A 41-year-old woman from Ringwood is taking part in the Run Bournemouth half-marathon on Sunday 9th October in tribute to her brother and to raise money for Forest Holme Hospice in Poole where he spent the last few weeks of his life. 

Sarah Dallyn, whose younger brother Tom died aged 33 from cancer at Forest Holme in Poole in November 2021, said, “Forest Holme Hospice is a place you never expect to find your loved ones in, particularly your sibling. But after Tom’s courageous battle with cancer, Forest Holme was the place he went to for his end-of-life care.”

The Run Bournemouth event will be Sarah’s fourth half-marathon but she feels particularly passionate about raising money for the hospice charity to not only provide more funds, but also as a small way of thanking them for the impact they have had, and continue to have on her family.

Sarah, continues, “Tom, and his wife Jodie, were taken in and became members of the Forest Holme family and were looked after, fed, and supported through every day. Our Mum, our Dad, our sister Becky and I were also cared for and supported, through the most difficult time. 

The staff at Forest Holme do this job every single day; they become part of your lives. They look after your loved one at their most vulnerable time, and your most vulnerable time and care passionately for your loved one, ensuring they are as comfortable as they can possibly be, whilst also maintaining their independence, identity and dignity. For us as a family, at a time in your life which is the most frightening and traumatic, this special place somehow makes you feel you are not completely drowning.” 

Forest Holme Hospice in Poole provides palliative and end-of-life care and support to more than 1,500 people each year with advanced cancer and other life-limiting. However, due to an increase in patient referrals of over 40% year on year, the Charity now needs to raise at least £1,000,000 annually to ensure these services help to meet the ever-growing need within the local community.

Sarah also is keen to express her gratitude for the after-care Forest Holme provide, adding, “Their care and dedication continues long after your loved one has passed. Bereavement support for all family members is offered, as grief impacts your family in so many different ways. Counselling, workshops, phone call support, remembrance events - this support is vital when life continues without your loved one.”