Islanders were invited to move a marathon distance throughout the month of March, to help raise funds and awareness of the charity’s therapy services for those grieving.
Some 80 people had taken part, choosing to walk, run, swim, cycle or even ski their way to 26.2 miles, and at least 40 of whom met at Sausmarez Park on Sunday, to walk the last 1.2 miles in solidarity.
‘It’s the start of something mega,’ said Sue Hollwey, GBS board member.
‘Because you can do whatever suits you, I think everyone can get involved. Somebody said they might row it, or play golf. I’ve been amazed how many people the service has helped. But grief is something we will all go through at some stage in our life, so it is a fantastic cause, and the sentiment of the challenge is wonderful.’
GBS manager Liz Pirouet Douglas said that promoting physical activity and supporting mental health were vital pillars of a healthy mind. The challenge encapsulated the whole month, with no daily target set, in recognition of the varying waves of grief, and allowing those less productive days.
‘Grief is a marathon not a sprint,’ she said.
‘That’s an important phrase for us, and the tag line for this initiative. Like a marathon, grief asks for endurance not speed. For a first event, I was really chuffed with the uptake, and people have been really inventive with it. It’s nice that they now have the chance to meet each other.’
Trish de Carteret, who recently joined the GBS committee as a director, helped launch the event. She said the service had been a tremendous support throughout the loss of her mum.
‘I just wanted to give something back,’ she said.
‘They do anticipatory grief counselling, which is how I signed up, because mum had motor neurone disease.
'It really helped me having that support throughout, and when she passed three months later, I’d already built a relationship with my therapist.
'They also help with all kinds of losses, not just a death, but the loss of a job, or a house, anything.
'It’s a very valuable service, and very well used on the island.
'Hopefully by doing more things like this, we can help raise awareness of all that they offer. Me and my dad have been walking every day in support, and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed it.’
The team were set-off on the final stint by Deputy Bailiff Jessica Roland who had run her way through the challenge, as keen patron of the charity. Spring into Action is now officially an annual event.
For more information about the service, visit https://www.guernseybereavementservice.com/
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