Family and friends of a Bletsoe mum who died 10 years ago were among nearly 300 local people who lit up Everard Meadow for Sue Ryder last weekend (3 October).
Walking as Team Debbie’s Dumplings, the group raised £1,900 in memory of Debbie Hall. Debbie died aged 53 and received end-of-life care at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice during her final weeks.
Keeping memories alive
Debbie’s daughter, Amy Hall, described her mum as the “heart and soul” of any place, adding that she was always making friends and was kind, caring, thoughtful and selfless.
She said: “Everyone is just as important as the next, all thinking of Mum but doing it together.
“We’re a supportive group of family and friends, keeping memories alive. We wanted to raise funds to allow the hospice to continue to give that high level of support to patients and families, like a wider family.”
Debbie’s sister-in-law and close friend, Nicky Masih, added, “The Starlight Hike was so well organised, and all the team and volunteers were very encouraging.
“We also found the hanging of stars on the trees in the beautifully lit bandstand extremely emotional.”
Sparkling evening walk
The family joined 285 walkers completing a 5km or 10km route through the grounds, raising an expected £50,000 overall for expert palliative and bereavement support.
The evening kicked off with a glow stick fitness dance session, before brightly dressed Bedfordians set off at 7pm and collected medals at the finish line.
Senior regional fundraiser for Sue Ryder, Nick Burr, explained, “As always, this year’s Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Bedfordshire was filled with joy, laughter and memories, as well as the chance to honour and celebrate those close to us.
“It was absolutely wonderful.
“A big thank you to our amazing volunteers, sponsors Concept Event Solutions, and our hosts Bedford Borough Council for welcoming us back to Everard Meadow again this year and making this event possible.
“Every magical moment and step taken made a difference, helping to ensure no one has to face death or grief alone.”
