Charlie, a student at Kingswood School and a Young Ambassador for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW), recently inspired his family to take on an extraordinary cycling challenge in aid of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).
After visiting Charlton Farm hospice and witnessing the vital support offered to children and their families — particularly the care given to siblings — Charlie was deeply moved. Motivated by his experience, Charlie shared about the visit with his parents, Kate and Nick, both of whom are local GPs working in Keynsham and Bath, and who have experience of CHSW.
Determined to support the work of CHSW, Kate and Nick used their annual leave to join Charlie’s brother Dan on an ambitious 1,000-mile cycling challenge from Land’s End to John O’Groats. From 7 to 19 July, the family pedalled from the southernmost tip to the northernmost point of mainland Britain, braving tough terrain and a summer heatwave to raise vital funds for the charity.
The local children’s hospice provides expert care and support for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions across the region. With services including short breaks, specialist play, sibling support and end-of-life care, CHSW relies almost entirely on public donations to continue its work. Less than 11% of its annual £14 million running costs comes from government funding.
“The Woodward’s are an incredible family who completed this amazing challenge on some of the hottest days of the year and have raised more than £5000 to date thanks to the support of their family and friends,” said Heidi Roberts, Area Fundraiser for CHSW. “This amount will make a big difference to the families in our care, and we can’t thank them enough for doing this challenge in aid of CHSW”.
Nick said, “We are really grateful for all those who so generously donated and allowed us to raise such a good amount for the three hospices in the South West. It was great to visit Little Harbour on route and see first hand the incredible work they are doing for families. The ride was a fantastic experience for us as a family and one I would recommend to others (if they like cycling.)”
Along the way, they were joined by friends and supporters — some cycled with them near Chew Magna, while others cheered them on or met up for meals.
To support the Woodwards’ fundraising efforts, please visit: www.justgiving.com/page/ride1000miles4chsw
