Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice

03/11/2026

"To take part and raise as much money as I can to help other families seems like a no-brainer."

Meet Evie Lees-Fitzgibbon, a remarkable woman determined to honour her dad, Mark Fitzgibbon, by raising money for Sue Ryder. Despite the Starlight Hike's cancellation because of severe weather, Evie isn't giving up! She is now registered for the Starlight Hike Your Way and plans to complete a special 10k walk on Sunday, 15th November, in memory of her beloved father.

"I wanted to continue with what I had set out to do in my dad's memory," she shared, demonstrating her unwavering commitment. Evie describes her dad as "such a kind man, extremely funny, and everyone's favourite person to be around." With her aunt Jane by her side, and possibly more family members, she aims to walk a route along the Thames and Kennet in Reading, a place that held special memories for them. Reflecting on the hospice care her dad received, Evie said, "The love and care my dad received from all the staff at the hospice was truly incredible."

Although the cancellation was disappointing, she is looking forward to completing the walk in a way that feels personal to her and her family.

We're incredibly grateful to everyone who has rallied around us following the cancellation, and it's been heartening to see people like Evie embracing our Starlight Hike Your Way fundraiser. Thank you so much! ✨

23/10/2026

We are sorry to share that Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Thames Valley on Saturday 24 October 2026 has been cancelled. The Mapledurham venue is waterlogged, and with further heavy rain and strong winds forecast, everyone’s safety must come first.

We are really disappointed to cancel one of our biggest fundraising events for the region. We know how much this event means to everyone who planned to take part, volunteer or support us.

All registered participants will be contacted by email to receive a full refund.

22/10/2026

A huge thank you to the Bearwood Lakes Golf Club Ladies Section! 🎉

They have raised an incredible £831 for Sue Ryder this year alone! This fantastic amount was achieved through their recent competition, the Friends Remembered competition, the Masters Sweepstake, and a few other smaller fundraising efforts. Since 2011, they have raised over £25,000, a phenomenal sum to support the people we care for. Thank you for your hard work and generosity! 💙

21/10/2026

Congratulations to Lynn Love and Quito, the Pets As Therapy dog, who were nominated for the Animal Award at the Make a Difference Awards. 💙

We are delighted to share that Quito and Lynn were not only shortlisted, but 'Highly Commended' in the animal category. We are so proud of Quito and so grateful for the time he and Lynn spend on the inpatient unit. It's wonderful that the difference he makes to our patients, families and staff each week has been recognised.

20/10/2026

"The lights and walkers stretching out in front and behind feel warm and comforting, and it’s a lovely way to meet people. You never feel alone."

Meet the Carlucci family who want everyone to join them under the stars for Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Thames Valley! 🌟

This is their third Starlight Hike, and they share "The first time we signed up, we didn’t have a direct personal connection to Sue Ryder but wanted to support the charity because we knew the good it did in our local community - plus it looked great fun!

"Since then, special people in our lives have sadly died, and the hike has taken on a deeper meaning for us as a family. It’s a way to remember those who are important to us - near and far."

On Saturday, 24th October, participants will gather at the Mapledurham Estate for an evening filled with live music, a lively warm-up, and a beautifully lit route to follow. ✨ There will also be a special remembrance area for everyone to honor their loved ones. Walkers can sign up starting at 5pm, so everyone is welcome to join in!

To find out more, visit sueryder.org/get-involved/fundraise-for-us/events/starlight-hike-thames-valley/?utm_source=organic-social&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=slh-2026

15/10/2026

Are you a face painter who could donate your services to support our Starlight Hike?

We’d need you for a maximum of two hours on Saturday, 24th October in the evening.

If you can help, please email [email protected]

10/10/2026

Only two weeks to go! Last chance to book on to our magical Starlight Hike 🌟

Join us on Saturday, 24th October. Bring family, friends, and even your dog! You can walk to celebrate someone special, show your appreciation for our incredible Sue Ryder Nurses or simply take part because you believe everyone deserves expert care and grief support. With a beautiful route under the stars, it’s a night the whole family will remember ✨

Book your spot at: sueryder.org/get-involved/fundraise-for-us/events/starlight-hike-thames-valley/?utm_source=organic-social&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=slh-2026

05/10/2026

23/09/2026

Thinking about going to this year’s Starlight Hike Thames Valley? Hear from Sam Sykes, Senior Regional Fundraiser about why this event is so special. 💙

Sign up at https://www.sueryder.org/get-involved/fundraise-for-us/events/starlight-hike-thames-valley/?utm_source=organic-social&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=slh-2026

21/09/2026

Did you know you can bring your dog to Starlight Hike?

We love to see furry friends on the walk, whether you're walking in memory of a loved one or simply want to support a great cause, you and your pup can take on a beautiful route under the stars 🐶

Book your spot at: sueryder.org/get-involved/fundraise-for-us/events/starlight-hike-thames-valley/?utm_source=organic-social&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=slh-2026