By Susan Wade
Life is a journey, with many paths to follow and bridges to cross. Hospice Northwest volunteers are companions on that journey, ensuring no one has to travel alone.
On Sunday May 4th volunteers, the families they’ve supported, and community members in Thunder Bay will join together for the 3rd annual Hike for Hospice at Boulevard Lake. The event launches National Palliative Care Week, but all the money raised stays in our community, providing physical, emotional and social assistance to patients and their families and loved ones.
Paul Morralee, Chair of Hospice Northwest’s Hike for Hospice Committee, describes the theme of the 2014 Hike. “This year, the theme of Hospice Northwest’s Hike for Hospice is crossing bridges—bridges of awareness that will help educate, raise awareness and enhance the quality of end-of-life care for the people of our community.” At the heart of Hike for Hospice is recognizing and respecting the memory of loved ones. “As we hike around scenic Boulevard Lake on May 4th, Morralee adds, “our hikers will have an opportunity to pause for a moment of quiet reflection on the historic Black Bay Bridge and gently release a flower into the waters below, in celebration of the lives of those we have lost.”
But the day is also about fun and celebrating community spirit.
Hikers from all walks of life, ages and abilities are registering for the fundraiser, each with their own deeply personal reason for taking the journey along the trails. They’ll enjoy entertainment by local musician Robin Ranger, and exciting prizes will be awarded for the fund-raising efforts of walkers and teams registered in the event.
For more information call Hospice Northwest at 626-5573.
