Throughout the year, our Hospiscare Heroes harness creativity, compassion and determination to raise vital funds for our adult hospice charity. Their efforts ensure we can continue providing essential care and support to patients and families across Exeter, central, and East Devon during the most challenging moments.
Let’s take a closer look at the incredible stories behind these superheroes and celebrate what they have achieved to help making a difference.
Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Unwavering Generosity
As the New Year begins, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the immense support we’ve received over the past 12 months. Behind every fundraising event, donation, and act of kindness is an individual or group of people who have freely given time, energy, and resources to help us continue providing end-of-life care in the community.
To each and every one of you, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your efforts make a real difference to the lives of those we care for.
In this week’s edition, we’re looking back at some fantastic fundraising highlights from 2024, from the summer months right through to the festive season.
From Spooky Spiders to Festive Delights
Hospiscare superhero Nick, Branch Manager at the Cornwall Glass Exeter showroom, and a proud member of our 40 Club, has supported Hospiscare for many years. Known for his enthusiasm and creativity, Nick has never shied away from a challenge – including stepping in to take a skydive when a colleague couldn’t!
This Halloween, Nick and his team filled their showroom with 629 spooky spiders and invited customers to guess the total. This fun and engaging event brought smiles to many faces and much-needed funds to our charity.
But Nick didn’t stop there. For the festive season, he and his team also organised a Christmas Hamper Draw. Thanks to their seasonal efforts, they raised £408.50. Thank you, Nick and the team at Cornwall Glass, for your continued dedication and creativity in supporting Hospiscare.
Dancing for a Cause: A Halloween Extravaganza
Another shining example of community spirit comes from the dancers at East Devon Dance Academy, who hosted not one, but three thrilling Halloween parties in support of Hospiscare. These events, filled with spooky fun, high-energy performances, and plenty of laughter, raised £360.
A special thank you goes to Lucie Welsman-Manvell, who made these events possible. Lucie, you truly danced your way into our hearts – thank you for everything you do.
Preloved with Purpose
Creativity meets sustainability in the inspiring efforts of Hospiscare superhero Nicola Rose. On Monday, 25 November, Nicola hosted a clothes swap event, raising funds for Hospiscare while promoting renewable fashion at the same time.
This popular event attracted attendees of all ages and backgrounds, from curious first-timers to seasoned swappers, and raised £230. The event was a tribute to Nicola’s beloved father, Paul, and showcased how personal motivation can fuel meaningful change. Thank you, Nicola, for turning your passion into a powerful fundraiser.
Striking Support: Awliscombe Skittles League
Hospiscare Heroes come in all forms, and this summer, the Awliscombe Summer Skittles League hit a fundraising strike. With skill, precision, and a love for the game, the league donated £500 to support our work.
We are so grateful to every player and organiser who helped make this possible.
Specialist Chairs for Compassionate Care
Sometimes, generosity comes from deeply personal places. For Hospiscare Hero Leslie, his motivation to give back stems from love and remembrance. In honour of his beloved wife, Jackie, who was cared for on our ward, Leslie funded specialist chairs designed to enhance comfort, safety, and support for our patients.
Leslie’s thoughtful contribution ensures that our ward patients can feel as comfortable as possible during their time with us. We are truly humbled by his kindness and dedication to improving our services. Thank you, Leslie, for helping us provide even better care.
Crafting Kindness: Lympstone Quilt Group
Over the past year, we have been grateful to witness so many wonderful Coffee Mornings, each one brimming with warmth and generosity. These gatherings have offered more than just a comforting cuppa; they’ve been a hub for heartfelt conversations, shared laughter, and cherished connections.
Amidst the joy and camaraderie, our next Hospiscare Superheroes, Sally Harradine and the talented ladies from Lympstone Quilt Group, brought something unexpected to the table for their Coffee Morning hosted on 1 November in Lympstone Village. An array of beautiful handmade quilts and bespoke gifts, with homemade cakes on top of that, made this event simply irresistible, and their carefully crafted Coffee Morning was a huge success, raising £1818.
Sunflowers in Full Bloom
Each summer, Dart’s Farm transforms into a haven of sunshine with their iconic sunflower-picking event. This year, families from across the region gathered to pick their own golden blooms while supporting Hospiscare.
This popular event raised an astonishing £10,250, thanks to the generosity of Dart’s Farm and everyone who participated. The funds will go a long way in helping us provide essential care. Thank you to Dart’s Farm for your continued partnership and to all who contributed to this phenomenal success.
Another Year of Gratitude
As we wrap up this edition of Hospiscare Heroes, we want to emphasise just how much your support is to us. On behalf of our staff, volunteers, patients, and their families, thank you. Your stories remind us of the power of community and the extraordinary things we can achieve together.
We love hearing about your fundraising adventures, so please continue sharing activities and photos with us on social media. If you’d like to become a Hospiscare Hero, visit our fundraising page to find out more.
Here’s to another year of incredible support, compassion, and community spirit in 2025. Thank you for making 2024 a year to remember.
