This year's Hike for Hospice in Chatham-Kent raised almost $175,000 to provide end-of-life care to those in need, breaking last year's record of more than $167,500.
CK Hospice noted it needs $182,000 in donations each month to support its operating requirements.
On Tuesday afternoon, Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation Executive Director Jodi Maroney reported that more than 250 hikers of the over 400 people who registered braved the rain on Sunday and headed out along Mud Creek Trail in Chatham for the 9th Annual Hike for Hospice.
The total raised over the past nine years is more than $1.15 million to support families at no cost to them, said Maroney.
“For a week, the trail was adorned with signs displayed in memory of loved ones no longer with us. One of those signs was for my mom. She spent her final nine days at Hospice where she received the best compassionate care and was surrounded by so much love. I give back to this incredible organization by participating in the Hike. We do it in her honour. It is my gift and my thank you to Chatham-Kent Hospice while keeping my mom’s memory alive, through love, service and community,” said Katie Holmes, a seven-time hiker.
The Chatham-Kent Hospice is a 10-bed residential facility that offers care for residents facing end of life and support for their loved ones, providing comfort, support and specialized pain and symptom management in a home-like setting.
It also provides around the clock care by dedicated physicians, nurses, personal support workers and volunteers.
More than 1,578 families and over 2,239 individuals have received services and support from CK Hospice since it opened in April 2016.