Latest News

Trio dedicate Peru trek to gran and hospice

09 June 2011

Two sisters have experienced a trip of a lifetime and completed a trek across Peru in memory of their grandma and in support of Saint Francis Hospice.

Sidra and Sana Sarwar from Barking, and their friend Zarina Chaudhry, from Ilford, spent four days trekking through the sub-tropical jungles of Peru and climbed more than 4,200 metres to see the 15th century Inca site at Machu Picchu.

The trio did the trip in memory of Sidra and Sana’s grandma Hamida Sarwar, from Barking, who received care from Saint Francis Hospice before she sadly died of cancer in November 2010. They have raised around £2,000 for the Havering-based hospice.

Sana, who returned home on May 14th, said: “The trek was more demanding than I expected as it was difficult to get your breath at points during the climb. However, the scenery was incredible and it was worth the aching feet knowing we were raising money for the hospice.”

Zarina, a biomedical scientist at King George’s Hospital, Goodmayes, added: “The trip has left me feeling physically and mentally refreshed. I found it challenging on many aspects, particularly because I was scared of heights and didn’t like crossing rickety wooden bridges. The altitude made every step difficult but the fact that we were raising money for such a good cause made me even more determined to reach my destination.

She continued: “The hospice plays such an important role in allowing people with life-limiting illnesses to lead the life they want and it’s reassuring to know  that they would be there if  my friends or family needed any support. The hospice did such a wonderful job for Sana’s family, we were glad to be supporting you.”

Sana explained that her grandma was able to spend her final days at home thanks to the Saint Francis Hospice at Home nurses, who came to her home and provided care and support she needed to be comfortable. She said: “The hospice nurses provided my family with so much support during the most difficult time. Their support meant Gran passed away peacefully at home, and not in hospital, surrounded by people who loved her, exactly as she wished.”

Community fundraiser Rochelle Hodds, said: “The girls showed real commitment organising the trip and raising money for Saint Francis Hospice and we really appreciate their efforts. The £2,000 they have raised could enable another family to benefit from the support of a Hospice at Home nurse for 48 hours. We depend on people like Sana, Sidra and Zarina to help raise the £7.2 million needed this year alone to provide our vital care services, free to people affected by life-limiting illness.”
 

« News