Nathan George goes the distance for Pilgrims Hospices
Nathan George (20) from High Halden took on a remarkable challenge, and successfully completed the South Coast 100K Ultra Challenge on Saturday 2nd September. Nathan was inspired to do something incredible for charity after some of his friends and family had been cared for by his local Pilgrims Hospice. He wanted to say thank you by giving back to the much-loved local charity. Through the support of his workplace, family and friends, Nathan raised a fantastic £2,747!
Nathan explained that Pilgrims is very close to his heart, he said: “I chose to support Pilgrims because of the outstanding work they do in my local community. I know people who have been in their care, and I recognise they are getting the best care possible. I know a few workers from the hospice, and they are some of the kindest, most thoughtful and greatly skilled people, and so personally everything aligned.”
Not only has Nathan successfully completed his Ultra Challenge, he has also achieved a huge personal milestone. Nathan explained: “For the past two years I have been on a fitness journey, I’m now more healthy, and have achieved a massive weight loss, going from 18.03 to 12.10 stones. I wanted to end this chapter of my life with an extreme challenge, and an ultra-marathon sounded like a great idea. I would be able to see what I’m truly capable of physically and mentally, whilst also raising money towards an important charity”.
Nathan wants to inspire others to set themselves their own challenge, he explained: “I never believed I was capable of achieving anything like that. Now after giving it a go for a year, I can say from experience, that with a little bit of a plan and a good mindset, you can achieve anything.”
He went on to share his fundraising tips and tricks, and said that he created a JustGiving page online, and posted some sponsorship forms on the walls of his workplace, the Garden Restaurant. He said: “People were intrigued, asked me how the training was going, and how they could get involved in sponsoring me. By sharing and talking about my challenge, the community grew and grew, and continued throughout the year.
I chose to support Pilgrims because of the outstanding work they do in my local community
Nathan
“Then, at 8:00am on Saturday 2nd September, I took my first step of the marathon, with the good luck wishes of everyone ringing in my ears. The challenge was without a doubt the hardest task I’d ever attempted, but knowing how many people I had backing me and the great cause, this carried me through the challenge.
“At 4:30pm on Sunday 3rd September, I limped over the finishing line. I had completed everything I’d set out to do nine months earlier. In the end, I raised £2,747 through the generosity of my family, friends and the lovely customers from my workplace.
“This journey has been my life over the past year, and I am overwhelmed by the community. We’ve raised a staggering amount of money and I am so proud of what WE have done. I would like to end on a special thanks to my Mum, Dad, Brother, Nan, Auntie, the customers and staff of the Garden Restaurant, and my best mates Olly and Josh. They all went above and beyond to aid me in this journey, and none of this would have been possible without them.”
Nathan hopes to inspire others to step up and do something amazing for Pilgrims Hospices, and believes that everyone can do anything they put their mind to.
Feeling inspired by Nathan’s story, and ready to go the distance for Pilgrims Hospices? You can sign up to your own Ultra Challenge, and choose from the Isle of Wight, Jurassic Coast or Thames Path challenge, as well as many more! Ultra-Challenge is famous for laying on the best support and hospitality, enabling you to confidently tackle your challenge with the best chance of success.
If you’d like to find out more about the Ultra Challenges or register to take part, please contact: [email protected] or sign up today: Events and Challenges
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent 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. 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.
10th October 2023
Funtastic Colour Run fundraiser for Pilgrims Hospices
Was a funtastic success for Pilgrims Hospices as the Thanet 5K Colour Run took centre stage at Palm Bay, Cliftonville, Margate on Sunday, October 1st, 2023. With over 400 Pilgrims Hospices supporters participating and raising an impressive £200k plus in the seven years the event has taken place for hospice end-of-life care in east Kent, it’s clear that the event made a significant impact.
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Hospices, Community Fundraising Manager, and the entire team deserve commendation for their hard work and dedication in organising such a successful event. It’s heart-warming to see the community coming together on a spectacular day in Cliftonville.
It was exciting to see families and friends coming together to enjoy a super fun day while also supporting a local charity. The fact that the weather was spectacular only added to the joy and vibrancy of the occasion.
A brilliant way to kick off the Colour Run event was with fitness expert Jennie who did a fun warm-up for all. The dynamic and energetic warm-up session was full of fun dance moves, and prepared everyone for the colourful and exciting spectacle ahead. With cool dance music playing, participants were encouraged to move, stretch, and get their hearts pumping, creating a lively atmosphere.
Karen said: “The money raised today will undoubtedly go a long way in providing crucial support and care for those in need in the community. The Thanet 5K Colour Run is not only a fantastic way to raise money but also a beautiful example of how communities can unite for a great cause. A huge ‘High Five’ to everyone who supported us on the day, and here’s to many more successful events in the future!”
Karen added: “I would like to take the opportunity to say a huge thank you to our sponsors – Thanet Earth, Stagecoach, Copyshop and Mini Stores in Deal. Also, thank you for the support of Margate Ambulance, Academy Radio, Isle of Thanet, Frank Leppard for his incredible photos, Charles our DJ, and Kerry on the drone, and lastly to the Pilgrims staff and volunteers who help me to make this event so special. I think I can truly say we’ve all had a real colour blast of a day today and we couldn’t run the event without everyone’s wonderful support, thank you all once again!”
A huge ‘High Five’ to everyone who supported us on the day, and here’s to many more successful events in the future!”
Other promos for future events.
Look out for our Christmas Tree Recycling event in the new year 5th – 8th January 2024 and please do follow us on our Pilgrims Hospice Thanet Fundraising for all our events, including the smaller evenings out!
Each year Pilgrims’ gives care to thousands of people across east Kent. 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 approximately £11 million each year from the generous local community.
20th September 2023
Get ready to splash into fun and make a difference at the Thanet 5k Colour Run 2023!
Dust off your running shoes and prepare to be drenched in a riot of colours at the Thanet 5k Colour Run, happening on October 1st, at Palm Bay Green, Cliftonville, Margate. This vibrant event promises an unforgettable day of fun, fitness, and fundraising, all in support of a great cause – Pilgrims Hospices.
It’s back and offering an exhilarating experience for participants of all ages. Whether you’re a serious athlete or just looking for a unique way to have fun, this event has something for everyone, a colourful 5k run or walk suitable for all fitness levels.
Participants can kick off the fun with a musical warm-up before embarking on a 5k route with colour stations, where they will be showered with safe and vibrant coloured powders. It’s a visual spectacle like no other, transforming ordinary runners into living works of art! Don’t worry; these colours are non-toxic, eco-friendly, and safe for all.
Bethesda Medical Centre, Palm Bay, Margate has entered their team of 19 colour fun runners including staff, family, along with three of their doctors taking part on the day too!
Caroll, Bethesda Practice Finance Manager told us: “This is the first time we as a Surgery have taken part in a Colour Run, one of the staff spotted the event promotion, and we’ve signed up to get involved. Although I’m unable to take part on this occasion, I know the team are really looking forward to it! Our Practice Manager, myself and 2 other staff members took part in the Pilgrims Folkestone Downs Challenge recently and raised over £200 in sponsorship. As a Surgery, we are always keen to support our local hospice when we can.”
Caroll added: “On a personal note, my father passed away in May this year, after a short illness, and I cannot thank Pilgrims Hospices enough for the care that he received, as well as the help and support that myself and my mum received. At my dad’s funeral we asked for donations to Pilgrims rather than flowers, and we raised just short of £500; mum received a lovely thank you letter for this from Pilgrims.”
The Thanet Colour Run isn’t just about fun; it’s also about making a meaningful impact on our community. All proceeds from this event will go towards supporting Pilgrims Hospices care, a charity dedicated to providing vital care and support to individuals and their families facing life-limiting illnesses. Your participation directly contributes to improving the lives of those in need.
Share your colourful journey using #thanetcolourrun
Karen – Pilgrims
Event organiser Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager said: “Our goal is to bring our community together for a day of fun while supporting a vital cause. We want participants to not only enjoy themselves, but also feel proud of contributing to Pilgrims Hospices care.”
So, mark your calendars for October 1st, 2023, and get ready to run, laugh, and make a difference at the Thanet 5k Colour Run! Follow us on social media at FBK @pilgrimshospices Insta @pilgrimshospices, for updates and share your colourful journey using #thanetcolourrun.
Your support means everything to the people we care for. Around 75% of our funding comes from the generous community. With your help we can continue to offer quality end-of-life care and our full range of wellbeing activities. Thank you.
Each year Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
6th September 2023
Hikers go the extra mile at the Folkestone Downs Challenge!
On Saturday 2nd September, over 400 brave hikers put their best foot forward to conquer the Folkestone Downs Challenge for Pilgrims Hospices.
The sun was shining as supporters tackled the challenging 36km course, taking them along some beautiful paths that showcased the spectacular scenery of Kent’s South coast. Starting from the Folkestone Harbour Arm, supporters climbed Kent’s famous white cliffs, and enjoyed breath-taking views over the English channel, Folkestone and Romney Marsh. Walkers even spotted some exotic animals as they passed by Port Lympne Safari Park, before making their way along the canal paths and promenade of Hythe to return to riotous applause at the Folkestone Harbour finish line.
We couldn’t be prouder of our brilliant supporters
Robert – Pilgrims
Almost 22,000 km were collectively hiked by Pilgrims supporters on the day; the equivalent of walking from London to Istanbul more than 4 times! The day was a huge success and early estimations are that more than £50,000 has been raised for local end-of-life care services, exceeding the charity’s anticipated fundraising target! The money raised will help Pilgrims Hospices to continue caring for thousands of patients each year, so that everyone living with a terminal illness can access the quality care, comfort and support they deserve, when and where they need it.
Max Sheppard, from Folkestone, completed the challenge and raised over £1,000 in memory of his father, Barry. He told us, “Dad passed away at Pilgrims Hospices in Ashford. Not only was the care for him at the hospice exceptional, the support for us as a family at the time was also incredible.
“Whilst Dad was only in the hospice for 6 days, Pilgrims Hospices provided a huge amount of support and guidance in the lead up to his admission. This assistance made a huge difference to Dad and us at a very difficult and stressful time.”
Not only was the care for him at the hospice exceptional, the support for us as a family at the time was also incredible
Max Sheppard
Robert Grew, Events and Digital Fundraising Manager said: “We couldn’t be prouder of our brilliant supporters who, quite literally, went the extra mile for Pilgrims on a very warm day. It was truly inspirational to see a community come together to support Pilgrims Hospices, and to celebrate and fundraise in memory of those they care so deeply about.
“We’ve already received fantastic feedback from our amazing participants, who have expressed their gratitude to our brilliant team. Our staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure that participants had plenty of support along the route and well-stocked refreshment stops, to keep spirits up throughout the day. We are so grateful to everyone involved who made the event such a huge success, and especially to our fantastic volunteers, we couldn’t do it without them!”
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This year alone, Pilgrims Hospices has to raise £11 million through voluntary donations and fundraising activities in order to run their full range of services. Sponsorship raised through events like this help the charity to continue caring for local people, and their families, as they near the end of their lives.
Each year Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
20th August 2023
5 reasons to take part in the Folkestone Downs Challenge
Pilgrims Hospices’ popular hiking event, the Folkestone Downs Challenge, takes place on Saturday 2 September 2023.
Here’s why you should get involved and put your best foot forward for local hospice care.
See Kent’s South coast like never before!
The Folkestone Downs Challenge has been designed to showcase the very best of Kent’s spectacular South coast. Starting from the Folkestone Harbour Arm, you’ll climb to the height of Kent’s famous white cliffs and enjoy breathtaking views over the English Channel, Folkestone, and Romney Marsh beyond as you follow the chalk ridgeline westward.
Along the way, you’ll pass Castle Hill, the site of an early Norman fortification, as well as the Folkestone White Horse, before reaching one of the highest points of the North Downs at Tolsford Hill (181m). From there, your trail descends through fields and woodland to the picturesque Lympne Castle, with a chance of glimpsing some exotic animals as you pass by Port Lympne Safari Park. Then, you’ll join the scenic pathways of the Royal Military Canal through Hythe and Sandgate on your return to Folkestone’s historic harbour.
The carefully curated 36km course is sure to hold more than a few surprises for locals and visitors alike!
Achieve your fitness and wellness goals
It’s nothing new that spending time in the great outdoors, walking and being active, does wonders for our physical health, but it doesn’t stop there. Research shows that being outside, particularly in nature, has many benefits for our mental wellbeing as well.
From a long hike, to a simple lunchtime stroll, walking has been proven effective in reducing anxiety, stress and fatigue, and there is evidence to show that walking in nature improves those results even further. That’s because different parts of our brain activate while in a natural environment. Our mind calms, leading to physiological changes, including reductions in heart rate and blood pressure.
The activity can lead to improved self-esteem, mood and sleep quality, and physically active people have up to a 30% reduced risk of depression. With all these benefits, it’s little wonder why so many are choosing to pull on their boots and join the Folkestone Downs Challenge this September.
Spend quality time with friends and family
We all know how tricky it can be to make time in our busy lives to enjoy quality time with those we care about. The Folkestone Downs Challenge is a perfect opportunity for that long overdue catch-up and to have a great day out among friends or family. It’s not a race, the challenge is to complete it, so there’s no need to rush. Enjoy the great views, chat and support each other in achieving something out of the ordinary! Intrepid solo hikers will find lots of friendly, fellow hikers to enjoy the day with too. And together, everyone can reach the finish line as a hospice hero.
Enjoy a fully-supported day out
From the moment you receive your very own Pilgrims technical T-shirt, to claiming your medal at the finish line, you’ll enjoy a fantastic level of event support that has become synonymous with Pilgrims Hospices charity hikes. This includes clear route signage, regular refreshment stops, toilet facilities, medical support, a free event information app and more. Not to mention our friendly team of volunteers who’ll be cheering you on throughout your challenge!
But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what some of our past hikers have said:
“Spectacular scenery, superb refreshments, fabulous company, wonderful volunteers, immense sense of achievement.”
“The food stops were incredible… the encouragement, friendly and smiling faces at the rest stops made the whole experience fantastic.”
“It was all amazing! Route, scenery, weather, signage, refreshments, volunteers, organisation, the whole thing!”
Make a difference for local people living with incurable illness
By taking on the Folkestone Downs Challenge, you’ll be directly supporting the care of thousands of local people who are living with an incurable illness. Whether at one of our three inpatient units in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet, our Therapy Centres, or in patient’s own homes, Pilgrims Hospices is dedicated to providing skilled and compassionate end-of-life care, completely free of charge, to empower patients, together with their family and friends, to live well in mind and body, and make the most of the time they have.
With around 80% of our funding coming through voluntary contributions from our local community (like sponsorship), by taking on the Folkestone Downs Challenge and going the extra mile, you’ll be making a huge difference to those who need us, now and in the future.
You can find out more about the Folkestone Downs Challenge, and sign up today, by clicking the button below.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
8th August 2023
We’re back to colour the coast!
Pilgrims Hospices, Thanet Colour Run, returns on Sunday 1st October to Palm Bay Green, Margate. This family-friendly 5k event is an explosion of colourful fun. Take in amazing coastal views as you run and walk through clouds of brightly coloured powder around the route. So far, some £200,000 has been raised through the event since it launched in 2016.
Gather friends and family to join the energetic atmosphere of people running, jogging and walking along Thanet’s spectacular seafront. We anticipate more than 1,000 participants including runners, joggers and walkers joining us on the day. All are welcome to support Pilgrims.
Entry – before 25th September 2023
Ages 12 and over – £24 – Ages 11 and under £15
On the day entry (if still available)
Ages 12 and over – £28 – Ages 11 and under – £15
What happens on the day?
9am – 11am: Registration will be open
11.30am – 1.30pm: Thanet 5k Colour Run takes place
Entry includes a white t-shirt, paint sachet, funky sunglasses and finisher’s medal. We encourage you to consider the environment and bring your own plain white t-shirt to wear on the day. We provide the white t-shirts for event safety and colour protection, but if you can recycle an old one, then that is appreciated.
This year, our participant wristbands are also environmentally friendly! Each wristband is bio-degradable and contains wild flower seeds within the band, meaning you can take it home and plant it in your garden!
Catering will be available for purchase on site.
Location – Thanet, Palm Bay Green, Palm Bay Avenue, Cliftonville, Margate, CT9 3NR.
If you would like to speak to Pilgrims’ about this event, please contact Karen Kenward Email: [email protected] or call her on 01843 233 934
By taking part in the Thanet 5k Colour Run, you’ll be helping Pilgrim Hospices to continue caring for people right across east Kent who are facing a life-limiting illness.
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.
Not only has Nathan successfully completed his Ultra Challenge, he has also achieved a huge personal milestone. Nathan explained: “For the past two years I have been on a fitness journey, I’m now more healthy, and have achieved a massive weight loss, going from 18.03 to 12.10 stones. I wanted to end this chapter of my life with an extreme challenge, and an ultra-marathon sounded like a great idea. I would be able to see what I’m truly capable of physically and mentally, whilst also raising money towards an important charity”.
