6 Mar 2025 Community

Jazmin’s Journey Walking for The Kirkwood in Memory of Her Uncle

For 19 year old Jazmin Summers, this year’s Starlight Walk holds deep personal significance. Formerly known as the Midnight Memory Walk and The Kirkwood Memory Walk, the event has been a key part of her life for years. But this year, it carries even greater meaning.

Jazmin has chosen to take on the 10 mile route in memory of her uncle, Ian Summers, who sadly passed away in 2024 on The Kirkwood’s In-Patient Unit.

Reflecting on her motivation, Jazmin shared: “The reason and my connection to the charity is that last year, my uncle, Ian Summers, died on The Kirkwood's In-Patient Unit. The staff did all they could for my uncle and our family, whether it was emotional support or physical support. We created amazing bonds with the nurses, and they were incredible with my uncle, helping and supporting him down to his last moments.”

Jazmin’s experience with The Kirkwood has left a lasting impact, reinforcing just how vital its services are to families facing the most difficult of times.

She said: “The Kirkwood is incredibly important to our community and my family. It provides essential care and support to individuals with life-limiting illnesses and their families. The hospice not only offers medical care but also emotional and psychological support, helping families such as mine navigate the challenges they face.”

Jazmin’s journey with The Kirkwood began long before her uncle’s passing. She has been taking part in the walk since she was 12, back when it was known as the Midnight Memory Walk.

She commented: “At the time, I had a close family friend who was a nurse with The Kirkwood, and I did the memory walk in honour of my dad, who had passed away, as well as other family members. Even though my dad’s passing wasn’t linked to The Kirkwood, I wanted to raise money for them because of the incredible work they do.”

Her fundraising efforts began even earlier, demonstrating her deep-rooted passion for the cause.

“I remember being around 10 years old, making bracelets, putting them in local pubs, and selling them so the funds could go to The Kirkwood. It’s always been, and always will be, something close to my heart.”

For Jazmin, The Kirkwood Starlight Walk is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a community experience filled with shared memories, support, and a collective commitment to making a difference.

She said: “The walk is an amazing experience. Not only are you doing it for charity and your loved ones, but you also get to meet amazing people along the way and share your experiences. The events before the walk create an incredible atmosphere that excites and motivates people to take part. It brings families, friends, and even strangers together.”

Having participated in the event every year from the age of 12 to 19, Jazmin is determined to keep this tradition alive for years to come.

“It makes me happy to know I’m supporting such an incredible cause, raising money and walking for not just my loved ones that have passed away, but for everyone’s.”

This year, she will be walking alongside eight family members and friends, with the goal of doubling the amount she raised last year.

While Jazmin is excited for this year’s event, she acknowledges the difficulties The Kirkwood is facing due to funding cuts: “My thoughts on the services and staff cuts at The Kirkwood are that it’s definitely a tough situation, as cuts can really impact the level of care and support they provide to patients and families. However, one thing I can say is that the staff there are so dedicated to their job and work tirelessly to provide compassion and care to their patients. It’s very disheartening to hear about the cuts that are going on.”

Despite these challenges, Jazmin remains committed to supporting The Kirkwood, ensuring they can continue their vital work.

With the Starlight Walk fast approaching, Jazmin is encouraging others to take part and experience the sense of unity and purpose that comes with it.

She added: “I’m really looking forward to this year's walk and taking part in this great cause. I hope more people join in, as every step we take helps The Kirkwood continue to provide their incredible care.”

For Jazmin, this walk is about more than just raising funds, it’s a way to honour her uncle, her dad, and countless others who have been supported by The Kirkwood. It’s a journey of remembrance, gratitude, and hope.

To support Jazmin and The Kirkwood, sign up for The Kirkwood Starlight Walk today and be part of something truly special.