On Sunday 7th June, Tracy Clyne will travel from England to join the iconic hospice walk/run alongside her mum, sisters, nieces and friends, in honour of her father Wilfred Harrison, known affectionately as “Wilfie.”

Tracy reflected on the profound impact that Foyle Hospice had on her family during the most difficult time of their lives. She explained: “This walk means so much to us. I’m flying home to be with my family and take part. It’s about remembering Daddy, doing something he loved, and giving back to the hospice that cared for him so beautifully.”

Wilfred had been battling cancer for several years, having first been diagnosed with Bowel Cancer in 2017, followed by Prostate Cancer, and later Liver Cancer. Despite undergoing surgery and extensive treatment, his health continued to decline. In October 2023, Wilfred collapsed while out walking and was rushed to hospital, where further complications revealed the extent of his illness.

As his pain became too much to manage at home, the decision was made for Wilfred to be admitted to Foyle Hospice.

Tracy explained: “All we wanted as a family was to make Daddy comfortable, but we couldn’t do that at home anymore. The doctors and nurses at Foyle Hospice were just incredible. They made sure he was as comfortable and pain-free as possible, and they showed him so much love in his final days.”

According to Tracy, during the week her father Wilfred spent in the hospice, he was never alone, as family and friends worked together to ensure someone was always by his side. “The hospice gave us the space to be together as a family,” Tracy explained. “We had access to a family room, kitchen facilities and quiet areas where we could sit, talk and support each other. On the last night, we were given one of the family apartments, which meant we could rest and still stay close to Daddy. We were so grateful for that.”

For Tracy, the care her father received brought a lasting sense of comfort and peace.

She explained: “Because of Foyle Hospice, I know my daddy passed away with dignity. He was treated with the utmost compassion right until the end, and that means everything to me as his daughter. They also supported us as a family, emotionally and practically, every step of the way.”

She also hopes her experience will reassure others who may feel uncertain about hospice care.

Tracy continued: “Before Daddy went in, we were scared of the unknown. But the nurses at Foyle Hospice are truly angels in disguise. The love, care and attention they gave him — and all of us — was just incredible. It was the best decision for our family.”

Wilfred, who worked as a surveyor with Northern Ireland Electricity in Campsie, Eglinton, was a well-loved figure, known for his kindness and willingness to help others. A passionate sports fan, he enjoyed golf, rugby and snooker, but his greatest love was football — especially Liverpool FC. One of Tracy’s most treasured memories is taking him to Anfield for his birthday, where they watched Liverpool win 4–0.

He also loved walking and spending time in nature, something that has inspired Tracy’s fundraising efforts.

Following his passing, the family organised a sponsored walk in Roe Valley Country Park, one of Wilfred’s favourite places, raising funds for Foyle Hospice. Now, they are coming together once again to honour his memory.

Through her story, Tracy hopes to highlight not only the importance of hospice care, but also the difference it makes to families facing loss.

She concluded: “We truly could not have managed without Foyle Hospice. They gave my daddy comfort, dignity and peace — and they gave us the support we needed as a family. We will be forever grateful to Foyle Hospice.”

You can support Tracy’s fundraising efforts here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/tracy-jane-clyne-2