Supporters fundraising stories

Claire Bryant: fundraising superstar

Find out how Claire, one of our specialist palliative care nurses, has raised so much money for the London to Paris cycle challenge she’s taking on in September.

Name: Claire Bryant
Events: Cycle London to Paris 2025
Venue: Tower Bridge to the Eiffel Tower
Amount raised: £4,350 to date

Why did you choose to support Katharine House Hospice with your fundraising?

Working as a specialist palliative care nurse within the community team I see how all the tremendous people working at Katharine House contribute towards and provide specialist symptoms management, including emotional, physical and psychosocial support for patients and their loved ones. Also, being part of the local community, I have experienced first–hand how friends and their families have also been supported during their most challenging and difficult times.

Tell us a bit about your event or activity

I wanted a challenge for 2025 and what better way of achieving this than a London to Paris cycle ride for Katharine House Hospice, a charity close to my heart.

“I am excited to be part of this wonderful event and grateful to have the ability to get fit enough to be a member of the charity cycling team. I have also been humbled by all the generous donations that have been given by those who are encouraging me and trust that I can do this! I have got this!!!!”

What tips would you pass onto other fundraisers? What worked well for you?

Telling as many people as possible about what you are doing, either through social media or face-to-face encounters. Spreading the word via community groups that you may be involved in, such as the village café, local school or pub for example.

Cakes are always a good way to fundraise as supporters can get something tasty to eat or even be involved in the fundraising by baking! It brings people together! With support from my friends and the Village Reading Rooms we organised an afternoon tea, which was a great community afternoon and raised a substantial amount of sponsorship. I couldn’t have done it, though, without the star bakers, trusty friends and the support of all who attended.

Don’t forget a raffle! You will be so surprised at people’s generosity and support!

How much did you raise?

The support I have received has been beyond expectation. So far, I am over £4,300, which is totally amazing! I get all emotional when I think about the support I have had! 

I have been notching up my target and am currently aiming for £4,500, but maybe I could stretch it to £5,000!

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?

It has been somewhat of a challenge for me to get going as I didn’t even have two wheels, appropriate clothing or road bike experience when I signed up for the challenge back in November. But in the last few months I am pleased to say that I am now fully equipped with clothing, a comfy saddle and proudly sporting my new road bike named ‘Hilary’.

Hilary has been named after one of our wonderful patients who has true grit and determination and loves and cares for others while navigating her own health battles. I therefore feel in very safe hands with Hilary. As one of my friends pointed out, when the going gets tough when training or during the event, all I need to do is look at Hilary and get the extra motivation I need!

Let us help you to help us

If you’ve been inspired by Claire and think you would like to join one of our challenge events, then take a look at our events calender. We have also created a set of website pages to help you with: