Our Hospiscare Heroes pour their time, energy, and creativity into supporting our local hospice charity. Their efforts make a real difference to patients and their loved ones across Exeter, central, and east Devon.
Here’s a glimpse at some of the incredible ways they’ve been using their extraordinary talents to raise funds and spread kindness.
Our first huge thank you goes to Brian, who has gone above and beyond in his support for Hospiscare for an astounding 43 years. In fact, Brian has been with us since day one, and over the decades he has become a much-loved and familiar face at countless community events and fundraisers, always ready to lend a hand – and even don the red suit as Father Christmas. His generosity and community spirit have made a lasting impression on everyone who knows him.
Since 2007, Brian has been brightening up our hospice in Exeter with beautiful flowers kindly donated by Sainsbury’s on Alphington Road. When he noticed that unsold bouquets were being thrown away, he asked whether they could instead be shared with local charities – and so began his weekly floral collections.
At the suggestion of his late wife, Jane, Brian decided to alternate his donations between Hospiscare and FORCE Cancer Charity, ensuring both organisations benefited from this thoughtful act of kindness. His simple yet powerful idea has not only reduced waste but also brought colour, fragrance, and joy to patients, families, and staff alike.
Over the years, Brian’s efforts have also helped to raise more than £10,000 for Hospiscare – a truly remarkable achievement.
From all of us at Hospiscare, thank you, Brian, for your commitment, creativity, and kindness. Your contribution continues to make a real and lasting difference.
A huge thank you to Alice-Joy and Chris for taking on the epic John O’Groats to Land’s End Cycle Challenge in support of Hospiscare.
To celebrate turning 30, the pair decided to cycle 1,100 miles from the very tip of Scotland to the southernmost point of England – all while raising vital funds for their local hospice.
After a year of preparation and countless winter spin sessions, they truly earned every mile of their journey through the Scottish Highlands, Lake District, Peak District, Dartmoor, and Bodmin Moor. As if that weren’t impressive enough, Chris also ran the Bristol Half Marathon just two weeks before the ride.
Alice-Joy shared:
“The trip was such an adventure and a real challenge for us, and we’re so proud that we completed it! We experienced all the different weather the UK had to offer – from 50mph winds to glorious sunshine to pouring rain and everything in between! We visited so many beautiful places and loved catching up with friends and family along the way. We faced a few challenges with sore knees and bike troubles, but all the support and fundraising for such a great cause kept us going.”
So far, they’ve raised an amazing £2,310, and thanks to Alice-Joy’s company, all donations will be matched pound for pound. If you’d like to support their efforts, you can donate here.
On behalf of everyone at Hospiscare, thank you both for going the distance! Your determination, energy, and positivity have been an inspiration to us all.
Our next Hospiscare Hero, James, also knows all too well the challenge of conquering the John O’Groats to Land’s End route. Back in June, we shared James’s inspiring story – you can read it here.
Recently, James stopped by the hospice for a tour and a photo opportunity, giving us the chance to thank him in person.
James, your incredible physical effort and fundraising dedication help us continue to provide care and comfort to our patients and their loved ones – and for that, we’re truly grateful.
The Withycombe Rainbows group in Exmouth, who meet at Little Mead Church, have shown just how much heart and determination they have.
The girls had been looking forward to taking part in Hospiscare’s Reindeer Run last Christmas, but severe weather and Storm Darragh meant they were unable to join in.
Rather than be disheartened, the Rainbows turned their setback into something special – by organising their very own Easter Bunny Hop instead.
Thanks to their boundless energy and enthusiasm, the group raised an amazing £65 for Hospiscare. To celebrate, they enjoyed a fun-filled trip to the Dinosaur Park in Exmouth.
From everyone at Hospiscare, thank you, Withycombe Rainbows, for your creativity, kindness, and community spirit.
