Grateful patients of the Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity Wellbeing Service have signed up for a heartfelt sponsored challenge, which allows them to give back to the place that has supported them so deeply.

Every Monday morning, a small but determined group of wellbeing patients gathers at the Northampton hospice for a weekly walk to catch up and check in on each other.

The walks are as varied as the 10 people taking part. Each patient has different levels of mobility, different goals, and different reasons for taking on the challenge, but they share one thing; a desire to make every step meaningful.

It was this that spurred them to turn the regular meet ups into a sponsored challenge. So far, the walkers have completed 206 circuits of the Woodland Trail in the hospice grounds in the course of a month, which adds up to a staggering 41.2 miles.

The team has raised almost £700 for the much-loved palliative care provider, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

And once the weekly laps are complete, the group returns to the wellbeing centre for a cherished ritual of cake, a hot drink, and a quiz.

“We were already doing the walking,” one patient said. “So, what better way to help the hospice.”

For many, the woodland path has become a place of progress. Some complete a single lap, others manage several, each one keeping track and aiming to gently improve week by week.

There’s no pressure – just encouragement, companionship, and the quiet pride of knowing that every lap is a small victory. “Every step is a step closer to our goals,” another patient shared, reflecting on how important these walks have become.

The woodland itself plays its part too. As the group moves along the path, they take in the changing flowers, the rustle of leaves, and the chorus of birds overhead. It’s a moment of calm, connection, and appreciation – an experience that many say they treasure.

“Sometimes this could be the only chance you get to go out and walk and speak to other people, and I really value that,” one patient explained. For them, the walk is not just exercise – it’s community.

And that sense of community is at the heart of why they chose to turn their weekly routine into a fundraiser. After receiving support from the wellbeing team, the group felt compelled to pay it forward.

“This is our way to give back,” they said simply. “It’s all about the cause. People are willing to support when you see what a worthy cause it is.”

Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity’s Ellie Sayers said: “This sponsored walk may take place in our small patch of woodland, but its impact stretches far beyond the trees. It’s a celebration of resilience, gratitude, and togetherness, proof that even the gentlest steps can make a powerful difference.”

If you would like to support the Wellbeing Walkers, you can donate at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/walking-group-2026