Dennis' Story

Dennis has been a life long supporter ever since he has lived in and around the Weald of Kent and East Sussex. 2020 marks Hospice in the Weald’s 40th year delivering Hospice Care, the same amount of time Dennis has been supporting the charity.

Dennis’ family described him as ‘always doing things for others and never expecting anything in return and never wanting any thanks for his help or support’ a truly generous and modest gentleman.

Dennis is now receiving care on our In-Patient Ward at the Hospice in Pembury. The same building, he helped to raise money for and even sponsored some of the bricks that hold up the structure on Maidstone Road. Hospice in the Weald isn’t a building, it’s a philosophy of care, something that Dennis and his family are now being supported by at such a difficult time.

Through the countless events that Dennis has taken part in and arranged, raising thousands of pounds to support patients with a terminal illness, their families and carers. He hasn’t ever let his age slow him down. When he turned 70 he marked the occasion by fundraising, swimming 70 lengths. When he turned 80 he went even further swimming 80 lengths, over 1.4 miles and raised over £2,000. Dennis’ next goal was to take part in a skydive from 12,000 feet at the age of 90.

“I just wish I could raise more for The Hospice, I want to be productive, but I can’t from this bed..!”

Frustratingly for Dennis, the skydive might be too challenging now that he has become unwell. But, he doesn’t want to let that stop him raising money to support the Hospice. The former Goudhurst Friends Group member wants to continue helping the charity as long as he can.

“Thank you for what you’ve done for me, I’m still here. The people here, they’ve been absolutely fantastic to me and all of my family”.