JASON SETNYK
The annual Hike for Hospice brought together families, volunteers, sponsors, and community supporters for a day focused on remembrance and raising funds for Carefor Hospice Cornwall programs and services.
The event featured a community hike, music and family activities, and a BBQ hosted by the Kinsmen Club of Cornwall. Participants also had the opportunity to paint memorial rocks in honour of loved ones, with the rocks set to become part of a revamped memorial rock garden through a Habitat for Humanity beautification project.
This year’s event introduced a new fundraising recognition initiative, with medals awarded to the top fundraising team or individual and a plaque to be displayed at Hospice recognizing their contribution. Lise Haines was recognized as the top fundraiser after raising $2,000 through “Team Jack Haines,” created in memory of her late husband.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who participated, donated, volunteered, sponsored, and supported the event,” said Rhonda Simpson, Fundraising Manager with Carefor Hospice Cornwall.
“The run is more than just about fundraising, it’s also a day to commemorate and remember loved ones, and to visit as a family,” added Simpson. Organizers described the atmosphere throughout the day as energetic and emotional, with residents from across Cornwall and SDG coming together to support compassionate end-of-life care and grief support services close to home. Following the event, Hospice announced that $30,000 had been raised. “You can still donate until the end of May at carefor.ca/event/hike,” said Simpson.
The fundraiser was presented by Dignity Memorial – Lahaie and Sullivan Cornwall Funeral Homes and M. John Sullivan. Organizers thanked walkers, teams, volunteers, donors, and sponsors for helping make the event successful.
MP Eric Duncan said hospice services have touched many people in Cornwall and SDG, including several of his own friends. He noted that former MP Guy Lauzon spent his final days at hospice, making the cause especially personal for him. “To make a donation in memory of someone like that, and so other people can have the same opportunity, it’s a gift that keeps giving,” said Duncan. MPP Nolan Quinn added that the hospice “has supported our community with both compassion and dignity,” adding the fundraiser helps ensure families continue receiving quality care “when we need it most.”
The event also took place during National Hospice Palliative Care Week, observed from May 3 to May 9. Hospice representatives noted the week serves as a reminder of the importance of compassionate care, caregiver support, grief services, and community connection during difficult times. Carefor Hospice Cornwall also highlighted ongoing grief support programming available in the community. A free grief support session is scheduled for May 26 from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., with registration required through Hospice.
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