Lisa and Devon put paws forward for first furry fundraiser

DOG lover Lisa Fitzjohn is so determined to support St Catherine’s Hospice she’s boriteming her neighbour’s pet pooch to take part in the charity’s first ever fundraiser welcoming our four-legged friends.

Lisa does have her own boxer dog Winston, but has decided to enter Devon – the golden retriever from next door – into the 5mileBark in the Park walk because she is far more placid!
She wanted to help raise money for the hospice at Lostock Hall as a thank you for the care and support her mum Terry Thompson is receiving at the Day Therapy Unit during her battle with cancer.
The 73-year-old from Ingol underwent chemotherapy for breast cancer last year, but has now been told it has spread to other parts of her body.
She enjoys visiting the hospice every week for specialist medical and nursing care along withcomplementary therapies like reflexology and massage, and also takes part in a host of activities from cake decorating to arts and crafts.
Terry said: “I love coming along to St Catherine’s – I’ve made lots of friends there, we have a laugh and a whinge together and it takes your mind of things.
“I’ve done all sorts there – the reflexology and massage make me feel so relaxed and the girls there are lovely. I always come away feeling better.”
Lisa’s brother-in-law, John Kelly – married to her sister Gail – was also cared for at St Catherine’s before his death from cancer last September at the age of just 52.
Lisa, 36, who is her mum’s carer, said: “St Catherine’s is a place that has touched a lot of people that I know.
“It’s not until you go there that you realise what amazing work they do. When I first mentioned it to my mum she was adamant she didn’t want to go, but I thought it would be good for her and asked her to try it, just once, for me. Now she loves it and goes every week!
“I heard about the Bark in the Park on Facebook and it seemed like a great idea. So I thought I’d have a bash at it and help raise some money for a good cause.”
The sponsored event takes place on Saturday September 15 at Cuerden Valley Park from 10am until 2pm. Each dog taking part will receive a doggy bag, medal and certificate.
Entry is £3 in advance and £5 on the day, book your place online here
The event, which is sponsored by Pets At Home, will also feature a dog show with categories including waggiest tail, prettiest, most handsome and scruffiest dog.
The RSPCA will be there with a selection of adorable dogs on the hunt for a new home, and St Catherine’s kitchen staff will be on hand selling bacon and sausage sandwiches and other refreshments.
Emma Jacovelli, St Catherine’s fundraiser, said: “All money raised will go towards the vital support we provide for people with life-limiting illnesses when it matters most.
“This is the first time we’ve involved our four-legged friends in fundraising for St Catherine’s – so sign up your pet pooch and come along, it’s going to be a pawsome event!”
To sign up or for more information please contact Emma Jacovelli in the Fundraising Team on 01772 629171 or e-mail emma.jacovelli@stcatherines.co.uk

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