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Hospice Hike Set For Nov. 8

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By SHERRI LONON IN THE LOOP

The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 5, 2008

Coming off the success of last year's inaugural Gulfside Hospice's Hike for Hospice, organizers have decided to bring the event back with some new twists this year.

Not only will this year's event include a hike on the west side of the county at New Port Richey's Recreation and Aquatic Center, but also on the east, starting at Zephyr Park in Zephyrhills. Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers player Mike Alstott will return and make appearances at both locations.

"(He's) a big part of Hike for Hospice," said Linda Ward, president and CEO of Gulfside. "Last year, he was incredible. He doesn't want to leave anybody out."

The 3.1 mile, or 5K, hikes are designed to not only raise money for hospice, but also to help people honor and remember their loved ones who have died, Ward said. The event is open to those who have had loved ones in hospice care, and also anyone who has a loved one they'd like to honor.

Both the Zephyrhills and New Port Richey events will feature a memorial wall where participants can hang photos, write memorials and otherwise pay tribute to loved ones.

Last year's hike drew about 700 participants in New Port Richey alone.

This year, organizers are hoping to see big numbers in both locations, said Lisa Bricker, vice president of development for Gulfside.

"Three-hundred thousand dollars is the goal this year," Bricker said.

Money raised during the hike will help offset the cost of charity care and also go for operational costs, Ward said. Gulfside is a nonprofit organization that offers individuals and families assistance during end-of-life situations. Outpatient and inpatient care, counseling and other outreach efforts are offered regardless of a person's ability to pay.

Even when insurance is in place, Ward said the costs of care often outweigh the per diem insurance companies pay for hospice care. Gulfside absorbs the overage through fundraising.

Hospice spends "a couple million in charity care" each year, Ward said. The organization serves about 400 patients a day in Pasco County.

Walk participants can sign up in advance, or on the day of the event at either location. Advanced registrations for teams enable them to compete in a contest for the most fundraising dollars.

The cost per person to take part is $35 for adults and $15 for children 10 and under. All hikers will be given a goodie bag, T-shirt, snack and beverages. They also will be able to see and perhaps meet Alstott, who will be on hand for the beginning and end of both walks, Ward said.

Registration is accepted online at active.com by looking up the keywords "Hike for Hospice." Registrants also can contact Jennifer York at (800) 561-4883 to sign up. Pre-registration will be taken at both hike sites on Nov. 7 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The New Port Richey hike takes place at the aquatic center, 6630 Van Buren St., at 8 a.m.

Registration will be taken on the morning of the hike, starting at 6:30 a.m. Participants can bring their licensed and leashed dogs to the event, but not into the center.

The Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., walk begins at 11 a.m. Nov. 8. Registration on the day of the event will open up at 9 a.m. Participants here are welcomed to bring licensed and leashed pets to walk with them, as well.

To learn more about Gulfside, visit grhospice.org.

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