Emily Lockwood, from Stowmarket, has raised more than £550 for St Elizabeth Hospice after taking on and successfully completing a 100km sponsored ultra-walk in aid of the hospice, which provides free services to improve life for people living with a progressive or life limiting illness throughout East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
Starting on 4th September and finishing on 5th September, Emily’s challenge saw her walk continuously for 28 hours, on a journey which began in Eastbourne, passing through Seven Sisters and the South Downs, before finishing at Arundel Castle.
She was inspired to fundraise for the hospice as, like many people in Suffolk, Emily has had relatives and knows many others who have received care and support from the independent Suffolk charity.
“It all began from a random conversation in 2020, when a friend planted the idea in my head and I knew I wanted to commit to something that would challenge me physically and mentally, all while raising money for the hospice,” explained Emily.
“I had already signed myself up to the hospice’s Midnight Walk and then began looking for other challenges before I found the 100km ultra-walk, but seeing news reports following the outbreak of Covid-19 about the impact of the pandemic on hospices, only inspired me to try and help in any way I could.
“The ultra-walk was really tough but it felt incredible to finish and I was very tearful at the finish line as the last 25km had been a flint path, with each step being extremely painful! I am so grateful to all who supported me and made a donation. I am just hoping my feet heal in time for the Midnight Walk half marathon distance this October.”
In preparation for the challenge Emily committed herself to completing at least 10,000 steps a day, regularly visiting her gym and taking part in frequent walks with her friend Tracey; with the final training walk consisting of 30 miles in one go.
Joanne Rodger, Events and Challenges Manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: “A big congratulations to Emily for completing her ultra-walk. What an achievement!
“The funds she has raised will make a big difference to the hospice and will help us to continue to provide and develop our services in order to support patients and families in our local community during very difficult times in their lives.
“The whole hospice is so grateful for her support and wish her the best of luck when she takes part in our Midnight Walk 2021 later this year.”
To donate towards Emily’s fundraising total visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/emily-lockwood4.
To find out more about how you could fundraise for St Elizabeth Hospice call 01473 723600 or email fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk.