First ever male Walker joins Team Starlight

Friday, 08 June 2012

A multi-generational team from Bushey have been granted special permission to register the first ever male Walker for the Peace Hospice’s Starlight Walk on Saturday 23 June.

Jill Chisholm, who sadly lost her husband Jack to cancer on 1 May, will be taking part in the Walk alongside their daughters Wendy and Karen and grandchildren, Sasha, Sarah and Robbie.  76 year old Jill uses a wheelchair to get around and the family were delighted to learn that the Starlight Walk offers a wheelchair-friendly, 6 mile route.

Granddaughter Sasha said: ‘We wanted to do something as a family, in memory of Granddad.  The wheelchair accessible route means Grandma can take part and now my brother Robbie can share in pushing her along the way.’

Daughter Wendy added: ‘When Dad became very ill, the Hospice at Home staff were the only people to contact us and offer their advice and support.  It was like having a weight lifted from our shoulders and a helping hand at such a difficult time.  We are determined to raise money for the Hospice.’

Jack Chisholm was a charismatic man who loved life and his family and friends.  He and Jill had been married for 54 years and she describes how he had the ability to ‘make a friend wherever he went’.  Also, that the nurses who cared for him back at UCLH in 2009 still came to visit him and attended his funeral.

The family had hoped to hold a Jubilee celebration in Jack and Jill’s honour but now the party is likely to be a mixture of tears and laughter.  Daughter Karen explained: ‘Dad would have wanted the party to go ahead though.  He asked us to look after his ‘Duchess’ and that is exactly what we will do.’

So how does our lone male Walker feel about joining over 1000 women on the Starlight Walk?  Slightly overwhelmed perhaps, but committed all the same.  Robbie said: ‘I just want to do it for Granddad, that’s all.’

Bushey Meads pupil Robbie, will be turning fifteen on the day of the Walk so we wish him a very happy birthday from the Peace Hospice.  We also hope you get the new trainers you were after Robbie!

You can help the Chisholm family raise money by clicking here
 
Visit www.starlightwalk.org.uk to read about the inspirational individuals and teams who have already registered for the Walk. Click here to guarantee your place.