On Sunday 11th October my sister Kate and I will be running the London Royal Parks Half Marathon to fundraise for the Hospice of St Francis in Berkhamsted. This is a charity close to our hearts, and we wanted to explain a little as to why we are fundraising.

In 2018 our dad was unexpectedly diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer which had spread extensively to his bones. Suddenly we were all facing questions no family should ever have to ask. All the future moments we imagined sharing with him became uncertain. In those early days, not knowing how long we would have left with our Dad, Kate phoned The Hospice wanting to understand what support existed for families like ours.

We will never forget the kindness and compassion of the lady on the other end of the phone. From that very first conversation right through to today, the hospice has been nothing short of incredible. They have supported dad through every stage - coming to terms with his diagnosis, offering medical care, counselling, exercise classes and support groups. Every part of their help has been invaluable and given Dad the motivation, strength and determination to make the most of the rest of his life.

Importantly, their support wasn’t just for Dad, it was for our whole family. We genuinely don’t know how we would have navigated the last eight years without this wonderful team.

Hospice care is about so much more than end of life support. It’s emotional, practical and physical care, for patients and their families, during the hardest moments and beyond. The Hospice of St Francis has been a lifeline for us, and for so many others in our community.

What is really shocking is that less than 20% of the hospice’s funding comes from the NHS. To continue providing the services that mean so much to families, they need to raise around £6 million every single year, relying heavily on donations from the local community.

We want to help ensure that other families receive the same compassion and support that we continue to receive. Every donation, however small, makes a real difference. And if you’re unable to donate, simply sharing our fundraising page and passing it to our friends means just as much. Thank you for taking the time to read our story, and for any support you’re able to give. It truly means the world to us.

Kate and Hannah xx