Walking the December Daily Dash to give back to Sue Ryder

17 Dec 2021

Ceri is taking part in the December Daily Dash this year to raise much needed funds for Sue Ryder to continue providing expert care for people when it matters. She previously worked as an Events Fundraiser for Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, so has first-hand experience of how important fundraising is for the charity.

A personal connection

Ceri, 31, from Cirencester, Gloucestershire says that the most special thing about working at Sue Ryder in her former role was “being able to make a difference”, and despite no longer working in the sector, still feels a strong connection to the charity.

Asked why she decided to take part in the December Daily Dash, Ceri says, “Leckhampton Court Hospice looked after my Dad for three months before he died, and they made sure he was free of pain. It was a really peaceful place to be, he loved being there and the staff were incredible."

“Sue Ryder also provided me with grief counselling for over a year afterwards. I can never really repay that, but I always like to raise money for them when I can.”

Taking on the challenge

Ceri previously took part in the Starlight Hike to raise funds, but hasn’t done “anything as long and intensive each day before.” She thinks that the biggest challenge will be “walking in the cold and dark!”

Asked if she would encourage others to get involved in future Dashes, she says: “Do it! You will really make a difference to people and families who need Sue Ryder’s services.”

History of the December Daily Dash

The December Daily Dash was founded in 2015 by Jackie and Mark Smith after Jackie's dad died of cancer, just 18 months after losing her Mum to the same illness.

Inspired by the end-of-life care he received from Sue Ryder, they decided to set themselves a challenge to run 5k every day in December.

Initially joined by 11 friends (and Chester the dog!), the December Daily Dash grew in popularity over the following years to raise more than £430,000 for Sue Ryder's palliative and bereavement support. Since that first year, over 2,000 people have taken up the challenge alongside them.