Sobell House: Tie a Ribbon, Share the Love

Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons at Oxford’s University Parks invites you to celebrate great people in full colour, including Zach Lewis’s beloved dad Mickey

Join the Rainbow of Ribbons to Brighten Lives

Once again, the hospice team invites you to join the Rainbow of Ribbons hospice fundraiser, a heartwarming event that brings colour and joy to every person they care for. This fundraiser encourages the community to create a vibrant rainbow of ribbons, symbolising hope, remembrance, and support for Sobell House Hospice.

Remembering Mickey Lewis: A Legacy of Love

One person for whom the ribbons mean a lot is Zach Lewis. His dad, Mickey, an inspiring local footballer, manager, and coach, passed away in 2021. Zach and his wife Suzanne have shared how they keep Mickey’s legacy alive through Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons.

Suzanne says: “University Parks holds so many memories for us. Mickey coached the University of Oxford Football Team, and we often met his students there. Finding Mickey’s ribbon felt magical, like everything came full circle. Each colour has meaning, and each ribbon tells a story. Therefore, the event is not just remembrance — it’s a celebration of the man and Daddy we love.”

Hospice Heroes Taking on Challenges

Nicola Duckworth is swimming the channel in August with friends Steve and Carl. They hope to finish in under 15 hours; however, they will be happy just to complete the challenge. Living in Oxfordshire means limited sea swimming, so they train in lakes and make weekend trips to the coast. You can support Nicola here: Nicola Duckworth is fundraising for Sobell House Hospice Charity.

Similarly, in April, Ele and Graham completed a 24-hour cycle challenge in their garage and raised £2.6k. Ele previously did a swim challenge last summer in memory of her brother-in-law, Justin, and returned to support more this year.

Honouring Sandra: London to Paris Bike Ride

John Hill will ride from London to Paris on 31 July with five friends. This ride is in memory of his wife Sandra, who was cared for by the hospice community team at home in 2020. John and Sandra took on this challenge with friends in 2016. Six months later, Sandra was diagnosed with cancer. Now, John and his friends ride to remember her and raise awareness.

The Ashman Family’s Fundraising Triumph

The Ashman family recently held another spinathon, raising their total to over £12k! Upcoming events include Steve’s Tenby Ironman in September and three family members running the Oxford Half Marathon. Additionally, Pete is aiming for a place in the 2026 London Marathon. Thanks to their incredible commitment, the hospice team is deeply grateful for their ongoing support.

By making a dedication, you will help Sobell create a beautiful and moving display. Please visit here. You’re welcome at the launch event on Sunday, 20th July at University Parks, Oxford. The display will remain at the Parks until the end of August.

If you wish to read more about how to help out your community, click here.

Share