How your Walk the Wight fundraising helps people like Bob

A former rambler, Bob Westhead, from Newport, spent countless days exploring the Island’s beautiful landscapes, enjoying the camaraderie of fellow walkers. But life took an unexpected turn when Bob was diagnosed with bowel cancer and pulmonary fibrosis, conditions that have significantly impacted his mobility and health.

"When I was at my lowest ebb, Mountbatten gave me support and encouragement."

Recently, Bob spent three weeks on Mountbatten Isle of Wight’s inpatient unit, where he received the care and support he needed during a particularly challenging time. Reflecting on his experience, Bob shared, “When I was at my lowest ebb, the team here gave me support and encouragement. They do a wonderful job, with care and consideration that never stops.”

During his time on the inpatient unit, Mountbatten’s dedicated team worked to manage Bob’s pain and develop a treatment plan that would allow him to return home. “The doctors found a way to ease my pain, and now I can go home and remain independent,” Bob said. “That means everything to me.”

Photo: Bob Westhead at Mountbatten’s inpatient unit, sharing his story of care and support.

"Mountbatten is a place where people who are lonely or struggling can find support, friendship, and a smile."

Bob’s journey with Mountbatten began long before his stay on the inpatient unit. As a volunteer at Mountbatten Isle of Wight's John Cheverton Centre in our hospice building in Newport, he witnessed firsthand the impact Mountbatten has on the community. “The John Cheverton Centre is a lifeline for so many people,” Bob explained. “It’s a place where people who are lonely or struggling can find support, friendship, and a smile. I’ve seen how much it means to people.”

Photo: Mountbatten Isle of Wight's John Cheverton Centre at the hospice building on Halberry Lane, Newport

“To all the fundraisers, please keep up the good work. This Island needs people like you."

Bob is deeply grateful to everyone who supports Mountbatten Isle of Wight, whether through fundraising, volunteering, or participating in events like Walk the Wight. “To all the fundraisers, please keep up the good work,” he urged. “This Island needs people like you. Without your support, Mountbatten couldn’t provide the care that makes such a difference to people like me.”

Photo: Walkers make their way past the iconic Carisbrooke Castle during Walk the Wight.

As Bob prepares to return home, he has a message for everyone walking the Wight this year: “Hopefully, it’s a dry day, but I know a Rambler won’t be put off by the weather. Keep going, because what you’re doing is essential. You’re helping people like me, and I can’t thank you enough.”

Watch Bob's heartfelt message of thanks to everyone walking the Wight this year:

Click here to watch Bob's heartfelt message to everyone taking part in Walk the Wight 2025 on Sunday, 11 May.

Mountbatten Isle of Wight supports over 2,300 people like Bob on any one day, both on the inpatient unit and in their homes. Your fundraising ensures this vital care continues, bringing comfort, dignity, and hope to those who need it most. Thank you for making a difference.