Saint Francis Hospice call on residents to take part in walking campaign

Ward Sister at Saint Francis Hospice, Debbie Alexander (credit: SFH)

Saint Francis Hospice is calling on residents “to step into a nurse’s shoes” by taking part in their walking campaign.

The “Step Up” challenge involves walking 12,000 steps every day during March to represent the daily average shift amount taken by a hospice nurse.

More than 1,500 people across Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Redbridge, Brentwood and West Essex have been cared for by the hospice through the pandemic.

The charity has seen the demand for their care services increase over the past year as they help on the frontline to relieve pressure of other NHS services.

Ward Sister, Debbie Alexander said: “So much has changed over the past 12 months due to the pandemic and we’ve been caring for more people than ever, but what never changes is the love and care we give to local people – both at the hospice and in the community.”

“This latest lockdown has been really tough for everyone and the cold weather and short days have kept us indoors for long enough.

“And with the Hospice relying on donations, we’re really hoping our community will get behind our exciting Step Up campaign.

“Every second counts for people under our care so every step our supporters take will make a real difference to someone’s life.”

The hospice provides care and support to individuals with a life-limiting illness, as well as their carers and family members.

Senior Nurse, Tracey McGarry (credit: SFH) 

Senior Nurse, Tracey McGarry said: “Every day we see many patients and families dealing with their own journey and the pandemic and we can only endeavour to support them as much as possible,” 

“Every shift is different and it is the little things make the biggest difference to our patients.

“It has been hard not being able to give patients and relatives a supportive hug but despite the restrictions, we’ve put in place to keep everyone safe, loved ones have still been able to visit and spend precious time with loved ones and that means so much.

“The pandemic has really made us focus on what is most important in life. Most of us take our health and wellbeing for granted when it isn’t guaranteed and working at the Hospice makes you appreciate your health and independence.”

Anyone interested in taking up the Step Up challenge in March can find out more by visiting the Saint Francis Hospice website.

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