Gemma’s Hospice Story
“St Elizabeth Hospice were there when I cried, listened when I felt overwhelmed and gave guidance when I did not know what to do. With their support I felt protected and cared for every step of the way.”
Since 2016, St Elizabeth Hospice’s much-loved Midnight Walk has seen the independent Suffolk charity encourage the local community to don their brightest fancy dress outfits and bring the party atmosphere to Ipswich to raise funds for the hospice through sponsorship, as well as providing an opportunity to remember loved ones who are no longer with us.
This year is no different, with the 2026 edition of the flagship fundraiser seeing hundreds of supporters set to wear superhero clothing as they complete walks of 6 or 9 miles throughout Suffolk’s county town, going past landmarks such as Ipswich Town Hall, The Regent Theatre and Christchurch Park.
One person who will be taking part in this year’s Midnight Walk, is Gemma Holland, who will also be setting our walkers on their way as she pays tribute to her dad, Terry Holland, who died aged 80-years-old in December 2025, from cancer, while under the care of St Elizabeth Hospice.
“Dad’s wish was to die at home, and we were only able to honour this because of the support from St Elizabeth Hospice,” said Gemma, who is from Ipswich.
“They offered comfort, reassurance and guidance at every stage, helping us through an incredibly difficult time and ensuring Dad could stay at home where he felt safest.
“We first came under their care in September 2025, after Dad was diagnosed with cancer and given around three months to live.
“Within days of his diagnosis, a hospice nurse came to see us at home. Dad wanted to die at home. We were reassured that they would support us through to the end and they remained true to their word as we knew they would do.
“In November, he had a short stay in the Inpatient Unit for pain management, then returned home with the same level of amazing support. The hospice coordinated all his care, provided essential equipment like a hospital bed and specialist pillow, and gave us one clear point of contact.
“Their OneCall service became a 24-hour lifeline. St Elizabeth Hospice were there when I cried, listened when I felt overwhelmed and gave guidance when I did not know what to do. With their support I felt protected and cared for every step of the way.
“Following Dad’s care from the hospice, my support of the charity feels even more meaningful to me now, which is why I will be taking part in this year’s Midnight Walk.
“In fact, I worked for the charity around a decade ago and, since leaving, I have continued to support through volunteering and fundraising, as I was deeply moved by the hospice’s ethos and the difference it makes to people’s lives.
“Currently, I volunteer with the hospice’s young adult service, Zest, where I help to coordinate activities at their monthly X-Change social nights.
“I also support the charity as a hospice ambassador and volunteer at fundraising events such as the Christmas Day Dip, where I compere, and the Midnight Walk, where I marshal. Both these events have such a great buzz around them, as everyone unites over their shared love for the hospice.
“In the past, I also volunteered as an Inpatient Unit Ward Clerk on reception. It has been wonderful to experience a variety of different roles and get to know so many members of the team.
“At Zest, it is always so much fun. You get to know many of the characters who attend Zest – their personalities, likes and dislikes, as well as their families too.
“I always say that with volunteering, you get back so much more than you put in. There is such warmth and enjoyment throughout the hospice, and you feel rewarded knowing you are making a real difference in your local community.
“This is why I am so proud to support the work of the hospice. Since 2011, I have raised over £12,000 for their services through a variety of ways, including hosting quizzes, taking part in fire walks, skydiving, climbing Machu Picchu, and joining the hospice’s own fundraising events such as the Midnight Walk in 2011.
“I know from volunteering and taking part in previous Midnight Walks what an amazing event it is, and this year will be no different. It is a challenge, but the support of fellow walkers and the people who come out to cheer you on carries you through. I cannot wait for Midnight Walk 2026!
“This year I will be completing the 6-mile route with a group of 15 friends – called Team Terry. We are already planning which superhero costumes we will wear, but I know this year will be more emotional for me as I will be thinking of Dad.
“It will be the first time I take a moment to reflect at the Memory Wall at the hospice, giving me the opportunity for personal reflection and remembrance.
“Every pound donated at Midnight Walk will make a difference to those under the hospice’s compassionate care.
“From my own experience, I know just how vital their services are, and the incredible amount the hospice must fundraise each year shows why our collective support, as a community, is so important.
“You never know when you might need the hospice, but I know from personal experience that their support is always there, with staff who step forward for you and your family whenever it’s needed.
“There are 101 reasons to fundraise, volunteer, or support the hospice in any way you can. For me, the most important is my belief that end-of-life care deserves the same love, respect, and compassion as the care given at the start of life.
“St Elizabeth Hospice provides this and more, which is why I show my love and support for them whenever I can.”