SEASONED NIGHTWALKER CELEBRATES 17 YEARS OF TAKING PART IN FLAGSHIP HOSPICE FUNDRAISER
2025 will mark Linda's 17th year of taking part in North Devon Hospice's iconic ladies walk alongside five other friends who accompany her every year.
2025 will mark Linda's 17th year of taking part in North Devon Hospice's iconic ladies walk alongside five other friends who accompany her every year.
In 2007, Betty Blackmore passed away comfortably at home thanks to the support of North Devon Hospice. The year after in 2008, her daughter Linda Weeks took part in Nightwalk – the hospice’s iconic sponsored ladies’ walk - for the first time and has continued to do so ever since.
“When Mum became ill, we relied on the hospice for support at home and they were absolutely brilliant,” said Linda, 67, from Ilfracombe. “From the moment we were referred, our hospice nurse visited regularly and provided the most amazing care not just to Mum but to our whole family. We really connected with her and went on a journey together; things could have been so different without her support.”
After Betty’s passing, Linda wanted to do something special in memory of her mum and to thank the hospice for everything they had done, so she decided to take part in Nightwalk.
“For the past 17 years, Nightwalk has been a staple in my calendar – I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” added Linda. “I walk with five other ladies and we range in age from 51 to 78 – it really is an event for everyone! Over the years, we’ve been treated to some fabulous themes and always enjoy seeing everyone there and meeting some lovely people who all seem to have such wonderful stories about the hospice and how they’ve helped them or a loved one. It’s a truly magical evening that we love to get involved in.”
For Linda and hundreds of other women across North Devon, the atmosphere of Nightwalk is always special. But she never forgets her motivation for taking part and why it’s so important to continue supporting the hospice through this vital fundraising event.
“No matter how much time passes, my family and I will never forget what was done for us and the incredible support we received during what was ultimately one of the most difficult times in our lives,” said Linda. “Walking at Nightwalk is a way for me to give something back and play my part to help other families get the care and support we all deserve in our final days, whether that’s at home or the hospice.”
To join Linda and the thousand other trailblazers who will be striding under the stars for local hospice care at this year’s Nightwalk, visit nightwalk.org.uk to sign up today.