Walking Through Fire for a Worthy Cause: Community firewalk Raises Over £20,000 for Michael Sobell and Harlington Hospices

On Friday, 21st March 2025, the community of Hillingdon came together in a dazzling display of courage and compassion at Mount Vernon Hospital for a fire walk in support of Michael Sobell Hospice and Harlington Hospice. The event, which drew hundreds of enthusiastic supporters, saw dozens of participants bravely stepping across burning embers to raise funds for the vital care these hospices provide.

Dozens gathered to brave the flames for Michael Sobel House

Among the fire walkers was Elaine Laycock, a 92-year-old former doctor and patron of the event. Her motivation was deeply personal. “I have seen firsthand the wonderful care Michael Sobell Hospice provides, and that’s why I walked on fire tonight,” Laycock shared. “Every penny raised will help patients and their families.”

The fire walk, an age-old symbol of resilience and determination, proved to be a transformative experience for many participants. Sarah, a first-time fire walker, admitted, “I was terrified at first, but knowing I was helping such an important cause gave me the courage to do it!”

92 Year old Elaine was the first to cross the coals, and raised over £6000.00

The community's spirit was undeniable, with cheers and applause filling the air as each walker completed their journey across the embers. Mark, another participant, called it “an unforgettable experience” and added, “I’d do it again in a heartbeat!”

Journalists from The Hillingdon Herald were also part of the action. Jigyasa Singh, reflecting on her experience, shared, “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I was thrilled to be a part of it with my colleague James. The energy was amazing. Michael Sobell Hospice is doing incredible work, and I feel fortunate that I got a chance to do the fire walk and contribute to the cause.”

Supporting Compassionate Care

The funds raised from the fire walk — exceeding £20,000 — will directly benefit the work of Michael Sobell Hospice and Harlington Hospice.

Michael Sobell Hospice, located at Mount Vernon Hospital, offers specialist palliative care for patients with life-limiting illnesses. Their dedicated team provides services including pain management, bereavement support, and holistic therapies, ensuring patients receive care with dignity and comfort.

Harlington Hospice extends compassionate end-of-life care within the community, offering home visits and support services across Hillingdon. Working closely together, both hospices ensure that patients and their families receive the best possible care during challenging times.

The event’s organisers expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support: “We are incredibly grateful for the support we received tonight. The community spirit was overwhelming, and the funds raised will make a huge difference.”

A Community United

The evening concluded with a celebration where participants shared their experiences and captured memorable moments. Many walkers echoed the sentiment that the experience was not only exhilarating but deeply meaningful.

One participant remarked, “I never imagined I would walk on fire, but doing it for such an important cause made it all worth it!”

For those inspired to contribute, donations and volunteer opportunities remain available. Visit the hospice website to learn more about how you can support the ongoing work of Michael Sobell Hospice and Harlington Hospice.

This extraordinary evening showcased the power of community support, proving that when people come together for a cause, they can walk through fire — literally — to make a difference.

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