Fundraising stories
Snapping into action!
Usually behind the camera as North London Hospice’s photographer, Ian swapped his tripod for trainers to take on the London Marathon – raising over £2,000 in the process.
Motivated by the insight he gains through capturing hospice events and moments, Ian said: "I know what a fantastic service they provide, so I was delighted to support in this way."
Running the marathon also marked a personal milestone: "It’s my 50th year, and I want to stay fit for my six-year-old son. There’s nothing like the marathon as a goal – the support is incredible and the finish line euphoria is immense."
Completing the 26.2 miles in just over four hours, Ian now has his sights set on more races – but not before thanking his biggest supporters at home.
“My family and friends were just amazing, encouraging me and supporting me from the moment I began fundraising and it is only because of them that I could raise what I did for the hospice. I do get to see first-hand what an amazing job everyone does, and I am not sure there is a more important cause to support.” Ian
Taking It All In His Stride
At 91, retired taxi driver Leslie was the oldest participant in Big Fun Walk – completing the 8.5-mile route in five hours, alongside his daughter Lynn, grandson Matthew, and Matthew’s partner Louise.
They walked in memory of Mary, Leslie’s wife of 68 years, who was cared for by North London Hospice before she passed away last August.
"She was my happiness," Leslie said. "The hospice team were excellent – I can’t thank them enough."
A lifelong supporter of charity, Leslie signed up both to honour Mary and to prove he could still take on a challenge. "You’re never too old to try," he said. "I thought of Mary and how pleased she’d have been."
Raising over £2,400, Leslie was deeply moved by the support – and proud to show his gratitude for the care his family received.
“She wanted to die at home with her family around her and albeit hard, it was a comfort to make that happen. The hospice team were excellent and so supportive. I know it’s a tough job and I don’t have enough words to thank them.” Leslie
Brighton cycle rekindles a childhood hobby
Following a risky but successful operation to regain lost mobility, our front of house volunteer, Angie, took up cycling – something she had not done since she was a little girl.
Deciding to challenge herself with the London to Brighton Bike Ride, the amazing Angie went on to raise more than £1,100 for the hospice.
“Each week at the hospice I get to spend time with people, listening to them, being a friendly face. Then when I was ill it forced me to confront my own mortality, which further cemented my belief in the importance of compassionate end-of-life care. I have seen grief in close quarters...Fundraising for North London Hospice was just another way to lend my support to this vital work.”
Thank you so much Angie for all that you do for us.
I was wearing my hospice t-shirt, and someone interviewed me asking why I was supporting this cause, which helped me to find my confidence. I feel so strongly that North London Hospice is a fantastic place with care that’s second to none and it was an honour to do something to help Angie
