I was a patient aged 10 at Kingston Hospital, I worked as a midwife in the 1970s and 80s and after retiring from midwifery teaching, came back and volunteered in various areas including outpatients, dental administration and the chaplaincy services and worked in cardiology investigations in admin. My parents both spent time at the hospital in their last illnesses and I want to be able to give something back for the excellent care they received. Four of my nieces and nephews were born there too.

I have now started walking to prepare for the challenge and walked across Bushy Park in the heat last Tuesday and yesterday walked to Hinchley Wood and back 7 miles. Friday, a 50minute stretch and dance class to learn exercises for pre and post walks, and 5miles walk. Saturday, a 6 miles walk and Sunday, church and a stretching rest day.

Tuesday walked in Bushy Park with a friend, 7miles. Friday, a 50minute stretch and dance class, then walk to Esher from Thames Ditton, about 7miles in total. Monday, walked to Walton and back to Esher and got 2buses home, 11miles walking in total, nearly got to 13miles but couldn't walk a step further.

Today, Tuesday following week, walked 7miles from Kingston Market Place down Lower Teddington Road, Teddington High Street, Hampton Hill High Street, Hampton Thameside and Hampton Court station home. As I passed the island at Teddington Lock, I was reminded of being a community midwife at Kingston and Richmond in the 1970s.

This week I have been up to the North East to visit my 100 year old godmother, so have been walking along a promenade beside the north sea.

I'm pleased to be walking in the 2025 Night to Remember for Kingston Hospital Charity. This year, our goal is to raise funds for vital medical equipment that will enhance diagnosis, improve treatment, and deliver exceptional care at Kingston Hospital and the community it serves.

Medical equipment is extremely expensive and often requires Trusts to not only buy the equipment but purchase a licence to use it and have it maintained every 3-4 years, so an expensive process.

Last year, over 300 dedicated participants raised an incredible £60,000.

All together, we can make a profound difference. Every donation brings us closer to providing the best possible care for our community. Let's walk, knowing that our efforts will touch countless people and their relations..

Thank you all sooo much for your contributions, much appreciated

love Sue x