Nurse Nicky Reid Runs St Clare Hospice 10K to Support Vital Care Services
St Clare Hospice nurse Nicky Reid was one of the 600 participants who lined up at the starting line for the hospice's annual 10K race today, April 12. As a clinical nurse specialist, Nicky's decision to run was driven by a deep commitment to her workplace, which is currently facing significant financial challenges.
"I've participated in this event before, but with hospices under so much financial pressure right now, I really wanted to do something practical for the service I am part of," Nicky explained. "When you care deeply about where you work, you naturally ask yourself, 'What can I do to help?' I'm an avid runner anyway, so taking on the 10K felt like the perfect way to combine something I love with raising money for such an important cause."
Running as a Wellness Practice
For Nicky, running is not just a hobby but a crucial component of her personal wellbeing. "It helps me completely lose myself. It's like stepping into another world, especially if I'm somewhere scenic like along the River Stort. It lets me forget my worries and clear my head after a difficult day at work," she shared.
She often runs with her one-year-old Boxer dog, Ziggy, making it a daily routine. "I run about two miles most days when I'm not working, and honestly, it's often easier to run Ziggy than walk him! He loves it - and while he's trained not to pull on the flat, he definitely gives me a little boost uphill."
Day-to-Day Role at St Clare Hospice
In her professional capacity, Nicky serves as a clinical nurse specialist at St Clare Hospice, providing essential support to patients and their families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. "Often, I'm visiting people when they're feeling frightened, uncertain, or quite lost – especially if they've just been discharged from oncology services and don't know what happens next," she said.
"What I love is being able to reassure them that hospice care is about support, symptom management, and helping them live as well as possible. You can often see someone's whole outlook shift during that first visit. That's incredibly rewarding."
Fundraising for a Critical Cause
The funds raised from events like the 10K race are vital for St Clare Hospice, which provides specialist care to improve the lives of individuals affected by life-limiting illnesses in West Essex and the borders of East Hertfordshire. Every pound contributed helps sustain these essential services, ensuring that patients receive the compassionate care they need during challenging times.
By participating in the race, Nicky aims to make every step count, highlighting the community's role in supporting local healthcare initiatives. Her efforts underscore the importance of grassroots fundraising in maintaining the hospice's operations amid financial strains.
