A group of family and friends will take part in an evening memory walk this autumn to honour Joanna Tucker, a much-loved local woman who died from ovarian cancer, and raise funds for the hospice that supported her.
Walk Details and Purpose
Emma Card will lead the group, named Joanna's Angels, on the Starlight Hike through the Mapledurham Estate in Reading on Saturday, October 24. The event will raise vital funds for Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, which provided palliative care to Joanna Tucker, a veterinary worker.
Joanna Tucker died in March after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer during her second pregnancy. She received support from the hospice for pain management and spent her final weeks at the facility. Staff organised special experiences for her family, including a tea party and a visiting petting zoo.
Family Memories and Community Spirit
Emma Card, lead walker for Joanna's Angels, said: “Joanna was able to come home shortly before Christmas 2025. I helped her husband, Dan, prepare the house with decorations so she could enjoy Christmas at home. On Boxing Day, Joanna and her family came to our house - the memory of that day is something I will always cherish.”
She added: “Joanna was a really community-focused person. She helped at Girl Guides and loved raising money for animal charities. I think she’d really like that we are taking part in Starlight Hike for Sue Ryder.”
Card continued: “I have set a target of £200, but I hope as a group we can smash it. I know Joanna would be proud, and I’m looking forward to honouring my strong, determined and kind-hearted friend.”
Event Features and Registration
Participants will walk through illuminated grounds while enjoying live music, refreshments, and a special dedication area. The evening event opens with entertainment before walkers set off along the route. Registration includes an event t-shirt and a finisher medal for everyone taking part.
Date: Saturday, October 24. Location: Mapledurham Estate, Reading. Cost: Standard tickets start from £23.80 per adult. To register for the walk, visit sueryder.org/StarlightThamesValley. To donate to the group, visit joanna-tucker.muchloved.com/Fundraising/Events/.
