Last year my I lost my father to a glioblastoma, (a grade 4, fast growing, non curable brain tumour). It was eleven weeks from diagnosis to death as he deteriorated so quickly he was unable to have any treatments. After suffering a seizure whilst at home, he was moved to Katharine House Hospice where he remained for the last five weeks of his life. 

The hospice was nothing short of incredible. They provided round the clock care, in beautiful surroundings to my dad, but also showed compassion and care towards myself and family members.  I spent my afternoons and evenings with my dad for those five weeks, where I witnessed nurses going above and beyond to support the wishes of a dying man. 

In the last few weeks of his life he was obsessed with ice cream and the hospice staff ensured he was never without, providing a variety of flavours and allowing him to eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It was these small things and the many times they went above and beyond that meant the last few weeks of my dad's life were comfortable for him, and allowed me the time and privacy with him as well as peace of mind when I was not there knowing he was cared for 24/7. 

10 miles may not seem like a lot, but it's the start of my fundraising journey and hopefully be the first of many activities I undertake for this amazing hospice and the incredible people that work there. For this first chapter I am supported by an amazing friend Keta, who will be accompanying me, and hopefully be bringing snacks.

If I can reach the target I promise I will dress up- and throw in a glowstick or two! (The theme is night at the movies)

Katharine House provides specialist palliative care for adults with life-limiting conditions across North Oxfordshire and South Northamptonshire. We provide inpatient services, specialist nurses out in the community, a Living Well programme, a specialist hospital team and bereavement support.Our Moonlight Walk is one of our flagship fundraising events with close to 500 people taking part to raise money for our patients and their families.