Family signs up for fundraising walk in memory of Wills who had an ‘infectious love for life’

Time is counting down out to secure a place at a reduced rate for St Nicholas Hospice Care’s Sunset Walk, which returns on Saturday, June 21.

With the early bird offer expiring on April 24, now is the perfect time to sign up and be part of this meaningful evening of remembrance, music, and community spirit.

Among those taking part this year is the family of William Davis, or Wills, as he was affectionately known.

Wills, who had a rare genetic condition called Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, required round-the-clock care. He transitioned to St Nicholas Hospice Care from children’s hospice care at the age of 19 when he needed full palliative support.

After five years of dedicated care, Wills aged 24, spent the final days before his death on October 2, 2023, at the hospice, surrounded by loved ones.

Now, his family and members of his care team are walking in his memory to ensure others receive the same compassionate support.

Wills’ Mum Paula said: “Wills as he was lovingly known, had a rare genetic condition called Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, which caused tumours to grow throughout his body.

“He lived with complex epilepsy, autism, severe learning disabilities, and behaviours that challenged—but above all, he lived with an infectious love for life. With his wicked sense of comic timing and the biggest smile, he brought immense joy to those around him.

“He was always scared in hospital but the hospice gave him, his care team and our family the support to say our goodbyes and tell him how much we loved him.

“We really felt he had the best end we could give him thanks to the hospice. He was so loved by so many. We will always be grateful for the care and comfort given at the worst time of our lives. He was finally out of pain and at peace.

“We all miss him so very much and want to do this walk for Wills. For our son who we love and miss every day. Some of his care team are walking with us too. It’s a good way to mark his life whilst raising money for such a special place.”

The Sunset Walk, which is supported by main sponsor Greene King, is back and promises to be even bigger. Walkers can choose between a 10km or 15km route, both beginning and ending in Bury St Edmunds’ Abbey Gardens.

The event offers a festival-like atmosphere, with live entertainment, a fun warm-up session, and reflection points for those walking in memory of loved ones.

By signing up before April 24, participants can take advantage of discounted entry fees: £13.50 for adults, £8 for children (aged 5-17), and under-5s go free.

All walkers are encouraged to raise at least £100 to support the hospice’s vital services for those facing dying, death, and grief.

It costs £22,000 a day to run St Nicholas Hospice Care, and with only a small portion of funding coming from statutory sources, fundraising events like the Sunset Walk are essential to ensuring the charity can continue its work across West Suffolk and Thetford.

Don’t miss out – sign up today at www.stnicholashospice.org.uk/sunset-walk before April 24 to take advantage of the early bird discount.