Sobell House Hospice Staff Launch 50 Dog Walks Challenge for 50th Anniversary Fundraiser
Staff at Sobell House Hospice are stepping up to support their own charity this year by taking on personal fundraising challenges as part of the hospice's 50 for 50 campaign. This initiative marks 50 years of dedicated care for local people in Oxfordshire, encouraging supporters across the region to create their own fundraising activities inspired by the number 50. Whether it's walking 50 miles, baking 50 cakes, or hosting a 50-question quiz, the goal is to raise vital funds for the hospice's ongoing services.
Inspired by Canine Companionship
Leading by example are two members of the hospice charity team: Deborah Balchin, Future Gifts Manager, and Hailey Paige, Events Planner. They have set themselves the ambitious challenge of completing 50 different dog walks throughout the year. This effort is deeply rooted in the hospice's history with animals, which have long been a part of life at Sobell House. From beloved family pets and therapy dogs to unexpected visits, these animals bring comfort, joy, and connection during difficult times for patients and families.
The inspiration for their challenge dates back to 1993, when one of the hospice's first therapy dogs had a litter of puppies. Many of these puppies were adopted by Sobell House staff, including one of the hospice's first nurses and the original lead of its bereavement services. Today, therapy dogs continue to visit the hospice, upholding a cherished tradition of providing companionship and solace.
Celebrating History and Supporting Future Care
Hailey Paige shared her motivation for the challenge, stating: "Working for Sobell House means we see every day how much the hospice means to local families. Taking on this challenge felt like a great way to celebrate its history and help raise funds so that care can continue for many years to come." The charity is actively encouraging individuals, workplaces, and community groups to get involved by creating their own 50 for 50 challenges to support the hospice's mission.
To support Hailey and Deborah's fundraiser, visit their dedicated page, or to start your own challenge, explore the hospice's fundraising resources. They are also documenting their journey through a special blog, sharing updates and stories from their dog walks.
Additional Anniversary Celebrations
In other news, Sobell House is celebrating its 50th anniversary with creative displays from Living Well patients. They have designed miniature interpretations of the Forever Flowers display planned for Blenheim Palace from May 8-10. These handcrafted flowers are on display in the Living Well lounge at the hospice for patients and visitors to enjoy. The main display at Blenheim will feature 680 golden, metal flowers, representing the number of patients cared for at any one time. Supporters can donate and dedicate a flower, which they can keep afterward, with over two-thirds already dedicated.
Additionally, with Bike Oxford approaching, Walton Street Cycles has generously offered to lend bikes to Team Sobell participants for training and the event day, removing barriers for those without their own equipment.
For more information on these initiatives and other stories from Sobell House Hospice, including opportunities to remember loved ones through the Forever Flowers display, visit the hospice's official channels.
