Highland Hospice invites people to Step Out on year-long challenge that could help change lives
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A year-long fundraising Step Out challenge is being launched by Highland Hospice.
With indoor events impossible, the charity is focusing on people’s ability to get out and run, walk or jog to help it continue providing its care and services.
A pair of bright yellow shoelaces and a T-shirt will be given to every participant who signs up for a sponsored event.
The four main challenges people can sign up for are the Inverness Half Marathon and 5k on May 16, Route to Remember on June 26, Great Wilderness Challenge on August 14 and Baxters Festival of Running on October 3.
Fundraiser Katie Gibb said with the current restrictions, 2021 could be the year people make a difference by setting themselves a fitness goal and helping the hospice.
"Whether you would like to walk in memory of someone special, trek through the wilderness, or run a pre-school race, 5k, 10k, half or full marathon, there should be something that is achievable for most people," she said.
Those not keen on an organised event could create their own challenge with a date, distance and location.
"Your eyes could be opened not only to your own ability, but your training and event participation could lead you to beautiful places you have never seen before," she said.
Hospice supporter and service user Barry MacDowell (46) is backing the campaign.
He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2015 and was the first patient to access the hospice’s new rehabilitation service in 2019 when his physiotherapist referred him.
"Not only did the wonderful staff all help me physically, they also helped me with my mental health, enabling me to come to terms with and accept my ongoing progression," he said.
"Most people think of a hospice in terms of end of life care for cancer patients but my eyes were really opened to the many different conditions and stages of illness they provide for."
He said the hospice helped him begin a new chapter in his life.
"I’m so grateful for all the hard work and input I’ve received from their whole care team," he added.
"If I could tie up my yellow laces and do a sponsored run to help Highland Hospice, I wouldn’t hesitate.
"So if you can do it to support me and the many others who receive their care, I really would be grateful. Thank you."
For full information on the Step Out campaign, visit highlandhospice.org.
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