The ‘Maryport to Millom’ virtual challenge will see supporters of Hospice at Home West Cumbria each take on 46 miles across the month of May, representing the distance along the West Cumbrian coast that the charity’s palliative and end of life services cover.

Whether it be running, walking, swimming, or cycling, at home or out and about enjoying the Lakes and the Coast, the 46 miles can be completed in any way, provided that they are completed within the month of May. It is free to register to take part, and the charity asks participants to raise £50 in sponsorship to support their services. 

Holly Harkness, Community Fundraising Coordinator for Hospice at Home West Cumbria, said:

Our hardworking home nursing, support at home, family and bereavement support, and lymphoedema teams provide support to patients living in West Cumbria, covering the 46 miles between Maryport to Millom along our beautiful coastline, as well as into the Eskdale and Wasdale valleys. We have created our own hospice team and would love for you to join us to take on these 46 miles on behalf of the patients we support, completing them across the month of May however, whenever, and wherever you like – the beauty of this challenge is that people of all abilities can take part, so what are you waiting for?!

The charity hopes this challenge will help to raise awareness of who can access their services, and where and when they can access these. Cindy Hoten, a Complementary Therapist for Hospice at Home West Cumbria, said:

It’s important for our patients across West Cumbria to know we can reach them, in sun, wind, rain or shine, and exactly what support is available to them within their own homes, especially when mobility becomes an issue. 

To get involved you can sign up on the charity’s website at: https://hospiceathomewestcumbria.org.uk/events/maryport-to-millom.

The hospice team will be sharing updates as the challenge progresses, and readers are encouraged to follow Hospice at Home West Cumbria on social media to keep up with their journey and show their support.