GUELPH — June 4 marked the 19th “Hike for Hospice” event at Riverside Park here.
With a goal of reaching $40,000, Hospice Wellington officials outdid themselves, raising a total of $87,296.
After a warm-up from the Movati team to get people limbered up for their walk through the park path, Tammy Townsend and Carolyn Robb led participants, who were dressed in their team’s coloured shirts or costumes, all honouring their own special person.
This year’s special guests from the “Diva’s” team, Townsend and Robb spoke about being participants in the Palliative Day Program at Hospice Wellington, and how much it means to meet other people on the same journey and how supportive the group is for each other.
They were participating in honour of one of their fellow group members. Decked out in their team’s outfits, including pink tutus and wigs, the two women acted as this year’s Grand Marshals in leading the Hike.
Townsend was also the top fundraiser, with a total of $5,279. Her team raised a total of $8,400.
The event was topped off with the celebration of the outstanding teams and individuals. The hike was followed by a dog parade, with the crowd judging which pup with wings, or miniature jockeys or rockstar outfits won the wonderful prize baskets from Boréal Dog Foods.
Music therapist Catherine also led the group in a rendition of “Lean on Me” as a finale for folks celebrating the day they shared together.
“We are so delighted to see such a huge crowd of friends,” said executive director Pat Stuart at the event.
“I know that for some of you, your loss is very recent and feels so raw – we are here for you.”
