On August 10th 2024, Richard 'Fred' Frearson, OH 1981-91, set off on a 12 mile, fundraising walk, for the hospice that looked after his father in his final days.  It was Dove House Hospice's first 'Pub to Pub' Walk, to raise money so that they can help care for people living with a terminal illness in Hull and East Yorkshire.

For many patients and their families, getting a referral to Dove House Hospice is scary. Taking part in our Pub 2 Pub Walk and raising money for Dove House means the teams of doctors, nurses, healthcare assistants and therapists are there whenever local families need them.

Dove House Hospice

Richard wanted to raise money for Dove House after they took good care of his late father, Robin Frearson, OH 1948-56, in 2020.  As part of the walk that he has undertaken, Richard has a fundraising page, which is open until November 2024, to continue his efforts to raise money for the hospice, so that others will be able to receive that same high standard of care that his father did in his final days.

My Dad, Robin, received incredible care at Dove House during his terminal illness in 2020. It was a challenging time for everyone, but the compassionate care he received meant the world to him and our family. Nearly four years later, my memories and gratitude remain as strong as ever - a true testament to their impact.

I'll never forget the day we arrived, late on a Friday afternoon at the "cancer treatment centre". The relief I felt and the transformation in Dad as he "checked in" were incredible. He savoured the therapeutic effects of a jumbo sausage roll and beans, a simple pleasure that brought him so much joy. The entire staff, with their expert care, warm friendliness, and Hull's signature humour, made a profound difference. The beautifully maintained grounds added to Dove House's holistic approach, providing a serene environment for healing.

Dove House was there for our family when we needed it most.

No-one ever really knows whether they or a family member might require hospice care.  Hospices care for people of all ages and other life-limiting illnesses, not just cancer.  Unfortunately, UK hospices receive little state funding and the majority is raised through fund-raising activities like this walk, as well as through their charity shops.

The walk was on 10th August, with over 200 walkers stopping off at six pubs along the way, in an area familiar to many and where I grew up.

Richard Frearson, OH 1981-91

Richard has previously spoken about his father and the care that he received, for the Dove House Hospice, Light Up A life Appeal in 2021, which can be viewed here: Light Up a Life 2021 Appeal.

Richard's fundraising page is open until November 2024.  If you would like to donate to this worthwhile cause, please visit Richard's Pub to Pub Walk 2024.