Hospice supporter shares story behind Rainbow Run sign up

A St Wilfrid’s Hospice supporter who has signed up for the charity’s Rainbow Run for the fourth time has shared the motivation behind her continued involvement.

Sarah Sturges became a keen supporter after the hospice cared for both her husband, Jon, and mum, Patricia. “I am sure I don't need to tell you the difference St Wilfrid's makes to patients and loved ones,” Sarah said.

“After Jon was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, they helped us emotionally and financially when we felt lost, from helping us get married to caring for him in his final days. In Jon’s final two weeks, I cared for him at home with the help and support of the St Wilfrid's team. I was so grateful and hoped and prayed I would never need to call them again.

“However, a few years later, mum was terminally ill with lung cancer, which had spread. Again, St Wilfrid's stepped in, and my mum spent her final days being cared for by them. It was during the period of Covid restrictions and for us, as a family, knowing mum did not pass away alone made such a difference at an extremely difficult time. Like many of you, we have all been affected one way or another by cancer and I do this for everyone,” Sarah added.

Tickets are selling fast for Rainbow Run, with nearly 1,200 already sold, meaning there are around 300 left. The event, on 6^th June, takes place at Nash Street Farm, near Hailsham. Participants can choose to run, jog, walk or skip around a 5km route, encountering seven paint stations, two foam stations and a big paint party at the end.

Beth Hillier, Events Manager at St Wilfrid's Hospice, said: “Rainbow Run is our most popular event and is perfect for families, friends, colleagues and anyone else who wants to experience the joy of running through the colours of the rainbow, while raising funds for hospice care. It has sold out for the past two years, so anyone who wants to take part needs to sign up soon. We’d also like to thank our sponsors Barwells Solicitors for their support in putting this event on.”

Visit stwhospice.org/rainbow for more information.