Moonlight walk was to say thank you: Toby and Natalie's story

Natalie’s partner and Toby’s dad, Mark, was witty, funny and a doting father. Here, they talk about the difference the support of the Hospice made at the end of Mark’s life, and why they took on Moonlight Walk in his memory.

“Dad was very passionate about Crystal Palace, we went to every home game. He was always very competitive, he always had to win when he played with me and my brother,” Toby said. Natalie added: “Mark was lovely. He was a large guy, full of life. He was very loud, he had a big presence and always had a grin on his face. He absolutely doted on his boys.”

Mark’s hospice care

Following Mark’s diagnosis of Stage 4 Glioblastoma in August 2023, he stayed in hospital before being discharged to be cared for at home. “Within a week of him being discharged, the Hospice visited us to share how the Hospice could help. We didn’t think we’d need the Hospice for many months, but unfortunately, within a week I had to call them. They were very good, they came the next day and admitted him,” said Natalie.

“The Hospice were amazing. It was like a weight off my shoulders. They could be the carers and we could just be the family.”

Moonlight Walk

Natalie and Toby took part in Moonlight Walk 2025 in memory of Mark. While Toby couldn’t run at Hospice Run due to a leg injury, the Sevenoaks walk proved a good fit – for many reasons… “It was a gesture to say thank you and to remember Mark as well,” shared Natalie.

“I wore a sparkly tutu to join in but Toby didn’t want to wear one! It was so colourful and sparkly. It was a really good atmosphere.”