A determined daughter has set herself a tough challenge to mark a milestone birthday while raising money in memory of her mum.
Louise Riccardi, who lives in Droitwich, is preparing to take on the 21-mile St Richard’s Hospice Waterways Walk on Sunday 6th August.
The 49-year-old decided to take on the trek to celebrate her upcoming 50th birthday – but also to raise money for the hospice which cared for her mum, Pat Cottrill.
“My mum was cared for at the hospice during her very short illness,” said Mrs Riccardi. “The nurses and carers were amazing.
“I will never be able to thank all the staff enough for their unique support, help and compassion during this horrific time that we as a family had to live through.
“My mum was a loving, caring person who always thought of others before herself. I miss her every day, so if I can raise money to help the hospice continue its marvellous work it’s the least I can do.
Pat Cottrill
“I need to make sure that other families have this support that we were very privileged to receive.”
Along with her brother, Ian Cottrill, Mrs Riccardi will set off from Droitwich Spa Marina on the circular route along the county’s waterways.
The pair will be joined by many other walkers raising money for the hospice’s care for patients living with life-limiting illnesses, their families and bereaved people across Worcestershire.
Kelly Johns, Fundraiser at St Richard’s, said: “Louise’s story is a really inspiring one and we wish her all the best with our challenge.
“The Waterways Walk is always a popular event in the hospice’s calendar, offering people the chance to get outside and exercise – while raising money for St Richard’s.”
Mrs Riccardi is hoping to raise £750 for the hospice after smashing her original target of £500. To make a donation visit her JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/louise-riccardi
Now in its eighth year, the St Richard’s Waterways Walk offers a choice of three distances: a 21-mile circular route starting and finishing at Droitwich Spa Marina; an 11-mile linear route from Diglis to Droitwich Spa Marina, or a family-friendly six-mile circular route from Perdiswell in Worcester.
All routes are on flat terrain, following clearly marked footpaths and map reading skills are not required. The event is sponsored by Droitwich Spa Marina.
To register visit www.strichards.org.uk/waterways-walk
St Richard’s Hospice provides free specialist palliative care for patients living with life-limiting illnesses and supports their loved ones. Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,000 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire.
The hospice strives to provide the best medical, practical, emotional and social support they can to help people live life to the fullest, as independently as they can, for as long as they can.
St Richard’s is an independent charity and is grateful for all donations to help it continue its work.
Find out more at www.strichards.org.uk