THUNDER BAY -- Nobody thinks about hospice or palliative care until they or somebody they love is in the final stages of their life.
That’s why, according to the organizers of the Hike for Hospice, it’s important to support those groups that are designed to make those final stages of life as comfortable as possible.
The third annual Hike for Hospice, which was held in the city on Sunday morning at Boulevard Lake, is trying to make the end of life process easier.
The walk, which is held nationally, serves the purpose of raising money and awareness for the role played by hospice and palliative care
“It’s all about community sharing and caring,” said Paul Morralee, local Hike for Hospice chair.
“Everybody dies. Hike for Hospice gives us a moment to reflect on that process that people go through so this is an opportunity to not only raise funds but raise awareness for people dying and passing on.”
Those walking and hiking were given a flower to drop in the Current River at the Black Bay Bridge on Arundel Street. They symbolic gesture carries special significance for those reflecting on the memory of a loved one.
“It’s an opportunity for people to share they’ve lost a loved one and get back to the environment,” Morralee said.
“One of the things we’re learning is when people pass on there are messages all around us that bring us back to that loved one we lost many years ago.”
Many of the participants used the walk to remember loved ones who had needed hospice care before passing away.
Lisa Kay walked with a group of co-workers and says it was encouraging to see a large of people coming out to support the cause.
“I think everyone in this hike has somebody they lost and think how good hospice is for those people who need the support when they’re in their last days,” Kay said.
“I’m walking for my Papa.”
The event raised about $1.5 million nationally last year.
