Published on: 10.01.24
Winchester Hospice staff search for team mates to take part in Sahara trek challenge
You could join Winchester Hospice nursing staff in trekking the Moroccan Sahara Desert this year as a new fundraising challenge has launched for its charity.
Charlie Manley, Allison Warren and Donna Coombs, who all work at the hospice, are taking on the 50km challenge as part of team Winchester Hospice to raise funds and experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The challenge, which only has 30 spaces available, will take place over six days from 6 November – 11 November 2024 and will involve trekking across Moroccan sand dunes, sun-baked plains and ancient dried up river beds.
From exploring the desert’s vast and diverse landscape to being immersed in the Berber way of life, those who sign up will experience culture, local cuisine and desert camping as they make their way through the Sahara Desert.
The team are currently looking for members of the public to join them in taking on the challenge in support of the hospice, which provides palliative and end of life care to those with life-limiting illness in and around Winchester.
Allison Warren, ward manager at Winchester Hospice, says: “This really is going to be a life-changing experience and I’m so excited to be a part of it!
“I’ve never done a challenge like this in my life but I’m totally up for the adventure and experiencing a different culture! I can’t think of a better reason to take on this challenge than for the wonderful hospice I have the privilege of working in.”
Donna Coombs, clinical matron at Winchester Hospice, works as part of its specialist team and sees first hand every day the impact of having adult hospice care in the heart of the city.
Donna adds: “One of the fantastic things about this is that we’re all in it together. Having a team of people who are all there to support our hospice will just be magical and I can’t wait to get to know every single one of them.
“This trip will be absolutely unforgettable and I hope by doing this, we can raise thousands of pounds for our hospice charity.”
The challenge, which is sponsored by Quilter Cheviot, costs £375 alongside a fundraising ask which includes flights, meals, accommodation and more.
The hospice charity, alongside tour operators Different Travel UK, are hosting an information evening at Winchester’s Chesil House on Monday 22 January to share more and answer questions from those interested in signing up.
To find out more or register for the information evening, visit the link here.