Now, for the fifth consecutive year, the Ryans are gearing up for the popular 10k Twilight Walk, and they’re inviting others to join them in this meaningful event. It’s an opportunity to honour loved ones, share cherished memories, and come together as a community in support of ellenor’s vital work.
On September 20th, Tom and Laura Ryan will be remembering, among others, Debra Barden, who suffered a brain tumour and was at the hospice for six months in 2019 before she died at the age of 42. Her name will be on the back of their bright orange Twilight Walk tee-shirts, along with the names of other people they have known who have received end-of-life care from the charity.
Laura said: “A lot of people know someone who has been helped by ellenor, but whether you have that personal connection or not, this is an amazing community event. There’s a brilliant atmosphere and it’s very emotional, especially reading all the messages on the back of people’s tee-shirts.
“You always meet so many people you know. For a couple of years, our house was on the route, so people were even running in to use the toilet. And now the Gurdwara Temple are involved it’s wonderful. They make such tasty snacks for the halfway stop.
“I have always known about ellenor as we are a Gravesend family. Sadly we have had dear family members and friends have had parents who have died at the hospice. Our friend’s dad passed away there last year and another good friend lost her mum earlier this year. It’s so important for the community to support ellenor. You presume everyone knows about it, but of course there are new people coming to the area all the time, so it’s important to share news and stories especially on Facebook and other social media.
“Since becoming involved I have learned so much more about what ellenor does. You might think it is for people going into the hospice when they are dying but it is not just about the hospice ward. ellenor does so much in the community and for the families of patients, providing services like counselling. They also came out to my friend’s mum, caring for her at home before she passed away.”
The Twilight Walk is an evening walk around the town of Gravesend, with participants painting the town orange with their tee-shirts, and fancy-dress outfits. Laura and Ella first took part in 2019.
Laura said: “Our friend Debra was in the hospice when we did the walk for the first time along with many other of her family and friends. We all went to visit her before we set out on an incredibly emotional walk. After that first year, the company I worked for gave some sponsorship, and some of us also came into the hospice to help collect Christmas gifts and decorating the tree. Myself and 2 colleagues also did the London to Gravesend Walkathon organised by ellenor in 2021 raising £1400.
