Cynthia Spencer Hospice

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Tom Pope

Tom Pope

My Story

Some of you will remember my view on running as being “there is no point in running for no reason; there has to be a ball involved” and that only a very special of circumstances would change that belief. Fortunately (although sometimes during runs I’m still not convinced) the stars aligned to provide an opportunity I simply couldn’t refuse for a number of reasons.

2024 marks 10 years since my Dad lost his 3-year battle with cancer and what better excuse to take on a challenge that resembles much of the way he lived. For the majority of you who didn’t know him Dad loved sport and spending time outdoors, whether it be on a bike or a rugby field it didn’t matter so long as it wasn’t football. Similarly my happiest memories with him are all outdoors whether it be camping, on top of a mountain or at a rugby game. As with most fathers he constantly wanted the best for all of us; he was always more concerned with the effort than the result, and most importantly not doing things half hearted and seeing things through to the end.

In October 2014, when his health started to noticeably deteriorate, we were lucky enough for him to be provided with first-class care at Cynthia Spencer Hospice. While I did appreciate the people and environment, being aged 14 and in those circumstances meant I didn’t really give it the full recognition and appreciation the hospice deserved at the time.

Located in Northampton, Cynthia Spencer Hospice provided my family with a sanctuary where we could make the most out of Dads final weeks. The place always had a sense of calm, with the garden allowing us to continue spending time outside with Dad which we all needed and treasured. It was the people however that made it truly special. While as providing top quality care to Dad they also provided it to the whole family with no request being too much, whether that be me and my brother asking about Dads treatment or Dads request for blackcurrant ice chips (niche I know but would recommend). The professional and caring approach of the whole team made some of the worst weeks bearable, and at times even enjoyable, whilst also ensuring our last memories are happy ones which can be remembered fondly.

Unfortunately not all families in similar situations are able to benefit from the palliative care provided by Cynthia Spencer and as a very small token of my appreciation for all the care and comfort they provided I will be raising money for the charity by running the London Marathon in April. Any support and contribution you could provide would be greatly appreciated and I am more than happy to answer any questions about the charity.

“Dad this one’s for you x”

Tom

Cynthia Spencer Hospice

Raising for:

Cynthia Spencer Hospice
174%

Funded

  • Target
    £4,400
  • Raised so far
    £7,663
  • Number of donors
    153

My Story

Some of you will remember my view on running as being “there is no point in running for no reason; there has to be a ball involved” and that only a very special of circumstances would change that belief. Fortunately (although sometimes during runs I’m still not convinced) the stars aligned to provide an opportunity I simply couldn’t refuse for a number of reasons.

2024 marks 10 years since my Dad lost his 3-year battle with cancer and what better excuse to take on a challenge that resembles much of the way he lived. For the majority of you who didn’t know him Dad loved sport and spending time outdoors, whether it be on a bike or a rugby field it didn’t matter so long as it wasn’t football. Similarly my happiest memories with him are all outdoors whether it be camping, on top of a mountain or at a rugby game. As with most fathers he constantly wanted the best for all of us; he was always more concerned with the effort than the result, and most importantly not doing things half hearted and seeing things through to the end.

In October 2014, when his health started to noticeably deteriorate, we were lucky enough for him to be provided with first-class care at Cynthia Spencer Hospice. While I did appreciate the people and environment, being aged 14 and in those circumstances meant I didn’t really give it the full recognition and appreciation the hospice deserved at the time.

Located in Northampton, Cynthia Spencer Hospice provided my family with a sanctuary where we could make the most out of Dads final weeks. The place always had a sense of calm, with the garden allowing us to continue spending time outside with Dad which we all needed and treasured. It was the people however that made it truly special. While as providing top quality care to Dad they also provided it to the whole family with no request being too much, whether that be me and my brother asking about Dads treatment or Dads request for blackcurrant ice chips (niche I know but would recommend). The professional and caring approach of the whole team made some of the worst weeks bearable, and at times even enjoyable, whilst also ensuring our last memories are happy ones which can be remembered fondly.

Unfortunately not all families in similar situations are able to benefit from the palliative care provided by Cynthia Spencer and as a very small token of my appreciation for all the care and comfort they provided I will be raising money for the charity by running the London Marathon in April. Any support and contribution you could provide would be greatly appreciated and I am more than happy to answer any questions about the charity.

“Dad this one’s for you x”

Tom