Celebrate loved ones at Pilgrims’ Sunflower Memories Appeal 2024
The Sunflower Memories appeal returns to Pilgrims Hospices gardens in Canterbury, Thanet, and Ashford on Saturday, 20 July, 2024.
For over 10 years, the hospice gardens have welcomed members of the local community to come together and celebrate their most treasured memories of loved ones in the sunshine. The cherished appeal has been beloved by longstanding, and new supporters alike, raising over £400,000 since its inception.
Everyone is welcome to dedicate a sunflower in memory of a special person, in exchange for a donation to ensure that Pilgrims Hospices can continue to deliver outstanding end-of-life care to the local community. The sunflowers represent a heartfelt tribute to those who are no longer with us but whose memories continue to shine brightly. The dedicated sunflowers form a striking display and decorate the gardens, ready to welcome supporters into the hospice grounds for the Sunflower Days: garden tea parties with live music and light refreshments, offering time, space, and comfort to reflect on the lives of those remembered.
Once again, Sunflower Memories is delighted to welcome Pilgrims’ Wellbeing team to the Sunflower Days. As the hands and minds behind the Time to Create sessions, offered as part of the Wellbeing programme, they know how important expressing creativity can be for the body and mind. Attendees will have the chance to discover their inner artist at an arts and crafts station, available for all ages and abilities to enjoy.
Ellie Cane, Individual Giving Manager, said, “Sunflower Memories has continued to grow from strength to strength and provides the perfect opportunity for our supporters to remember their loved ones in the beauty of the hospice gardens, all while supporting local families who need end-of-life care, both inside and outside the hospice walls. It continues to be a special event in the Pilgrims calendar as families come together and share the day with those who may be going through similar experiences. We are very excited that our community has the opportunity to be united in their creativity as they gain first-hand experience of the kind of support we offer to patients and their loved ones through a Time to Create taster session.”
Pilgrims’ Supporter Relations team will write the names of those to be remembered onto vibrant sunflower markers, which will join the beautiful display in the hospice gardens. Supporters are welcome to collect their sunflowers to keep at home as a treasured keepsake from the day or allow them to remain in the gardens where they will shine brightly until 9 August. Afterward, the memory markers can be collected from the hospice reception.
The Sunflower Days will be taking place in the hospice gardens of Canterbury, Thanet, and Ashford on Saturday, 20 July, between 1 pm and 4 pm. Pilgrims staff and volunteers will be ready and waiting to welcome visitors, help them find their dedicated sunflower, and share in their treasured memories in the sunshine.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
15th May 2024
Spring was in the air for the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge on Bank Holiday Sunday!
More than 1,000 cyclists enjoyed a beautiful sunny Bank Holiday Sunday exploring the stunning Kent countryside at the 14th annual Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge. Riders of all abilities took part, collectively cycling more than 73,360 miles, the equivalent of cycling around the equator three times, to support the skilled and compassionate end-of-life care the charity provides across east Kent.
So far, this year’s event has raised £116,000; with indications that the total could reach as much as £120,000 for Pilgrims, once all donations and Gift Aid are finalised.
Individuals, families, friends, cycling clubs, local businesses, and services throughout Kent, took on the 30, 50, 75, 100, or 125-mile challenge. Bright skies and dry roads were the perfect conditions for Pilgrims’ flagship fundraising event. Ever since the event first took place in 2010, supporters have raised an astonishing £1.3 million to help people who need Pilgrims’ care within our community.
We congratulate all the riders for achieving their goals and for their incredible support for the end-of-life care Pilgrims provides.
Kate – Pilgrims
All routes started and finished at Pilgrims Event Village at the University of Kent, near Canterbury. Returning cyclists could enjoy a celebratory atmosphere, a sports massage, and well-earned refreshments after collecting their commemorative medal.
Kate Duddell, Pilgrims event organiser, said, “It was brilliant to see such a strong show of support for Pilgrims! We congratulate all the riders for achieving their goals and for their incredible support for the end-of-life care Pilgrims provides.
“It’s a privilege to organise the event, and seeing it year after year, I’m always reminded how much of a team effort it is. Our army of volunteers is just outstanding, and they gave up their bank holiday weekend to help make the whole experience safe and enjoyable for our riders. I can’t thank them enough! Nor the waves of cyclists who puff their way around the course in support each year.”
“I must also thank Barretts, Biketart, and Kent Sport for their wonderful support for the event, which enables us to maximise the amount of funds we can raise for hospice care.”
Care is provided from three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. To offer these services to patients and their families, the charity must raise £11 million each year from the generous local community.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
14th May 2024
Music and Media sale to rock Canterbury in support of Pilgrims Hospices
Get ready to groove and give back! Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce its upcoming Music and Media Sale on Saturday, May 18th, at St. Peter’s Church Hall, St. Peter’s Street in Canterbury. This one-of-a-kind extravaganza promises an unparalleled collection of 100,000 CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, books, and media-related merchandise, all available at rock-bottom prices starting as low as 50p.
Music enthusiasts and media lovers alike are invited to delve into a treasure trove of sonic delights. With an impressive line-up spanning from the iconic Rolling Stones and Beatles to the timeless tunes of George Michael and the beats of hip-hop masters, there’s something for every musical palate.
Expect massive deals on great artists, many on special three-for-two offers, and every opportunity to pick up an amazing bargain. The Pilgrims team will be on hand with their vast product knowledge to help shoppers and dealers alike find those special items that hit that musical spot.
But it’s not just about the tunes! St. Peter’s Church Hall, St. Peter’s Street, Canterbury, CT1 2BE, will transform into a haven for media enthusiasts, offering an array of T-shirts and memorabilia for fans to cherish. Whether you’re a vinyl collector, DVD aficionado, or searching for the perfect concert tee, the Massive Music and Media Sale has something for everyone.
What sets this event apart is its commitment to eco-friendly practices. Pilgrims Hospices recognises the importance of sustainability and encourages patrons to participate in environmentally conscious purchasing. By choosing to buy from this event, attendees not only add gems to their music collections but also contribute to the noble cause of supporting end-of-life care at Pilgrims Hospices.
Jonathan Gummer, E-commerce Manager at Pilgrims Hospices Retail, expressed his excitement about the event, saying, “We’re thrilled to host this electrifying event that combines the love for music and media with the spirit of giving. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy great music, find unique treasures, and support a cause that makes a real difference in people’s lives.”
Can’t make the date? Fear not!
Visit the Pilgrims Hospice eBay site, where you’ll find many interesting and collectible items that might just pique your interest.
For more information, please contact: Jonathan Gummer, E-commerce, Pilgrims Hospices Retail at [email protected] or telephone 07972 855 204.
Join us on Saturday, May 18th, for an unforgettable day of music, media, and philanthropy. Let’s rock Canterbury and make a difference in the lives of those in need!
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
13th May 2024
Remembering Tony: A lifetime of love, laughter, and sunflowers.
An adoring father and grandfather, my husband Tony was such a wonderful man. We met just a few days after my 18th birthday and had the typical meeting outside of the school gates. From daydreaming and scribbling ‘Tony 4 Me’ and ‘I heart Tony’ all over my school books, we would then go on to spend a very happy 50 years together. Although I best believe that our wedding had to be arranged around the fishing season with Tony being such a mad fisherman.
Tony’s illness was such an overwhelming and difficult time, but he fought it with such positivity, humour and determination. In the beginning, he did not want to entertain the idea of a hospice, but gradually he accepted the support that the hospice could give us both on his journey. Following an initial tour, his fears were allayed and he was comfortable attending either on his own or together. He took part in a couple of trials and it became the norm for us to discuss what would otherwise be a difficult topic. He fought to the very end though and because of the fantastic support, was able to stay at home until the last two days of his life. The nurses helped tremendously in making such a sad situation feel so normal and peaceful. The experience of his death was a beautiful one, where the love in his eyes shone through in his last minutes. It’s something I’ll never forget.
Roman – Laura’s grandson
Our obsession with sunflowers had always been a family joke. We both loved them, and Tony as a keen gardener, grew them in our garden and his allotment. We’d compete to see who could grow them the highest, and sometimes they were bigger than him! I have a total obsession with sunflowers, have ornaments, and even wore sunflower perfume. On any special occasion, we loved to give them out to our family and friends, as well as receive them. At his funeral, I laid a beautiful arrangement of sunflowers on his coffin.
When I found out about the Sunflower Days, I couldn’t think of anything more fitting. I attended with my grandson, Roman, who had lived with us since he was three and adored his Gramps, and the day brought so much happiness. A friend met us and took Roman to go and see his Gramps’ dedicated sunflower. It was a really emotional moment when he found Gramps’ special flower, we both cried, but they were happy tears. The gardens looked beautiful and it was a day of joy and happy memories.
However much I miss him, and always will, Tony’s passing was something I was so frightened of. But somehow, in the hospice, everything was so peaceful, and the staff were so kind and understanding. I will always be grateful. I hope to take part in Sunflower Memories, and attend the Sunflower Days for many years to come.
Join us this July to dedicate a sunflower in a loved one’s memory, and celebrate their life in the hospice gardens at our Sunflower Days.
This year, our Sunflower Days will take place on Saturday, July 20, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in our hospice gardens. We invite you to share your memories, collect your sunflower marker, and celebrate the life of your loved one, all while supporting the outstanding care Pilgrims delivers to local families, inside and outside the hospice walls.
More information on how to dedicate a sunflower can be found here.
Pilgrims Hospices is a registered charity providing specialist palliative care to individuals with life-limiting illnesses across East Kent. With a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, Pilgrims Hospices is committed to delivering compassionate care and support to patients and their families, ensuring dignity, comfort, and quality of life.
10th May 2024
Celebrating excellence in patient care with I Want Great Care recognition!
Pilgrims Hospices has achieved significant recognition for outstanding services through the I Want Great Care (IWGC) platform. Winning ten awards is no small feat! The integration of IWGC into our feedback collection processes has been instrumental in gathering valuable insights from patients across various care teams.
It’s impressive to see the dedication to continually improving our methods of collecting data and implementing new ideas based on patient feedback. This commitment to patient-centric care is commendable and likely contributes to the positive experiences reported by patients and healthcare professionals alike.
Being recognised by IWGC with Certificates of Excellence reflects the consistent outstanding feedback received by Pilgrims Hospices’ teams. It’s wonderful to see our efforts acknowledged on such a prestigious platform.
The use of IWGC for collecting and analysing patient feedback not only helps Pilgrims Hospices understand the needs of service users but also provides valuable recognition and support for staff. Real-time feedback enables staff to feel valued and appreciated, contributing to morale and a sense of pride even in challenging circumstances.
The transparency and empowerment fostered by IWGC reviews allow patients to share their experiences, ultimately enhancing healthcare provision by ensuring choices and controls are in place. Pilgrims Hospices’ commitment to utilising patient feedback highlights their dedication to providing exceptional care and continuously improving their services.
Karena Marks, Pilgrims Hospices Clinical Business Manager, said: “It has been a great pleasure to be part of the teams who are responsible for patient feedback. IWGC has been an integral part of Pilgrims collecting data, helping us to consistently monitor and improve our services for patients and their families. We have monitored feedback and have been responsive in all ways. We have, over a period of time, refined our processes for collecting our reviews and worked with IWGCto create our own bespoke feedback forms for some of our teams to ensure we are collecting meaningful feedback. Not only does this help reflect positive messages for our clinical team, but this extends to many of our services, including catering, domestic services, and far beyond.
“We are very pleased to receive the Certificates of Excellence, we’re all very proud of our services and proud to be recognised in the IWCG organisation.”
Overall, Pilgrims Hospices’ success with IWGC reflects our unwavering dedication to improving patient experiences and outcomes. Congratulations to the entire team on this well-deserved recognition!
Pilgrims Hospices has received significant recognition and positive feedback through the I Want Great Care (IWGC) platform, reflecting the outstanding care provided by their clinicians and staff. We now have over 6,400 reviews online, and from 1st April 2023, until 31st March 2024, a remarkable 98.4% of our reviewers had a positive experience with us, it’s evident that patients trust and value the services offered by Pilgrims Hospices.
Pilgrims Hospices is a registered charity providing specialist palliative care to individuals with life-limiting illnesses across East Kent. With a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, Pilgrims Hospices is committed to delivering compassionate care and support to patients and their families, ensuring dignity, comfort, and quality of life.
2nd May 2024
Pilgrims Hospices leads conversations on death and dying ahead of Dying Matters Week 2024
As Dying Matters Week approaches from May 6–12, 2024, Pilgrims Hospices gears up to lead conversations on #TheWayWeTalkAboutDyingMatters.
This annual event aims to empower people to engage in honest conversations about death and dying with healthcare professionals, family, and friends.
This year, Pilgrims Hospices is taking a proactive stance by bringing discussions to the forefront. Through the use of chalkboards, the charity will facilitate the ‘Before I Die’ conversations in key locations in Canterbury and Thanet. These conversations will focus on addressing fears and worries surrounding death and dying, as well as planning ahead for grief and loss.
“We believe that open conversations about death and dying are crucial for individuals and communities to navigate these challenging topics with dignity and understanding,” said Sophie Van Walwyk, Head of Psychosocial and Bereavement Services at Pilgrims Hospices. “By providing platforms for dialogue, we hope to normalise discussions about end-of-life care and provide support for those facing these difficult realities.”
The events are scheduled to take place at the following locations:
Broadstairs Library, The Broadway, Broadstairs CT10 2BS Wednesday 8 May – 10:00am – 2:00pm
Whitefriars Shopping Centre, Canterbury Saturday 11 May – 10:00am – 2:00pm
All members of the community are encouraged to participate by sharing their thoughts and feelings about what is important for them to achieve before they die, on the chalkboards. Additionally, Pilgrims Hospices will be on hand to offer guidance and signpost attendees to relevant services and resources, including Pilgrims Hospices Stepping Stones bereavement services.
By providing platforms for dialogue, we hope to normalise discussions about end-of-life care and provide support for those facing these difficult realities.
Sophie Van Walwyk, Head of Psychosocial and Bereavement Services
“We want to inspire a compassionate and supportive community where individuals can express themselves freely and honestly,” added Sophie. “By encouraging open dialogue, we hope to alleviate some of the fears and stigma surrounding death, dying, loss and grief, and promote greater knowledge and understanding within our communities.”
Furthermore, Pilgrims Hospices offers Grief Awareness Training packages from their training centre in Canterbury. To find out more, visit: pilgrimshospices.org/courses
For more information about Dying Matters Week events and Pilgrims Hospices initiatives, please email [email protected].
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity providing specialist end-of-life care and support to individuals and their families across east Kent. With a focus on compassionate care and dignity, Pilgrims Hospices strives to enhance the quality of life for those facing life-limiting illnesses.
