We learnt to admire and respect the hospice movement the hard way. The walls of these amazing places are decorated with 'thank you' cards - which is nice; many others will express their thanks with a warm embrace - perhaps for that special nurse or doctor who cared for someone precious with respect and dignity, who prepared the family as best they could, or who simply made piles of toast and jam when there was no other comfort; That's also nice - very nice, a loving thank you gesture for a stranger who has shown the greatest love and kindness on the darkest day. But of course what hospices really need is money  - and lots of it - enough to ensure the amazing work they do and the comfort they provide to families, can continue for another friend, another family, another generation.

So, here's our 'way' to help. We're going to walk the Camino de Santiago - the Portuguese Way for the Irish Hospice Foundation in September. It's a bit of a trek (especially if you rarely walk further than between your kettle and your desk) - 129km over 7 days. We're doing it for David and Dad and Gill and Nin and for hospice families everywhere and to celebrate our friendship of 40 years. We'll share a happy memory every day - please support us and the Irish Hospice Foundation.

Karen & Francesca xx