Achi news desk-
In Fish Creek on Sunday, May 5, a community will gather not only to hike but to honor the memory of those who have touched their lives in profound ways.
Craig McFarlane is this year’s Hike for Hospice Calgary ambassador, and has been involved with Hospice Calgary for 24 years.
In 2000, his mother Pat lost her battle with cancer after a stay in hospice. She was, he recalls, “larger than life,” her contagious smile was a beacon of joy to all who knew her.
“She was always so happy, smiling… everyone knew her as the warmest person on the planet,” Craig said. “She knew when she got cancer that she didn’t want that to be the end of her. She had lists and goals of what she wanted to do,” Craig shares.
Among those goals was to see her older son graduate high school, turn 40, and experience the magic of Disneyland one last time. Even now, decades later, every visit to Disneyland is a poignant reminder of her enduring spirit.
Now, 24 years after Pat’s death, Craig, along with his family, is participating in the Hike for Hospice Calgary, honoring Pat’s legacy and finding comfort in shared experiences.
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“We have lots of fun activities planned. But we also recognize that it is a very difficult time. Coming together helps us heal,” said Kelsey Murdoch of Hospice Calgary. “There will be music, face painting, and the Calgary Stampeders will be participating as well.”
The hike serves as more than just physical activity; it is a gathering raised by shared stories. Craig will share his experience at the Hike for Hospice Calgary.
“Once people are part of this club, you know exactly what they’re going through,” Craig reflects, highlighting the importance of finding a connection in times of sadness.
For Karl Dsouza, the hike has a special significance. Initially joining to support his mother, who works in hospice care, Karl found unexpected comfort in the community after his father’s death.
“My dad passed away in 2020 and Hospice Calgary was there for me then,” said Dsouza, who is a volunteer for the 2024 event. “So now for me it’s trying to give back in that sense.”
Their stories, alongside many others, converge on this day in the Hike for Hospice Calgary. This year the goal, alongside effective conversations, is $100,000.
The walk supports three care centres; the Children’s Grief Centre, the Center for Living with Advanced Illness, and their Rosedale Hospice.
& copy 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
