For Dad and Lee - moving forward, one foot in front of the other!

In 2015, I lost my dad Paul to cancer. This past April, my stepdad Lee passed away from pancreatic cancer. Both were cared for by extraordinary hospice staff - my dad at home, surrounded by family, and Lee in an incredible, supportive hospice facility. The kindness, dignity, and compassion shown to them, and to us as a family, was unforgettable. Hospice care goes beyond just medical treatment. They support patients and families with end-of-life care, short and long term stays, rehabilitation, grief support, and so much more - all provided free of charge.

To honour my dad and Lee, I’m running the Dunedin Half Marathon on 14th September! As well as giving back, this is the biggest physical and mental challenge I’ve taken on. Exercise has played a huge role in helping me manage my mental health, especially through grief. It reminds me to keep moving forward, even when things feel heavy.

My dad loved the outdoors and always encouraged us to work hard and lift others up in our successes. Lee reminded us that if we wanted something, we should give it a go. So I’m doing just that - running 21km with both of them in my heart, in support of the hospice staff who made such a difference in our lives.

If you’re able to donate, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Every bit helps Hospice New Zealand continue their incredible work, supporting families through some of life’s hardest moments with care, dignity, and compassion.