Stuart’s Cycle from Lands End to John O’Groats in memory of Isabel

Stuart's Cycle from Lands End to John O'Groats

Stuart's Cycle from Lands End to John O'Groats in memory of Isabel

In 2022, Rotherham Hospice cared for Isabel Simpson who unfortunately passed away following a 4-year battle with cancer. Whilst this was an undoubtably tough time for all her loved ones, it was Isabel’s positivity, courage and bravery that sparked an idea for her husband, Stuart.

He decided, with the help of Isabel, that he would embark on an extraordinary fundraising challenge to support the Hospice after seeing the amazing compassionate care she received from the team. Deciding that Stuart’s love of cycling would be the centre of this, he along with two friends Matt and Daniel Grey landed on one of the toughest challenges they could – cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

They endured a gruelling 17-day journey, lasting over 1,000 miles and filled with steep hills, mechanical issues and the lovely British summertime of torrential rain. Regardless of the tough challenges they faced, Stuart and the team remained determined to complete the challenge and raise much needed funds for Rotherham Hospice.

Whilst it was a daily struggle and test of both physical and mental endurance for the riders, the journey was also marked by warmth and kindness from strangers. From a couple who donated to their fundraising page after hearing their story, to a café owner offering shelter and hot drinks, the sense of community kept them going.

For Stuart, this ride was not just about personal endurance. It was about giving back to the Hospice that treated Isabel like family, providing her with a comfortable, supportive environment during her stay.

“When she went into the Hospice, she felt like she was at home,” Stuart recalls. “You made it really comfortable for us, it was amazing.”

It was this positive experience at such a tough time that drove him to take on the challenge, to ensure that others in his community can benefit from the vital hospice care they need in the future.

Stuart’s fundraising page is currently sat at just over £5,500 with a goal to reach £6,000. As a charity, Rotherham Hospice depends on the support of people just like Stuart, doing extraordinary things to raise vital funds to ensure that others can receive the same compassionate care as Isabel did.

Although cycling the length of the UK doesn’t look to be on the cards again anytime soon, Stuart is committed to continuing his support for the Hospice in the future…  and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

You can help Stuart reach his goal by donating to his fundraising page here:

Donate to Stuart's Fundraising Page Here

Your support will make a meaningful difference to patients and their families all throughout Rotherham who rely on hospice’s exceptional care.

Donate today and help Stuart reach his £6,000 goal for Rotherham Hospice.

Scoring Goals for Good: Kimmy Park Charity Cup’s Fundraising Story

Kimmy Park Charity Cup fundraising for Rotherham Hospice

Scoring Goals for Good: Kimmy Park Charity Cup's Rotherham Hospice Fundraising Story

In the heart of Rotherham, amidst the spirited chants of football fans, a remarkable initiative was born. What began as a casual conversation on a sunny morning en route to an away game soon evolved into a significant endeavour to support the Rotherham Hospice. This is the story of the Kimmy Park Charity Cup and the dedicated group behind it.

The Birth of the Kimmy Park Charity Cup​

The Kimmy Park Away Days group, formed by a collective of Rotherham United supporters, embarked on a mission to marry their love for football with a noble cause. With the Rotherham Hospice close to their hearts, they envisioned an annual charity football match to raise funds and awareness for this vital institution. From here, the Kimmy Park Charity Cup was established in 2022, marking the beginning of an inspiring journey.

Led by Reece and Jordan, the group meticulously planned every aspect of the event. From recruiting players and coaches to securing venues and organizing fundraising activities, their dedication knew no bounds. With each passing week, the momentum grew, and the anticipation for the first Charity Cup reached a crescendo.

On the 15th of July 2022, under the scorching summer sun, the first Charity Cup unfolded with an atmosphere of camaraderie and goodwill. Amidst cheers and laughter, players battled it out on the field while supporters rallied behind them.  As the final whistle blew, and the red team emerged victorious, the true triumph was the overwhelming support received from the community.

The success of the inaugural event propelled the Kimmy Park Charity Cup into its second year. With expanded team members and innovative fundraising ideas, they surpassed their previous fundraising efforts, raising a staggering £2,750 in 2023. This remarkable achievement underscored not only their commitment to the cause but also the unwavering support of the community.

Charity Match Against Barnsley Charity FC

Amidst their bustling schedule of fundraising events, the Kimmy Park Away Days group recently hosted a charity football match against Barnsley Charity FC, adding another memorable chapter to their philanthropic journey. Though the match ended in a narrow 2-1 defeat, the true victory lay in the collective effort to support the Rotherham Hospice. Reflecting on the day’s events, Jordan and Reece expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all who participated, whether as players, supporters, or contributors to the various fundraising activities.

Jordan also sponsored a player, Jayden from the Barnsley Charity FC team, a community charity group who have supported the Hospice in the past, alongside raising money for Rotherham Cheerleading Academy, Pipers Pathway, Toy Banks and Vulnerable Families, also holding an event on 6th April for the National Autistic Society.

 

Jordan and Jayden at the Kimmy Park Charity Cup vs. Barnsley Charity FC

When given the opportunity to sponsor Jayden, Jordan decided instead to put the Rotherham Hospice logo on Jayden’s shirt as a sign of support for the Hospice.

“I’m from Rotherham and a lot of my family and family friends been from here I couldn’t be any happier.” Jayden said of the shirt sponsorship.

“[Barnsley Charity FC] are more than just a charity football team we are a football team that’s supports our local charities… None of this would be possible without the support and ambition we all have and the love we all share for the game and especially without our manager Andrew Ward who organises our fixtures and events and most importantly makes sure we enjoy our time on and off the pitch.”

Continuity and Growth: The Future of the Kimmy Park Charity Cup

As they enter the third year of the Charity Cup, the Kimmy Park Away Days group shows no signs of slowing down. With a calendar brimming with fundraising events, including race nights, football matches, and raffles, they are determined to surpass expectations once again. Their dedication to supporting the Rotherham Hospice remains steadfast, driving them to new heights of philanthropy and community engagement.

On the 20th of July 2024, the stage will be set for the main event at Phoenix Sports Pavilion, Brinsworth. As they invite the community to join them in their endeavour, they extend their gratitude to all who have supported them thus far. Together, they aim to make a difference in the lives of those in need, one goal at a time.

Follow Kimmy Park Charity Cup to stay updated

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

Father and Son Team Up to Beat Their Walking Record for Rotherham Hospice

Father and Son Team Up to Beat Their Walking Record for Rotherham Hospice

At Rotherham Hospice, stories of love, remembrance, and determination intertwine, forming the fabric of the community’s support. One such tale involves Daniel Wotawa and his son Finley, who are gearing up for an extraordinary challenge in honour of a beloved family member.

Finley, 11-years-old, and his father Daniel are no strangers to the trails. Their shared passion for walking has seen them travel countless miles together, exploring nature’s wonders and forging unforgettable memories. But this time, their journey holds a deeper significance as they prepare to surpass their previous walking record of 30 miles in a single day.

Their motivation? A heartfelt tribute to Finley’s Great Grandad Judd, whose final days were marked by the compassionate care of Rotherham Hospice. Judd’s journey was made more comfortable and dignified, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Hospice’s remarkable team, leaving an indelible mark on Daniel, Finley, and their family.

In a testament to their gratitude, Daniel and Finley have set their sights on an ambitious route: a trek from Leeds city centre to Thrybergh in Rotherham. It’s a symbolic journey, mirroring the path taken by many seeking solace and support at Rotherham Hospice during their time of need.

For Finley, walking alongside his father has been a lifelong adventure. From his earliest steps, he has embraced the challenge of long-distance walks with a fierce determination. Now, armed with experience beyond his years, Finley is ready to take on this new challenge, driven by a desire to give back to the place that offered comfort to his family in their time of sorrow.

Daniel, proud of his son’s resilience and compassion, sees this endeavour as more than just a physical feat. It’s an opportunity to instil values of empathy and generosity in Finley, as they work together to make a difference in the lives of others.

As they lace up their boots and prepare to embark on their journey, Daniel and Finley invite friends, family, and the community to join them in their mission. Through sponsorship and donations, they hope to raise vital funds for Rotherham Hospice, ensuring that its invaluable services continue to touch the lives of countless families in the years to come. 

Donate to their page here!

Their message is clear: every step counts, every donation makes a difference. Together, they are walking not only in remembrance of Great Grandad Judd but also in solidarity with all those who have found comfort and support at Rotherham Hospice.

As they set out on their expedition, Daniel and Finley carry with them the spirit of love, resilience, and community that defines the ethos of Rotherham Hospice. With each stride, they move closer to their goal, united in their mission to honour the past, embrace the present, and build a brighter future for all.

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

Make your New Year’s Resolution a Challenge

What's your new year's resolution? Challenge yourself for Rotherham Hospice

Make your New Year's Resolution a Challenge in Giving Back!

As we step into a new year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and setting goals for the future. New Year’s resolutions often revolve around self-improvement, but what if you could make a positive impact on others while achieving personal milestones? This year, consider embracing a thrilling challenge for charity and support the incredible work of Rotherham Hospice.

1. Skydive for Rotherham Hospice

Imagine the rush of wind as you freefall from the sky, embracing the ultimate adrenaline rush in support of a great cause. Rotherham Hospice offers you the chance to take on a skydiving adventure that will not only push your limits but also contribute to the hospice’s vital services. For more information and to sign up, visit Rotherham Hospice Skydive.

2. Conquer the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

For those who prefer terra firma, the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge presents a formidable yet achievable trek through the stunning Yorkshire Dales. This challenge takes you to the summits of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough, covering a distance of 24 miles in under 12 hours. Lace up your boots and register for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge at Rotherham Hospice Three Peaks.

3. Take to the Skies with a Wing Walk

For the truly adventurous, a wing walk offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of flying while strapped to the wing of a biplane. Channel your inner daredevil and fundraise for Rotherham Hospice in a way like no other. Check out the details and register for the Wing Walk at Rotherham Hospice Wing Walk.

4. Run with #TeamRotherhamHospice

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a novice, there’s a perfect running event for you to support Rotherham Hospice. Exclusive slots are available on RunForCharity.com, including 5k, half marathon, and full marathon options. Join #TeamRotherhamHospice in events like the Sheffield Half Marathon and make every step count. Visit RunForCharity.com for more details.

5. Dive into Non-Running Adventures

If running isn’t your forte, fear not! Rotherham Hospice provides opportunities for non-running adventures on Run For Charity. From bungee jumps that will leave your heart pounding to inflatable obstacle courses that promise laughter and fun, there’s an event for everyone.

This year, make your New Year’s resolution more than just a personal goal. Challenge yourself, make a difference, and support the invaluable services of Rotherham Hospice. Whichever adventure you choose, know that you are not only pushing your own boundaries but also helping those in need.

To embark on your charity challenge journey, explore the available events and sign up today. Let’s make 2024 a year of unforgettable experiences and positive impact with #TeamRotherhamHospice!

2024 Events at Rotherham Hospice

Why your support matters

Your support will play a pivotal role in enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate and comprehensive services to our patients and their families. Whether it’s providing essential medical care, offering emotional support, or creating a comforting environment for our patients, your support will directly contribute to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

At Rotherham Hospice, we believe that every individual deserves to live their final days with dignity, surrounded by love and care. Here’s just some of the ways your support could help.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

Paws 4 A Cause

Wag this Way for Rotherham Hospice with Paws 4 a Cause

Join us for a paw-some day of fun at Manvers Lake on Sunday, March 24th, as we lace up our walking shoes (and paws!) to make a difference! 

🌈 What’s the Bark About?

Gather your canine companions, get those tails wagging, and let’s stride together for a meaningful cause. Get your FREE Paws 4 a Cause dog bandana with every dog registered!

🚶‍♂️ Where: Manvers Lake Manvers Lake sets the stage for our adventure, offering picturesque views and fresh air for a day of bonding with your furry friends and fellow dog enthusiasts.

🐾 Why Join the Pack?

  • Charity with Every Step: Your registration fees and donations go directly to Rotherham Hospice, supporting their crucial work in providing care and comfort to those in need.
  • Doggy Delights: Treat your four-legged friends to a day of excitement with special treats, activities, and games designed just for them!
  • Pooch Portraits: Get your pooches papped by our onsite photographer!

🎉 Event Highlights:

  • Scenic Walk: Embark on a guided walk around the lake, enjoying the serene surroundings with your furry companions.
  • Paw-some Activities: Engage in exciting dog-friendly games and activities, ensuring a day filled with joy and laughter.
  • Vendor Village: Explore a variety of stalls offering pet products, services, and goodies for both you and your furry friend.

Save the Date:
🗓️ Sunday, March 24th
⏰ 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Manvers Lake, Rotherham

Register your pooch here!

Matched Giving and how it works

Matched Giving and how it works

Matched Giving and how it works

At the heart of matched giving is the idea that every donation can go further. When individuals donate to Rotherham Hospice, their contributions are matched by their employer, effectively doubling the impact of their generosity. This means that even modest donations can make a substantial difference in the Hospice’s ability to provide essential palliative care services to those in need.

Matched giving programs also create a sense of community engagement, where employees and businesses come together to support a common cause.

Lyndsey Dunworth works for Natwest and has been involved in the Hospice in many ways.

“Rotherham Hospice is a charity very close to my heart and whenever there is an opportunity to help in anyway then I will always volunteer my time.  I know how hard everyone there works and I feel passionately about supporting my local community.”

Whether she volunteers her time or hosts a fundraiser at work, Lyndsey’s employers match her hard work:

“I am very lucky to be supported by my employer to volunteer during work time and even further supported by them in terms of any fundraising or volunteering I do – they will match my fundraising and they will also give money to my chosen charity for volunteering hours.  This makes it really easy for me and my colleagues to go that extra mile and give back.”

Lyndsey is also part of a team taking part in the Alton Towers Half-Marathon this year for Rotherham Hospice! 

Matched giving with the Natwest volunteers
Sponsor Lyndsey

How you can find out if your employer offers Matched Giving

Feeling inspired by Lyndsey’s story? Why not find out if your employer offers matched giving! If you’re not sure where to start, here’s some helpful tips on

Check Company Intranet or HR Resources

One of the first steps employees can take is to explore their company’s internal resources. Many businesses communicate information about their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including matched giving, on their intranet or through human resources materials.

Ask HR or Management

Directly reaching out to your company’s HR department or management team is a straightforward way to ask about matched giving programs. They can provide details about the program’s eligibility criteria, matching ratios, and the process for participating.

Review Employee Benefits Handbook

Some companies include information about matched giving in their employee benefits handbooks. This resource often outlines the specifics of the program and provides guidance on how to participate.

Collaborate with Colleagues

Sometimes, colleagues who have previously participated in matched giving programs can provide valuable insights and guidance. They may be aware of the process and can help navigate the application or donation matching steps.

Why your support matters

Rotherham Hospice is the only adult Hospice in Rotherham – providing vital palliative care for the people of Rotherham and its surrounding villages. Last year, the Hospice made 8,787 home visits and saw 383 patients on our InPatient Unit. Rotherham Hospice is an independent charity that relies largely on the generosity of the people and businesses of Rotherham.

£20, £50 or £100 raised could make a big difference to Rotherham Hospice

If you want to find out more how you or your company can help Rotherham Hospice, reach out to us at fundraising@rotherhamhospice.org.uk or call 01709 308 900!

Sandra nominated for Pride of Britain for Rotherham Hospice

Sandra nominated for Pride of Britain for Rotherham Hospice

Sandra is our Pride of Britain!

Everyone at Rotherham Hospice wants to congratulate Sandra Jones, Manager of our Herringthorpe Charity Shop, who was recently nominated for the Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards. 

Sandra was nominated in the Fundraiser of the Year category as recognition for everything she does for Rotherham Hospice and her local community around Herringthorpe. 

Sandra is passionate about helping her local community,  starting as a volunteer for Rotherham Hospice over 10 years ago. She later became Assistant Manager, then Manager of our Herringthorpe charity shop.

It's a little shop with a big heart that's what we always say. The customers, the volunteers, everyone – absolutely amazing.

Sandra Jones, Rotherham Hospice Shop Manager
Sandra, shop manager for Rotherham Hospice is nominated for Pride of Britain

As a charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on its shops to raise money needed to care for local people and their loved ones going through an end-of-life illness. It’s thanks to people like Sandra that our charity shops are more than just places to find pre-loved treasure at bargain prices.

Clinical Nurse Specialist Vicki explains, “It’s patients and families of patients that have passed away that go into these shops and that’s quite a sensitive time for them. Without realising it, they can be in floods of tears so Sandra and her team and all the other volunteers in shops, they have to be a listening ear sometimes and a comforting ear.”

Sandra puts her all into making everyone feel welcome in the shop. Thank you for all your effort!

Stephen King, Director of Fundraising for Rotherham Hospice

Sandra made it to the final four nominations for Pride of Britain for the Yorkshire & Humber region and was featured on ITV Calendar News. Well done Sandra from everyone at Rotherham Hospice and all the people whose lives you’ve touched!

Inspired by Sandra's story?

Volunteering is a brilliant way to learn new skills, meet new people and feel good in the knowledge you are giving back to your local community.

Rotherham Hospice has all kinds of different volunteering opportunities available, from shop assistant, to bereavement counsellor to volunteer gardener. 

Our volunteers get as much out of volunteering as they put in, and are an essential part of ensuring Rotherham Hospice can support our local families.

Learn more about Volunteering

Limbs Light Up Maltby for Rotherham Hospice

limbs light up maltby with Christmas House for Rotherham Hospice

Limbs Light Up Maltby for Rotherham Hospice

Every year, the Limb family Darren & Natalie do something amazing for Rotherham Hospice. They set up hundreds of Christmas lights around their house and garden and open up the display for the community to enjoy, and raise vital funds for a cause close to their hearts – Rotherham Hospice.

This year the event was bigger and better than ever. Lights displayed included neon Santas, reindeer, the Grinch, the iconic Coca-Cola truck and an old phone box fitted out with LED lights – all culminating in a dazzling display of festive cheer!

And it wasn’t just lights to keep everyone entertained this year… Maltby Brass Band played at the switch-on, kids could come along and meet donkeys and Santa’s reindeer paid a visit. Santa also popped in to say hello and even the Grinch!

Last year, Darren and Natalie raised over £4,000 for the Hospice. This year, the family raised an INCREDIBLE £6,649.50 from online and in person donations.

You can donate online here.

Limb family cheque

From everyone at Rotherham Hospice, we want to say a huge thank you to the Limb family, and to all the businesses who made this possible through their sponsorship. We can’t wait to see the Christmas House next year!

Christmas Lights sponsors

Why your support matters

Rotherham Hospice cares for families experiencing an end-of-life illness, both physically and emotionally. As a charity, Rotherham Hospice needs to raise £3 million each year to fund vital end-of-life services and we can only do it thanks to our amazing supporters like you.

School friends hot foot it for charity!

Fire Walk to raise money for Rotherham Hospice

In November 2022 two friends, who met some 30 years ago in comprehensive school, are set to walk over hot coals to raise money for Rotherham Hospice to say thank you.

Charlotte Dimond and Elenor Gordon, both 46, are taking on the Fire Walk to say thank you for the compassion and care that Rotherham Hospice staff gave to Charlotte’s mum Lesley in December 2021 when she was taken into the Hospice for end of life care.

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Charlotte said: “You don’t really know lucky we are to have such an amazing place on our doorstep until you need it. The staff were all so wonderful and kind with mum and with all the family and we’ve been raising money throughout the year to say thank you.

“My brother Bri has done a half marathon and then he joined one of my other school friends Christina Mower and they took part in a sky dive parachute jump. My sister and brother-in-law have both done a tough mudder event so it was my turn really.

“I always said I’d walk over hot coals for mum and now here I am about to do so to say thank you for the care she received. I’m so pleased to be doing this with my friend Elenor at my side. I think my normal shuffling speed will be dialled up a notch or two!”

 

Sponsor Charlotte and Elenor for being brave here.

Please put Fire Walk next to your name on the donation. 

 

As a charity, Rotherham Hospice relies on our amazing community of supporters like Charlotte and Elenor to raise the £3 million it takes each year to keep providing vital end-of-life care to our Rotherham families. 

 

If you have been inspired to have a go yourself, you can sign up for the Fire Walk here.

 

The event costs £25 per person to take part and we are encouraging firewalkers to raise a minimum of £250.

Participants will undergo an hour of training with experts from Firewalk UK. When the fire has burned to red-hot embers reaching 1,200 degrees, the surface will be raked level ready for fundraisers to walk over the coals.

Firewalkers must be aged 18 or over to take part. Spectators are welcome to come and cheer on fire walkers – the more the merrier – but please leave your furry friends at home. There will be food and family-friendly entertainment too.

John Breckin appointed Ambassador for Rotherham Hospice

John Breckin Ambassador for Rotherham Hospice

The Hospice means so much to me. They were there for me and my family, just as they are for all Rotherham families.

John Breckin on Rotherham Hospice Tweet

Rotherham Hospice is thrilled to announce John Breckin, Rotherham United FC legend, as Ambassador for the Hospice.

John has contributed to the creation of some of our most popular events including the Midnight Memory Walk, Red Glove Day at Rotherham United’s football ground and his annual cricket match at Wickersley Old Village Cricket Club. Not only that, but John is keen to do more.

John Breckin midnight walk

John’s support for Rotherham Hospice is longstanding, having lost his wife at the Hospice in 2006, and his daughter attended the Sunbeams support group the Hospice offers to bereaved families. Both before and after his wife’s death, John has been a constant supporter of the Hospice, giving so much of his time to helping the Hospice stay running.

 

As Ambassador, John plans to continue to be a beacon in the community for the charity, encouraging everyone to take part in fundraising events, contribute what they can financially and donate their well-needed services to the Hospice.

 

John is a frequent friendly face in the Hospice, saying hello to staff and patients whenever he comes in, signing books for people on the ward and throwing ideas around the fundraising office. 

It was only fitting, therefore, that when we asked John what he would like to do to celebrate the announcement of him as our Rotherham Hospice Ambassador, he asked for a small gathering with Hospice staff on Hospice grounds.

“Thank you all for sharing today with me. The Hospice means so much to me. They were there for me and my family, just as they are for all Rotherham families. It’s an honour and I’ll do whatever I can to keep this place going,” John said, in his speech in our gardens on 1st September. “You, the staff, are the Hospice. You keep it going. Every time I come down, there’s smiles on your faces and it really does make people feel at home and welcome.”

When asked why we decided to make John Breckin our Ambassador, Stephen King, Director of Income Generation for Rotherham Hospice said;

“It’s not enough to just say thank you for all his fundraising efforts. We wanted to recognise John’s achievement and dedication by appointing him as ambassador for Rotherham Hospice. We are looking forward to flying the flag for Rotherham Hospice with John for years to come.”

Thank you, John, for all that you do! The Hospice wouldn’t be where it would be today without your support and everyone here is excited to work with you more in the future.

Read all about John Breckin's amazing story in his biography. All proceeds go to Rotherham Hospice
John Breckin Ambassador for Rotherham Hospice