When we heard about the opportunity to trek the Grand Canyon for Thames Hospice it was the easiest yes.

Ollie works as a palliative doctor on the inpatient unit, so sees first-hand the difference the charity makes to the patient and family experience at the end of one's life.

He also sees first-hand the cost of running this wonderful service. It costs approximately £600 a night per patient bed. This is not sustainable without significant fundraising work and donations from generous people.

Importantly, this trek is hugely sentimental to us. Dan lost his father Jon to lung cancer in August 2022, and was care for in his final weeks at Thames Hospice in August 2022.

Illness comes unexpectedly; terminal illness even more so. When that seemingly impossible time comes, the hospice becomes a source of stability: supporting patients through complex end-of-life symptoms in the community and in the unit, as well as providing extensive pastoral and psychological support to their families.

Collectively, we are aiming to raise £8000 for the hospice by trekking the Grand Canyon with Dan from 14th to 21st September 2023 in memory of Jon. Your donations will drive this forwards and make this possible.

There are lots of ways to donate. For example, come and support one of our events. We've got a Spring football match on April 29th 2023 at Eton Wick football club, a Summer BBQ / Rounders day and a Grand National / Wimbledon Sweepstake. Just follow the Hairy_Hospice_Hikers on Instagram or Facebook to keep in the loop.

Of course, we are both happy to tell you more about the fundraising or the expedition at any point.

Thank you, as always, for your support

Dan & Ollie