18 Jul 2025 Patient and Family Stories

Siblings Take on 170 Mile Cycling Challenge in Memory of their Dad and to Support The Kirkwood

When Philip Holdsworth, known to family and friends as Phil, was admitted to The Kirkwood in April 2024, he was entering the final chapter of a long and courageous battle with oesophageal cancer. The compassionate care he and his family received during those final weeks left a lasting impression, so much so that his four children are now taking on a remarkable cycling challenge in his memory.

Phil’s journey began in 2021 with a diagnosis that, at first, seemed like a common case of acid reflux. “He thought it was just indigestion,” his daughter Leonie recalled. “But his discomfort led to tests that revealed an aggressive tumour in his oesophagus.” After major surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Phil was able to enjoy a period of remission that included travel, hiking, and cycling one of his great passions. Tragically, the cancer returned, and in early 2024, the family were told he only had months left.

Despite his strength and determination, Phil’s condition rapidly deteriorated. “He couldn’t eat or drink and had difficulty breathing,” said his son Glenn. “Hospitals had become too much for him, and it was clear he needed more specialised support. That’s when he was admitted to The Kirkwood.”

The move was a turning point. “From the moment Dad entered the hospice, the care, dignity, and support he received, and that we as a family received was extraordinary,” said Leonie. “The facilities were far beyond anything a hospital could offer.”

Phil’s son Ciaran described The Kirkwood as “a godsend.” Although Phil had lost his voice by the time he arrived, he remained present and dignified, choosing to walk into the hospice unaided. “They managed his symptoms so that he could find peace,” he said. “It gave him space where nothing was expected of him. He told us he had one last thing to do: to show his children that dying wasn’t something to be afraid of.”

Each family member speaks of the hospice not just with gratitude, but with reverence. “The standard of care was second to none,” said Glenn. “It was like a breath of fresh air. My dad was shown such compassion, and we were kept informed every step of the way.”

Siobhan, another of Phil’s children, described The Kirkwood as “an amazing place.” She said, “Dad was able to enjoy the sunshine in the grounds. It felt like he really was able to enjoy these last moments with the people who cared for him. So we said with Dad that we would do a bike ride as the four siblings to raise money for the hospice.”

That bike ride became the ‘Way of the Roses’ Challenge, a coast-to-coast cycle from Morecambe to Bridlington, covering 170 miles over four days. The ride pays tribute not only to Phil’s love of cycling but also to the profound experience the family shared at The Kirkwood.

Ciaran, who admits he’s “no cyclist,” says the training has been intense. “My legs don’t seem to recover between rides, and I’ve got chafing rashes. But I’m really enjoying the challenge. I’m learning new skills and discovering so much about my local area. What makes it even more special is doing this with my siblings.”

For Leonie, the training has also been emotionally challenging. “My dad was my riding partner, and since he passed, I’ve had to overcome a loss of confidence. But it felt like a way to stay close to him.”

Phil’s son Glenn said it best: “The Kirkwood ensured that my dad's final days, though incredibly sad, are also remembered with love and warmth. We have the comfort of knowing he truly couldn't have been in a better place.”

The family have already raised an impressive sum but are hoping to smash their target of £3,500. “I can’t even begin to imagine how much Dad’s care must have cost,” said Ciaran. “I only wish we could repay in full what was given to us and more.”

The siblings' efforts are not just about gratitude, they're about ensuring others can access the same level of care. “The Kirkwood made the hardest moment of our lives more bearable,” said Siobhan. “It’s something worth fighting for.”

If you’d like to support their cycling challenge and help The Kirkwood continue providing this invaluable care, you can donate and follow their journey by signing up HERE.

Or, if Phil’s story has inspired you to take on your own fundraising challenge for The Kirkwood, click HERE to get started.