24 Feb 2025 Community

Laura Hirst: Walking for a Cause and Fighting for The Kirkwood

A dedicated group of nurses from The Kirkwood are lacing up their boots and taking on a significant challenge to support the hospice they love. 

Among them is Laura Hirst, an inpatient unit nurse whose passion for patient care extends far beyond her daily responsibilities. On 20th June, Laura and her colleagues will tackle the gruelling 29.5km Derbyshire Three Peaks Challenge to raise vital funds for The Kirkwood, which is currently facing unprecedented financial difficulties.

The idea for the challenge was first introduced by fellow colleague Alison Heavey. "Alison told me about an idea she had, and so I chatted to her about a walking challenge in a team meeting, and it escalated from there!" Laura recalls. What started as a suggestion quickly became a serious commitment, with the team now undertaking a rigorous six-part training programme to prepare for the demanding hike.

Laura is no stranger to hiking, having attempted the Yorkshire Three Peaks before and being an avid adventurer. "I absolutely love hiking, and I’m regularly up in the Lake District or in the Peak District, stomping around up the hills all day. I’m always up for an adventure and love being outdoors, so this is the perfect opportunity to combine that into a challenge for an amazing cause!"

For Laura, The Kirkwood is more than just a place of work, it’s a family. "The Kirkwood is a family, whether you work or volunteer on the In-Patient Unit, for the community team, on reception or in the kitchen! I’ve worked in healthcare for 16 years now in a variety of settings, and I’ve never come across a team like it. No matter what is going on, there’s always someone around to make you smile!"

We provides specialist, compassionate end-of-life care, ensuring that patients and their families feel supported during their most difficult moments. "Being able to provide care for patients and their families at such a difficult and challenging time is a privilege," Laura shares. "The Kirkwood isn’t just a hospice; it’s a place of safety and peace, and we support life however we can."

The financial crisis facing The Kirkwood is the worst in its history, and without additional funding, critical services are at risk. Laura highlights the importance of community support: "I bet everyone in Kirklees knows of someone who has been involved with The Kirkwood at some point, whether that be through raising vital funds, donating to someone’s fundraiser, having a relative or friend who’s received care from us in the past, or knowing someone who volunteers for us!"

She believes that even small contributions can make a difference. "The Kirkwood needs their community now more than ever. It’s no secret that everyone has felt the pinch over the last few years, but even if people signed up to The Kirkwood Lottery or donated to us instead of buying a coffee in the morning, it would make so much difference."

As the nurses prepare for the challenge, camaraderie and mutual support play a crucial role in their journey. "We’re already a fantastic team of work colleagues, so it’ll be amazing to cheer each other and support each other in a different way this time, away from work," Laura says.

Their goal is to complete the demanding hike, pushing their physical and mental endurance. "I can’t wait! I’ve organised some group training walks leading up to the event in June, so we can all up our fitness game. There’s lots to look forward to in the lead-up! Let’s hope the weather is kind to us on the day and there’s a pub at the end!"

Laura and her colleagues are setting an inspiring example of dedication and resilience, but they also encourage the wider community to step up and support The Kirkwood in any way they can. "As nurses, we already go above and beyond for our patients on a daily basis. But this challenge is to show that if we can do that little bit extra to help when it’s really needed, then so can others!"

The Kirkwood nurses are calling on the public to help them reach their fundraising goal. Donations can be made via their JustGiving page HERE, and those inspired by their efforts are encouraged to take on their own challenges in support of The Kirkwood. Whether it’s a walk, a fundraising event, or a personal goal, every contribution helps ensure that The Kirkwood can continue to provide its much-needed care. Sign up to do your own challenge HERE! 

Laura, who grew up around the corner from The Kirkwood, understands the deep connection it has with the community. "When caring for patients at the end of life, you’ve got one chance to get it right, and The Kirkwood really embodies that!"

With determination, teamwork, and a strong sense of purpose, Laura and her fellow nurses are proving that their dedication to The Kirkwood goes beyond their daily roles. Their journey is one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.