target of £400 and the amount is still going up. “I would like to thank everyone who has donated to me on my challenge”, she said. “My family and friends really supported me by coming on walks with me, checking in on me on my walks, and sharing my JustGiving page.”

Sophie concluded, “Thank you St Rocco’s for allowing me to raise funds for you and I hope the money raised will help. The staff are amazing, and the hospice is very clean and welcoming. During my challenge the fundraising team have been great, kept in contact with me and supported me all the way.”