13 Nov 2026 Community

Auxiliary Nurse Abbie Steps Up for The Kirkwood’s 40th Anniversary Great Wall of China Trek

Having spent almost five years caring for patients with The Kirkwood, Auxiliary Nurse Abbie knows better than most just how important hospice care is. Now, she's swapping her usual role on the In-Patient Unit for a very different challenge, taking on a 36km trek across the Great Wall of China to raise vital funds for the charity she is proud to work for.

As The Kirkwood prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2027, Abbie is determined to do her bit to help secure the charity's future, raising awareness and as much money as possible along the way.

For Abbie, the motivation behind taking part comes from the people she cares for every day and the difference The Kirkwood makes to patients and their families.

Speaking about why she signed up, Abbie said, "I've had the privilege of working with The Kirkwood for almost five years as an Auxiliary Nurse on the In-Patient Unit. During this time, I've seen first-hand the impact hospice care has on patients with life-limiting illnesses. The care, comfort and support we provide day in and day out are so incredibly important and are what every palliative patient deserves.

"I'm taking on this huge challenge to spread awareness and raise as much money as I possibly can for such a special place.

"This is completely out of my comfort zone, and I've never trekked before, but I'm strong-minded and determined to do it. It will be just a fraction of what we see our patients go through, and that's what will keep me going."

Looking ahead to The Kirkwood's 40th anniversary, Abbie is proud to be part of an organisation that has supported local people and families for four decades.

"The fact that The Kirkwood will be celebrating 40 years in 2027 is incredible! The work they've done in all those years is amazing, and I hope they'll continue to be there for many, many more years. That's why I want to take on this trek and fundraise as much as I can.

"Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a difference and help The Kirkwood continue providing the incredible care that so many families rely on."

Abbie will join 39 other supporters on The Kirkwood's Great Wall of China 40th Anniversary Trek in October 2027, taking on 36km across one of the world's most iconic landmarks.

The challenge is a chance to push personal boundaries, create unforgettable memories and, most importantly, raise vital funds to help The Kirkwood continue caring for local people and their families when they need it most.

We’re looking for 40 amazing trekkers to join us on an unforgettable journey across one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, The Great Wall of China.

This is more than a trek. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, make memories that last a lifetime, and raise vital funds to help The Kirkwood continue caring for local people and families when they need it most.

Only 40 places available… will you be one of them?

Sign up now: https://bit.ly/GreatWallofChina27