Our Taunton Sunflower Stroll, held on Sunday, September 15 2024, created a wonderful space to remember loved ones, experience the beauty of nature, and fundraise for a great cause. The gorgeous 4K stroll began in Longrun Meadow, providing participants with beautiful views, stunning greenery and plenty of fresh air. We are proud to announce that our 120 fantastic participants raised over £5,000!
The stroll finished at the hospice in Bishop’s Hull, where participants were able to plant their special sunflower markers in dedication to loved ones. They treated themselves to delicious afternoon teas, sipped on cheeky glasses of fizz, and devoured the delightful cakes provided by Mademoiselle Desserts, the marvellous Taunton bakery. Amongst the verdant greenery of the hospice gardens, the melodies of the Rivertones Harmony Chorus provided a charming musical backdrop to the day of connection and community spirit.
The event , raised crucial funds for the Sunflower Day Hospice Centre. The centre provides companionship and care for people who are well enough to live at home, yet still need access to specialist support. The centre offers a holistic service to meet patients’ emotional, physical and social needs, including group talking sessions, physiotherapy, arts and crafts, spiritual guidance, and much more. The Sunflower Centre is essential for these people’s health and happiness, and supporting events like the Sunflower Stroll can help its vital work to continue.
Louise has been battling cancer since January 2018. She was referred to the Sunflower Centre, but initially found the concept of going into hospice frightening, unsure what the referral could mean.
However, she was quickly put at ease when she found that the staff were experienced and compassionate, and that “the other patients made you feel like you were part of their family.” The Sunflower Centre began to help Louise with her pain, provided her with complementary therapies, art therapies, and supported her in writing her will. “Now, every time I go there, I try to stay as long as possible,” Louise says.
It is only through charitable donations and the support of the community that the Sunflower Centre can continue to help people like Louise.
Events Manager, Merle Harrison-Croft said “we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants of Sunday’s stroll, as well as everyone who sponsored them. Thanks also go to Mademoiselle Desserts for their exquisite cakes, and the Rivertones Harmony Chorus for their excellent music. Finally, we must not forget to express gratitude to the brilliant volunteers, without whom St Margaret’s work would not be possible”.