Serene and Kelly's fundraising challenges for Saint Francis Hospice

Serene and Kelly have been fundraising for Saint Francis Hospice since 2018 and have raised an incredible £8,883 so far. Fundraising is their way of giving back to the charity that has supported them and their loved ones when they needed it most. Here, Kelly shares why taking on their latest challenge, the T100 Triathlon, was such an emotional and rewarding achievement.

In January 2017, just three weeks after my partner Serene and I got married, our world changed forever. We were told that Serene had secondary breast cancer and that her illness was terminal. Shortly afterwards, Serene was referred to Saint Francis Hospice. Like many people, we initially approached the hospice with fear and uncertainty, but the moment we walked through the doors, those feelings disappeared. The warmth of the staff, the care they provided and the welcoming environment completely changed our perception of what a hospice is. From that day on, Saint Francis Hospice became a place that held a very special place in our hearts.  

Over the years, we've also seen the impact the hospice has had on other families. Close friends have shared their own experiences of loved ones being supported by Saint Francis, often describing it as a place of comfort, peace and compassion during the most difficult times. Knowing how many people rely on these services has only strengthened our commitment to support the hospice in any way we can.  

Fundraising has become one of the ways we give back. Since 2017, we have taken on a variety of challenges, including the London Marathon in 2019. Along the way, we've been supported by family too. My dad has spent countless hours busking in Romford to raise money for the hospice, and we've been overwhelmed by the generosity of the public. Time and again, people have stopped to donate and share their own stories of Saint Francis Hospice, which reinforces just how much the hospice means to our local community. 

Despite everything she faces, Serene continues to inspire me every day. Her strength, positivity and determination never cease to amaze me. The challenges of living with cancer, the treatments and the side effects would be enough to stop most people in their tracks, but Serene refuses to let them define her.  

When we started looking for our next fundraising challenge, we wanted something that would really push us outside our comfort zones. We decided to take on the T100 London Triathlon and, without hesitation, chose to raise money for Saint Francis Hospice. It felt like the perfect way to support the charity that has supported us for so many years.   

Training was far from straightforward. Serene is currently taking oral chemotherapy, which can severely affect her feet and balance. There were times when simply walking was difficult, never mind training for a triathlon. But true to form, she adapted, persevered and did whatever training she could. Watching her determination throughout the process was incredibly motivating. Together, we focused on one goal: getting to the start line.  

When race day arrived, our ambition was simple: finish. The nerves were certainly there, mixed with plenty of excitement. The conditions were challenging, with intense heat making every stage of the event tougher. Wearing our Saint Francis Hospice running and cycling kit gave us a real mental boost, and the support from spectators and fellow competitors was incredible. Many people recognised who we were fundraising for and cheered us on throughout the course.  

Crossing the finish line was one of the most emotional moments we've experienced together. There had been times during training when we genuinely questioned whether we would make it, so reaching that moment felt overwhelming and incredibly rewarding.  

Our journey has taught us not to take anything for granted. Life can change in an instant, so we've learned to embrace opportunities, face challenges together and make the most of every day. Fundraising challenges are about much more than physical achievement for us. They are a way of celebrating life, showing gratitude and helping ensure that other people can access the same outstanding care and support that we have received.  

Hospices play a vital role, not only for patients but for their families and loved ones too. Saint Francis Hospice provides comfort, dignity, reassurance and expert care when people need it most. We know first-hand how important that support is, and that's why we will continue setting ourselves new challenges and raising as much money as we can. Without fundraising, hospices simply could not continue to provide their invaluable services to so many people.  

Finally, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way. To our friends, family, colleagues and everyone who has donated, encouraged us or shared our story, thank you. Your generosity and kindness mean more than words can express. We are also eternally grateful to Saint Francis Hospice for the support they have given us over the years. Together, we can help ensure that many more families receive the same care, compassion and hope that we have experienced.