A WOMAN is putting her best foot forward as a big ‘thank you’ to the Hospice of the Good Shepherd for helping to fulfil her dad’s last wish.
Vikki Johnson, 35, who works at MBNA in Chester, is taking part in the hospice’s Starlight Walk in memory of her father Kevin.
Mr Johnson, 57, who lived in Great Sutton, spent three months in the hospice before he passed away in May surrounded by his loving family.
The former Ellesmere Port dock, who spent seven years working in Dubai, was a passionate walker.
Vikki, who will be joined by her mum Norma, 58, and cousin Lauren, 18, as well as friends, decided the six-mile walk was the most fitting tribute and the best way of thanking the hospice for their support.
She praised the care her father received describing the hospice as ‘the next best thing to being at home’.
“The thought of dad just being diagnosed with cancer and coming into the hospice was a very scary one for us all”, Vikki explained.
“When we arrived it was completely different to what we all expected. To us the hospice was just like a big house with extended family members.
“We always imagined the hospice to be a sad place and although the families and patients are in there for the same reason it is such a happy and calming place.
“My dad asked that when the time was near that he would not be on his own, and the hospice made it possible for us to keep this promise to my dad and this we will always truly be grateful for.
“The nurses there have such a special way about them, they are no ordinary people.
“We have cried and laughed on many occasions.
“It is so important that people are made aware of exactly what the hospice do so that many other people have the dignity, love and family surrounding them when they need it most - just like my dad did.”
The trio are taking part in the Starlight Walk at Chester Racecourse on Saturday, September 4. It starts at midnight.
For more information, visit www.starlightwalk. eventbrite.com
