Mother and Daughter Walking in Celebration at KEMP Hospice Midnight Walk

Registration is now open for KEMP Hospice’s annual Midnight Walk through the Wyre Forest. Joann Baylis and her daughter, Kayleigh Hardiman, were amongst the first to sign up to this very special moonlit event, which will take place on Saturday 20th June 2015. Joann commented: “As soon as I mentioned the walk to my daughter she was so excited she started telling all her friends and colleagues about it! “Taking part in the walk is our way of saying thank you and ‘putting back’ into the Hospice after all the help and support our family has received over the years from KEMP Hospice. We feel it’s going to be a nice way to remember and celebrate the life of Jacqui and Sue who were supported by the Hospice.” Joann’s mother in law, Jacqui was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2008, her health deteriorated rapidly and she lost her ability to manage everyday tasks. Within a short time Jacqui was no longer able to walk and could only communicate through an electric communication aid. This was a very difficult time for Jacqui but also extremely painful for her husband and main carer, Roy and for all her family. Joann commented: “The hospice was able to help Jacqui in many ways. She looked forward to the change of scene and the company of others. It also gave Jacqui an opportunity to share her thoughts and anxieties which was so important but she didn’t want to burden the family. I think coming to KEMP made her feel she wasn’t on her journey alone. It also gave her husband, Roy a much needed rest and he knew it was a safe place for her to be.” More recently Joann’s family have been supported by the Hospice, once again. Sadly another close family member, Sue was diagnosed with cancer in June 2010. Sue also attended the Day Hospice and benefitted from the chance to talk and be understood. Joann said: “Talking to the Chaplain gave Sue great comfort and being able to write her will and talk about death gave her great peace of mind. Even though it has been a tough time, thanks to the Hospice we can look back and see so many positives.” KEMP Hospice fundraiser, Shelley commented: “The Midnight Walk this year promises to be a fun filled night to remember! We’d love you to join Joann and Kayleigh as it’s a great way to get together with friends, family or work colleagues. “Last year’s walk raised an incredible £30,000 which went directly towards supporting patients and families in the Wyre Forest. This year if you register before Friday 1st May registration is only £7.50 and this includes a t-shirt, an enchanting woodland walk, live entertainment on the night, a Zumba dance workout, a bottle of water - plus a glass of bucks fizz and a tasty snack to celebrate!” To sign up to this year’s Midnight Walk and to help transform lives in the Wyre Forest please ring 01562 756077 or email events@kemphospice.org.uk or visit the website, www.kemphospice.org.uk