By: Matt Weigarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Chatham-Kent residents are invited to lace up and step out for a milestone moment as registration officially opens for the 10th Annual Hike for Hospice, presented by Title Sponsor Battery Boy. The signature community event will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2026, along the scenic Mud Creek Trail in Chatham.
This year’s hike carries special significance as Chatham-Kent Hospice marks 10 years of providing compassionate, residential end‑of‑life care at no cost to local individuals and families. Organizers say the anniversary offers an opportunity not only to celebrate a decade of service, but also to honour loved ones and ensure support continues for future families.
Participants are encouraged to begin collecting pledges ahead of the event using either the online fundraising system or traditional paper forms. The Hospice Foundation has set a fundraising goal of $160,000, with every dollar staying in Chatham-Kent to support local hospice care.
Event-day activities begin at noon, offering a full afternoon of community connection before the hike officially departs at 2:00 p.m. Attendees can enjoy live music, memorial activities, lawn games, children’s programming, and other family-friendly features designed to bring people together in a spirit of remembrance and generosity.
“We invite people of all abilities to sign up, collect pledges and enjoy time together as a family,” said Rebecca Smyth, Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation Board Member. “As we celebrate 10 years of hospice care in our community, Hike for Hospice is a meaningful way to remember loved ones who have passed and honour them by paying it forward to other families in Chatham-Kent.”
Registration is free, and participants may choose to purchase a commemorative T‑shirt or a personalized memorial sign featuring the name and photo of a loved one. Memorial signs will be displayed along the Mud Creek Trail beginning April 27, offering a touching tribute throughout the week leading up to the main event.
While the official hike takes place on May 3, participants are welcome to complete their walk anytime between Monday, April 27 and Saturday, May 2, allowing for flexible participation while still supporting the cause.
For more information, to register, or to begin collecting pledges, visit www.hikeforhospiceck.com.
