Published on: 12.12.23

Southampton man walks over 400 miles in 40 days for Winchester Hospice

In just 40 days, James Dowling has completed a challenge to walk 1 million steps to raise money for Winchester Hospice – covering over 400 miles.

Stepping into his challenge on 5 October and finishing on 13 November, James walked a grand total of 409 miles whilst exceeding his target of raising £500 for the Winchester Hospice Fundraising Charity.

James works at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester and clocked up the miles by walking in and around local areas of Eastleigh, Southampton, Shawford and Winchester.

The 32-year-old has worked for Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for over eight years and chose to raise funds for Winchester Hospice after its staff members showed him colleague-to-colleague care and compassion whilst he battled his own health worries.

As part of his challenge, James took part in Winchester Hospice’s Winchester Purple Night Walk - a 6km night walk through the city with nearly 300 other hospice supporters. As a keen Saints fan, James could also be seen walking to and from the Saint Mary’s Stadium on match days to increase his step count further.

Finishing his 1 million steps at Winchester Hospice itself, James was surprised with a performance from the Winchester Ukulele Jam who performed ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ to celebrate.

James Dowling says: “The hospice team are just incredible and I wanted to do something to say thank you not only for the compassion they showed me whilst at work, but also for everything they do for so many patients and their families.

“Winchester Hospice is such a special place that really does need continued support – I’ve already started thinking about my next fundraising challenge!”

Since opening back in September 2021, Winchester Hospice has cared for nearly 700 inpatients and over 300 individuals in their own homes needing palliative or end of life care. Every year, Winchester Hospice Fundraising Charity must raise over £500,000 to support the service to continue and grow.

To support James’ fundraiser, visit the link here.