James took on the challenge of cycling three laps of Bushy Park, supported by volunteers from local charity Companion Cycling, which helps people with additional needs enjoy the freedom and fun of cycling.

The fundraiser was inspired by James's father, Luigi, who was cared for by Princess Alice Hospice in summer 2024. James and his family say they will always be grateful for the care Luigi received, as well as the kindness, laughter and friendship shown by Hospice colleagues during his time there.

In the weeks leading up to the challenge, James became a familiar face across Kingston and Surbiton, collecting donations in aid of the Hospice and sharing his fundraising story with local residents.

Despite soaring temperatures on the day, James successfully completed the challenge and surpassed his fundraising target, raising over £1,000 for the Hospice.

His sister-in-law, Tanya, said: "Luigi will be looking down and watching. He would be very, very proud of James."

James recently returned to Princess Alice Hospice with his family to share their family's story and talk about the health challenges he has overcome throughout his life with the support of his close-knit family.

The visit was particularly special as James was reunited with Michelle, one of the Hospice colleagues who cared for Luigi. The family was delighted to thank her once again for the compassion and support she showed during such an important time in their lives.

Claire Woodward, Corporate, Community & Events lead, said:

"James is an inspiration. His determination, positivity and commitment to honouring his dad's memory touched everyone involved. We need to raise £29,000 every day to deliver our outstanding care and support to local people, so we're incredibly grateful for his support and for the generosity of everybody who donated to his fundraising challenge.’’

Website: www.pah.org.uk

Princess Alice Hospice: For Excellence. For Compassion. For People. For Living.

For more than 40 years, Princess Alice Hospice has provided free, high-quality, specialist end-of-life care to tens of thousands of people across the London Boroughs of Kingston and Richmond and large parts of Surrey. Today, Hospice nurses, doctors and other specialist staff are looking after hundreds of patients at any one time, in their homes or on the In-Patient Unit.

The Hospice's vision is that everyone in our communities should have the best possible care and support before, during and after death. With care and support that is right for them, more people can live well, die well and grieve well. 

Each year, it costs £13 million to provide our free, vital services. With just 25% NHS funding provided, the remaining 75% is raised through legacies, fundraising, selling pre-loved items in our shops, and investments. It is the amazing support of our generous supporters and dedicated volunteers that allows our work to continue.