A journalist's return to roots

Why it matters: St Elizabeth Hospice provides free care to over 4,000 patients and their families throughout the region each year, offering specialist support whenever and wherever it is needed.

The big picture: The Midnight Walk, now in its 19th year, returns on Saturday, 10 May at Trinity Park Events with a pyjama party theme. Last year's event raised over £135,000 to support the hospice's vital services.

The details: Sponsored by Persimmon Homes Suffolk, the event will see hundreds of walkers dress in their most vibrant and colourful pyjamas as they take on the route.

• The seven-mile circular route takes walkers through Ipswich streets

• Participants will walk to the hospice grounds to write messages on a special Memory Wall

• The route continues to Ipswich Waterfront before returning to Trinity Park

More than a charity event: The Wishart family's connection to the hospice goes beyond the Midnight Walk. Ross explained that Jemma first came under the hospice's care in early 2024, after receiving cancer treatment and support from Ipswich Hospital.

Initially, the hospice provided guidance to help them care for Jemma at home. Eventually, she was admitted to the Inpatient Unit in Ipswich, where she received care for several weeks until her death.

"Contrary to what many people might expect, the hospice is a warm and homely environment -- not a scary place at all," Ross said.

"From the moment you walk through the doors, everyone greets you with a smile. The volunteers at reception are so kind, and the staff are exceptional."

What they're saying: "We are eternally grateful for the love and support the hospice provided to Jemma and our family," explained Ross Wishart, whose wife Jemma received support from St Elizabeth Hospice until her death, aged 38, in July 2024.

"The hospice gave Jemma a peaceful and dignified end-of-life, allowing us to be together as a family and share precious moments. These memories will stay with us forever, and I cannot thank the hospice enough for making that possible," he added.

"We've always been keen fundraisers for various charities. While Jemma was receiving care, our family participated in the charity's Midnight Walk," Ross continued.

"It was a fantastic event, and at the halfway point, the route takes you through the hospice. Jemma was able to see us there and wish us well, which made the experience even more special."

James Fox-Golding, Events and Challenges Manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: "The excitement is really building as the Midnight Walk draws closer! We're looking forward to coming together with the community and our supporters to bring a fantastic party atmosphere to Ipswich for this much-loved fundraiser."

What's next: All ticket proceeds and donations for Midnight Walk will go to St Elizabeth Hospice, which provides support to patients and families living with life-limiting illnesses across the region.

The bottom line: "Whether through fundraising, volunteering, or taking part in events like the Midnight Walk, you're making a real difference to families like mine who are supported by the hospice during difficult times in their lives," said Ross.

For more details and to book Midnight Walk 2025 tickets, visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/get-involved/events/all-events-challenges/midnight-walk/ or email midnightwalk@stelizabethhospice.org.uk for queries.

To find out more about St Elizabeth Hospice call 01473 727776 or visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk.