A young woman from Chesterfield is preparing to take on a demanding 17-mile trek through the Peak District this spring, driven by a powerful personal mission to honour her father and support the hospice that cared for him.
A Personal Challenge for a Vital Cause
Bethany Li, aged 24, will join Ashgate Hospice's annual High Peak Trail Walk on Sunday, March 22. She is participating in memory of her dad, Lung Li, who passed away from cancer in March 2024 at the age of 51. The event invites walkers of all abilities to raise crucial funds for end-of-life care across North Derbyshire.
The walk follows the historic path of the former Cromford and High Peak Railway, offering stunning views of the Derbyshire countryside. Participants will gather at Cromford Meadows before being transported by coach to their chosen starting point. There are three distance options: the full 17-mile trek, an 11-mile walk, or a family-friendly 3.5-mile route. Support and refreshments will be available along all routes.
Cherished Memories and Compassionate Care
Lung Li, who owned Halo Taxis in Chesterfield, was diagnosed with cancer in February 2023. After months of treatment, he was admitted to Ashgate Hospice as an inpatient in December 2023. Bethany, who is in her final year of a nursing degree at the University of Derby, recalls the profound impact the hospice had on her family.
"The staff at Ashgate were amazing with all of us," Bethany said. "They always made sure my dad was comfortable and took the time to check in with us too. He had a double room so my younger brother and sisters could stay overnight, which meant everything. Ashgate allowed us to see my dad settled and without pain. That's something I will always cherish."
She describes her father as deeply family-orientated, with fond memories of movie nights after trips to Blockbuster and the Chinese dishes he loved to cook. "Whenever I rewatch the James Bond or Marvel films, they always remind me of him," she added.
A Commitment to Fundraising
Since her father's death, Bethany has pledged to fundraise for Ashgate Hospice every year. In 2024, she and her brother raised £2,300 by completing a Tough Mudder obstacle course. This year, she has decided to "go big" by recruiting friends to join her on the longest 17-mile route of the High Peak Trail Walk.
"I'm feeling positive about it," Bethany stated. "We've all been training with long hikes. It's a big challenge, but it's for such a good cause – and I know that feeling at the finish line will be worth it."
Entry fees for the walk are £15 per adult for the 17-mile and 11-mile routes, and £10 for adults on the 3.5-mile walk (children £5). The fee includes a commemorative t-shirt, medal, coach transfer, and refreshments. To register, visit the Ashgate Hospice website or call the fundraising team on 01246 567 250.
