Runners, families and supporters will come together on Saturday, April 18 for the Nightingale House Hospice 5k and 10k, raising vital funds to help keep hospice care and services running for people across Wrexham, Flintshire and East Denbighshire, reaching as far as Barmouth and the border towns of Oswestry, Whitchurch, Ellesmere and Wem.
Among those taking part is Ellie Frederiksen, who is running memory of her sister Emma, who was cared for at Nightingale House Hospice in 2024. Ellie has already raised more than £400, inspired by the care, compassion and ongoing support her family received.
Ellie said:
“The care Emma received in her last week was invaluable, but it was actually the time in the months before that made the biggest difference. The hospice became a place where she felt safe, supported and not scared. Knowing that support was there for our whole family, even after Emma died, has meant everything. Hospices are not just a place for the end of life, and I want more people to know that.”
Also taking part is Kellie Hughes, who has raised over £2,000, far surpassing her original £300 target, in memory of her dad, Brian, who was cared for at Nightingale House. Kellie describes her dad as kind, caring and best known for his brilliant sense of humour, something the family continues to celebrate.
Kellie said choosing Nightingale House for her dad was difficult but deeply comforting. She spoke of the calm, welcoming environment, the beautiful surroundings and, most importantly, the staff who provided compassion, dignity and kindness during an incredibly challenging time.
Kellie said:
“Nightingale House was perfect for us. From the rooms and the gardens to the food and the staff, everything was focused on kindness and care. Whatever my dad wanted, even the smallest things, it was available and that makes all the difference when you are not at home. Any money raised helps give someone else the chance to have the experience we were so fortunate to have during the hardest time of our lives.”
In tribute to her dad’s humour, Kellie and her family will be wearing specially printed t‑shirts on race day featuring his name and one of his much‑loved one‑liners, a reminder of the laughter that remained even in difficult moments.
Ellie and Kellie’s fundraising, alongside sponsorship raised by hundreds of other participants and families taking part, including the Kids Dash on the day, will make a significant difference for patients and families accessing Nightingale House services for life‑limiting and progressive conditions.
Elise Jackson, Events and Campaigns Manager at Nightingale House Hospice, said:
“Stories like Ellie’s and Kellie’s show exactly why this event matters. Every pound raised helps us continue supporting patients and families with care, compassion and dignity when they need it most. We are incredibly grateful to everyone taking part.”
The Nightingale House Hospice 5k and 10k takes place on Saturday, April 18, with runners of all abilities taking part, including a kid’s dash, in support of local hospice care. To sign up visit – nightingalehouse.co.uk
