A determined team of fourteen fundraisers has conquered one of the world's most formidable landscapes, completing a demanding 100km trek across the Sahara Desert in Morocco. Their incredible effort has raised a monumental sum of more than £43,000 for St David's Hospice, a vital service providing free care for adults with advanced and terminal illnesses across Conwy, Gwynedd, and Anglesey.
Braving the Elements for a Vital Cause
Equipped with sunblock and sturdy hiking boots, the team navigated a gruelling route through the Moroccan part of the desert. They faced intense, relentless heat and traversed challenging terrain that included vast expanses of hot sand, ancient riverbeds, and towering sand dunes. This extraordinary challenge was undertaken to support a hospice that requires over £6 million to operate this year alone, the majority of which is generated through community fundraising.
Personal Motivation Behind the Challenge
Among the trekkers was long-time hospice supporter, Sophie Morris, who has previously taken on other fundraising challenges. She shared her powerful motivation for participating, stating she has known several people who have needed the hospice's services. "I am always in awe of the care they provide," Morris said. "Their ability to bring comfort, structure, and guidance to individuals and families at their most difficult moments is nothing short of remarkable." This sentiment highlights the critical nature of the hospice's work, which is provided at no cost to patients, their families, or carers.
A Collective Achievement for Community Care
Shannon Kelly-Jones, from the hospice's fundraising team, expressed profound gratitude for the team's commitment. "I want to thank every one of our Sahara Trek participants for raising an extraordinary £43,000 to date for St David's Hospice," she said. "Their commitment means so much to the patients and families we support." Kelly-Jones also extended thanks to the challenge partner, Adventurous Ewe, for their expert leadership throughout the expedition, calling the fundraising success a "true team effort" that will make a significant difference to the local community.
