Families being supported by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) joined other determined walkers to complete the charity’s Pier 2 Pier Suffolk fundraiser.
Saturday’s event, a 16-mile trek from Lowestoft to Southwold, was enjoyed by nearly 140 people, and the current amount raised sits at £41,500.
It ran in tandem with a family-friendly Mini Pier 2 Pier walk, which took 66 fun-loving participants on a 3.5-mile walk around Southwold.
Among the enthusiastic walkers on the start-line for the main event were several families receiving support from EACH, including a couple whose baby son died peacefully in their arms in August 2025, aged just 11 months.
Sophie Lang and Matt Foulds were joined by family, friends and colleagues and managed to raise an astonishing £12,800.
The walk took place just two days before what would have been their son Jacob’s second birthday on 14th September.
Supported by EACH’s team at The Treehouse, his family were able to bring him home for his final weeks, where they spent precious time together away from hospital wards and machines.
“We were thrilled with the amount raised, and one of the things that made this event extra special was the number of families taking part,” said EACH Events Fundraiser Ellie Nevard.
“So many signed up, joined by extended family and friends, which gave the walk even more meaning and significance.
“It was inspiring and motivating for other fundraisers to spend time with those who are directly impacted by the care and support we provide.
“For them to walk side by side was a reminder of why they had signed up to take part.
“The families’ presence added an extra element and made the day even more memorable. It felt like more than just a fundraising event.”
Before starting their walk, participants heard some inspiring words from mum Sam Jestico, whose son, Levi, has a rare genetic condition and has been receiving care at The Treehouse since August 2024.
The 12-year-old’s condition remains undiagnosed but has been likened to the rare, inherited neurodegenerative disorder Ataxia-Telangiectasia (A-T).
“Our sincere thanks go to Sam, as well as all the brilliant volunteers who gave their time to ensure the day ran smoothly,” added Ellie.
“It was such a lovely, perfect day.
“We had the weather on our side for once, and it was warm and slightly overcast, without being too hot.
“It was great for our walkers, and it also meant people stayed longer at the end.
“Lots of them stayed to cheer others on, and everyone gathered to have fish and chips together.
“There was such a lovely atmosphere with so many smiling faces, and we felt fortunate to be joined by such a friendly, positive group of people.
“It was a pleasure to be in their company.”
Despite fewer participants taking part than last year, the current fundraising total has already smashed the 2025 total of £37,000.
The Suffolk Pier 2 Pier walk takes participants along a varied route featuring coastline, countryside, sand, footpaths, fields and rural lanes.
Pictures: Glenn Hands and Karen Self/EACH
