From hospice care to the Sahara

After his father received compassionate care from our hospice team, Antony Walker was determined to give something back. His way of saying thank you took him across the Sahara Desert.

When Antony’s father, Bob, suffered a stroke, his health quickly deteriorated and the family found support from our caring team both at home and later at the hospice.

Bob first received help from our Hospice at Home Team.

Compassionate care

“The carer who visited my dad helped him get ready for bed and added a human touch that meant the world at the time,” he recalls. “When your world is falling down, sometimes the little things stand out.”

After Bob moved to the hospice, the care and compassion continued.

“I cannot explain how much it meant to my family and me that our hero was given such peace and dignity, whilst surrounded by loved ones,” he says.

“My dad’s room was private, his care constant and respectful, and all of his pain, discomfort, fear and worry were eased. The staff were angels. Every single one.”

One moment stands out in Antony’s memory.

“I think it was around day three, there were five of us in his room. We held his hands, scooched-up near him, and swapped stories and laughed about what a character he was. There was nothing but undiluted love and shared memories.”

Inspired to give back 

Inspired by the support his family received, Antony went on to raise funds for us.

Having previously completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, he was determined to push himself further and took on a Sahara trek.

The trek was not without its challenges: heat, blisters, and even tents full of mice, but a sense of purpose kept him going.

“It didn’t really sink in until after we flew home. Seeing the total raised and speaking with fellow fundraisers made me feel proud. It’s reassuring to know so many people care and contribute.”

For Antony, fundraising is a way of recognising the difference hospice care made to his family.

“I could never pay back what the hospice did for my dad and my family. I’ll fundraise and support for as long as I am able for this beautiful, genuine charity,” he adds.

Antony is also joining our Firewalk in March this year and will trek across the Great Wall of China in October to continue raising funds for us.

“Supporting the hospice means they are able to be there for the next family, as they were for mine.”