Martin Foster ran the equivalent of two-and-a-half marathons to fundraise for Dr Kershaw’s and other local hospices.
GM Hospices Lead runs 100km for hospice care
Martin Foster, Programme Lead for the Greater Manchester (GM) Hospices Provider Collaborative, completed a gruelling 100-kilometre run in just one day to raise much-needed funds for local hospices. And Dr Kershaw’s Hospice was there to cheer him on!
An epic challenge for epic services
Martin’s challenge saw him run between nine hospices to raise £5,000 to support patient care. This included Dr Kershaw’s, Willow Wood, Moya Cole, Francis House, Springhill, Wigan & Leigh, Bolton, Bury and Derian House.
Upon arriving at Dr Kershaw’s, he was cheered on by staff, his wife Lucy, and children Freddie and Tilly.
Martin told us: “I love the hospices in Greater Manchester. Each one offers local people – some facing challenges I can’t even imagine – and their network something they simply can’t get anywhere else.
“This is devoted, specialist palliative care, defined by expertise and kindness. It means people can live their best possible lives in the time they have, as close to home as possible and surrounded by the people they love.
“It is what I would want for my family, and it breaks my heart to think anyone might miss out.”
Why fundraising is so important
In April 2026, the BBC reported that the deficit for seven of Greater Manchester’s adult hospices stands at £1.6 million, and this is expected to grow to £4.8 million in 2027.
Capital funding supplied by the government cannot be spent on everyday running costs. Instead, it is ringfenced for essential upgrades like building repairs and improved IT equipment.
Across Greater Manchester, NHS contributions cover only one-quarter to one-third of operating costs, forcing hospices to rely on donations and fundraising.
At Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, fundraisers help to ensure that underfunded services – including our Wellbeing Centre activities – can continue to support people in need.
Fundraisers are supported by a dedicated team to achieve their fundraising goals. If you would like to find out more or fundraise for Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, contact our friendly team on fundraising@drkh.org.uk or 0161 624 9984.