A KIND-HEARTED Worcester duo pulled on their walking boots and tackled more than 25 miles in a day to raise cash for St Richard’s Hospice.
Rhys Ware and Liam Rothwell walked the Worcester to Birmingham canal route in memory of Rhys’ stepfather, Kevin Bainbridge – the first time the duo have undertaken such a challenge.
In preparation for the walk, Rhys trained in the gym four times a week as well as walking one and a half miles a day. Liam, who now lives in the Lake District, hiked regularly near his home in Grasmere.
Rhys, who is 27, moved from Cardiff to Worcester when he was 12 years old, shortly after his mum met Kevin.
“Kevin, who came to very much be my dad, moved us from an extremely difficult position in Wales where we had few prospects, to a much better life in Worcester. He improved all of our lives ten fold and completely changed me from a shy and scared child to a confident young man,” he said.
“A mixture of Delboy and Blackadder, he was witty, sarcastic and stubborn; I owe a huge amount to him.”
In mid 2016, Kevin was diagnosed with lung cancer, he died at St Richard’s just before New Year of the same year, aged 54-years-old.
“The hospice took such care of my dad in his final days, providing a service that I can’t articulate. I struggle to find the words to describe my feelings towards the hospice, the kindness, effort and continued support we received – even after dad died – were simply amazing. I have an almost heart-breaking love for what they have done for us and what they do for others.”
Liam, who was born in Worcester, said : “Rhys and I are huge lovers of the outdoors and in particular Worcestershire. The walk was certainly difficult but being surrounded by such beautiful scenery spurred us on; it was an interesting balance between struggle and appreciation!”
During his last days at the hospice, staff organised for Rhys’ mum Julie and husband Kevin to have a blessing.
“The blessing was held in the hospice grounds and it was beautiful, one of the best days of my life, my mum’s life and undoubtedly my dad’s,” Rhys added.
St Richard’s fund-raiser Jodi Brandwood, said: “It is stories like this which are so inspirational. We’d like to thank Rhys and Liam for taking the time to raise funds for our care; they have done fantastically well!”
Visit www.justgiving.com/Delanceythrone for more.
