On the 26th September, I am walking in the Sunrise Walk (alongside my grandmother) for St Michael’s Hospice. St Michael’s Hospice, cared for a person who meant a great deal to me.  

During December 2020, my French Teacher (but also my tutor), was taken into their care. To me, she was not only my French teacher, she was my French Mum. She received the five-star treatment that she deserved during her stay at the Hospice. Ms Soisnard {Emmanuelle Soisnard}, was the most remarkable person I ever knew, her teachings inspired me to take French as a GCSE but most importantly as an A-Level. Even though she was my tutor for three years, her outlook on life and her positivity influenced us all. Her welcoming manner, made her like a second Mother to all of her tutees. She taught at The Vyne Community School for over twenty years, passionately inspiring people to learn another language! (It didn’t have to be French, even though that was her native language!). Sadly, she passed away in March 2021, having battled stage four lung cancer for almost three years.  

During lockdown, Ms Soisnard walked most days. I remember her telling me, that's how she filled her spare time. So, I thought walking, in amongst the countryside, would be a fulfilling and challenging to both me and my grandmother. Whilst taking in the impressive views! 

I roped in my grandmother {Janet} to walk with me. She understands how important Ms Soisnard was to me, and how her teachings impacted many. 

I was shocked at how much it costs, for St Michael’s Hospice to operate, £20 for one hour with a nurse! It made me eager to support them, any way I could. So, I signed up to the challenge, walking five miles around Worting and Wootton St Lawrence.  

St Michael’s Hospice cares for a staggering amount of people each year, and honestly, they need all the financial support they can get. Raising money for the hospice, was what Ms Soisnard wanted, so I am aspiring to her wish.   

Sadly, Ms Soisnard wasn't the last person that received care from the team at the Hospice, and unfortunately, she never will be. The excellent team care for many lives each year, and give support to the loved ones of those who were stricken by illness. So, by doing this walk, I am hoping to raise money for the Hospice, so they can continue to give their five-star care, to anyone that needs it. And the sad thing is, in the future you may know someone, who needs to be cared by them.  

So, I would like to say thank you for taking the time to read this, even if you cannot give, please just share a message of support to me and my grandmother or a message of gratitude and thanks to the Hospice.  

Personally, I would like to give a huge thanks to the Hospice, for caring for my beloved mother/teacher and the others who sadly, need their care.  

Amber.