Hospice mum’s Wellbeing Walk in support of Francis House

A mum from Romiley in Stockport whose daughter has complex medical needs and requires round the clock care, is organising a wellbeing walk to raise money for Francis House Children’s Hospice.

Sarah Wood’s daughter Devon, aged 10, has been supported by the hospice in Didsbury since she was a baby, following a referral by a family paediatrician.

A ‘Pause and Notice’ walk will be held on Thursday, August 6, and led by Sarah, who is also the founder of Capture & Calm Walks, a community interest company that helps people connect through nature, creativity and community.

The inclusive and wellbeing walk will set off from outside the hospice on Parrswood Road in Didsbury at 12.30 pm and will last for approximately one hour. A suggested donation of £5 will go towards the funding of vital hospice services.

Francis House supports more than 435 families from across Greater Manchester providing holistic care in a home from home environment to the families of children and young adults with life-shortening or life-threatening conditions.

Sarah said: “When we were first referred to Francis House, everything felt overwhelming and we didn’t know what support was available. Francis House has been part of our lives for almost 10 years, so we know first hand the incredible difference their care and support makes to families like ours. Devon faces significant challenges, but they don’t define who she is. She is funny, determined, loving and full of character.

“Francis House gives Devon the chance to simply be a little girl. She loves the sensory room, the hydrotherapy pool, the art room and the soft play.

“It’s somewhere our whole family feel welcomed and understood. Devon’s two young brothers Ryder and Roman have grown up knowing Francis House since they were born. We honestly can’t imagine our journey without them.

“Francis House has played such a big part in all of our lives that giving something back felt like the natural thing to do.”

The Step into Calm walk takes place on Thursday, August 6, departing 12.30pm from outside Francis House Children’s Hospice, 390 Parrswood Road, Didsbury M20 5NA. For more information and to register visit bookwhen.com/capture.