City Hospice, Cardiff’s local hospice, has announced a brand new route for its annual Sparkle Walk taking place this September.
The Sparkle Walk is a night-time walking event that raises funds for City Hospice, the only provider of home-based specialist palliative care in Cardiff. Hundreds of participants walk to remember loved ones, often wearing personalised t-shirts and decorated in sparkles.
Having previously taken place in Llandaff and Whitchurch, this year the route moves to Cardiff Bay. Starting and ending at Tiger Yard, participants at the event can choose the distance they would like to complete, with the introduction of a 5k walk in addition to the usual 10k.
The new route guides participants on a scenic journey, taking in popular sights and crossing the barrage. The route has been designed to be easy to follow and enjoyable, with a pause at the halfway point offering a shared experience that brings participants together in memory of their loved ones.
Sharon Rogers is returning to take part in the Sparkle Walk for a second year in memory of her dad.
Sharon said: “Taking part in the Sparkle Walk last year felt truly magical. I thought it might be sad, but seeing Cardiff lit up by people quietly remembering their loved ones was beautiful.
“I walked to honour my dad who was looked after by City Hospice at the end of his life. I’m taking part again this year to celebrate his life and to thank City Hospice for the care and kindness they gave him and our family when we needed it most.”
Mac Smith, Fundraising and Events Manager at City Hospice, said: “We can’t wait to light up Cardiff Bay this September. Cardiff Bay is the perfect location for the event, with a vibrant mix of modern architecture, rich history and scenic waterfront views for our participants to soak in even at night. It’s a joyous way to remember loved ones and allow our memories of them to shine in the community, a powerful reminder that no one has to face loss alone.
“Although this fantastic route is new for our Sparkle Walk, our presence in the Bay and the south of the capital is not. As Cardiff’s local hospice, we support people in every part of the city, caring for more than 500 patients at any one time and providing valuable services for those touched by illness or bereavement wherever they live in Cardiff.”
