Son-in-Law takes on the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge for Hospice Care
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Karl Wychereley, aged 39, from Cambourne is taking on the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 May 2027.
The challenge consists of an epic 106 km coastal trail run, walk or jog looping the entire island. It starts and finishes near Chale basecamp, featuring over 1,800 meters of cumulative climbing past iconic landmarks like The Needles and Cowes.
He kindly shared his reasons for fundraising for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity who support people in Cambridgeshire living with an advancing serious illness and those who need end of life care.
“Late 2025, my Father-in-Law, Bob Marsh, was put on the palliative care pathway. Shortly after, he needed the support of Arthur Rank Hospice Charity. This began with visits from the Hospice at Home Team and medication to support his symptoms. It was quickly recognised that trying to care for Bob at home was becoming a challenge.
Bob and his children made the tough decision to go into the Inpatient Unit at Arthur Rank Hospice. As you can imagine, this decision was incredibly tough for Bob and his children. The staff and doctors were incredibly patient until Bob decided when was the right time for him. After a quick phone call, Bob was given a bed straight away.
Both my wife, Jessie and I, are paramedics, so we had heard and had a slight insight into Arthur Rank Hospice through taking patients to and from there. However, it wasn’t until Bob was admitted that we truly got to see the amazing work that everyone does there.
From the moment we entered the building we were greeted with friendly smiles and caring individuals. From the people in the Bistro, the reception, the cleaners, nurses, doctors and clinical staff, we could not fault anything. Everyone there is truly outstanding.”
Karl continued:
“The staff at Arthur Rank Hospice did not just look after Bob during his six-week stay but they also supported and helped Jessie, her brothers Leon and Jake, and family through this really tough time.
We will never forget the love, compassion and care they showed us all. Especially Bob’s seven grandchildren who would regularly come to see him and take over the lounge area.”
Karl explained more about the challenge:
“The location of this event is very close to our hearts as Bob loved the Isle of Wight. He had family there and would visit multiple times a year with Jessie until his health deteriorated. I’ve never run a distance to this extent. The furthest I have run is 25km. To complete this epic challenge in one of his favourite places is an honour and to raise money for such a magnificent, caring and unique charity is a privilege.”
Karl concluded:
“You really do get the very best care from Arthur Rank Hospice Charity. To hear that they have had funding cuts is incredibly sad. I don’t know what we would have done without the Arthur Rank Hospice facilities or support from the staff who took care of Bob and his family. We cannot thank them enough for everything they have done, for not only Bob, but every patient who needs them.”
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