Couple take on 40 before 40 challenge in memory of beloved mum

A couple from Moretonhampstead are taking on a remarkable challenge to honour the memory of a beloved family member and support the local hospice charity that cared for her.

Sam and Matt Parkin have pledged to complete 40 fundraising events before they turn 40, raising money for Hospiscare, the Devon charity that supported Matt’s mum, Jeanette Parkin, during her final days.

“We’ve set ourselves a big challenge - to complete 40 fundraising events before we turn 40, all to support Hospiscare, the local charity that cared for Matt’s amazing mum, Jeanette Parkin, in her final days,” said Sam.

Jeanette, who passed away in March 2024, lived with various cancers for more than 30 years, overcoming breast cancer twice and later facing a diagnosis of lung cancer in 2019.

“Jeanette was one of the strongest people we’ve ever known. She fought various cancers for over 30 years, beating breast cancer not once but twice, and then bravely battling lung cancer from 2019 until she passed away in March 2024. She continued working until January 2024, and if we can be even half as strong as she was, we know we’ll manage the trek.”

The trek Sam refers to is no small feat. 

In October 2026, the couple will travel to northern India to hike through the Himalayas, trekking for up to eight hours a day across remote mountain trails and alpine meadows.

They will also visit the Taj Mahal and volunteer with a community project in Delhi.

“Before we even set foot on a mountain, we’re working hard to raise money, and to honour Jeanette by bringing people together in her memory.”

The couple have already raised 25 per cent of their target and are planning a packed calendar of local events to reach their goal. Upcoming activities include:

• Coffee mornings on 7 June and 27 September
• Snail racing at the Union Inn on 7 June
• Wimbledon-themed cream tea deliveries on 5 July
• A Grand Raffle with generous local prizes
• Their biggest event: The Summer Bash on Saturday 19 July at The Sentry in Moretonhampstead, featuring live music, BBQ, bar, dog show, games, and pantomime horse racing

“We’re both so grateful for the support so far. As the Parish Clerk (me) and a local plumber (Matt), this town means everything to us, and the response from friends, neighbours, and businesses has been overwhelming.”

Sam and Matt, both currently 38, were inspired to launch “40 Before 40” as a personal challenge and a tribute to Jeanette.

“The idea for ‘40 before 40’ was all me, being apprehensive about turning 40 I thought I would set myself a challenge! I saw the Hospiscare trek by chance and thought, why not? I like a challenge and they were so amazing and supportive when Matt's mum was there that it seemed like the perfect opportunity to give something back. Matt is up for the challenge but I'm not sure he would have signed up without a little push from me.”

Sam describes Jeanette as “quietly strong, endlessly caring, and fiercely independent.”

“She was the kind of person who just got on with things, even while dealing with cancer for over 30 years. She worked right up until January 2024 and never let illness define her. Jeanette loved working in Moretonhampstead, she worked at both Coppelia House and Holcombe House for many years but her real passion was working at the Union Inn where she loved catching up with the regulars.”

Family holidays in Cornwall are among Sam’s fondest memories.

“She spent quality time with our two children. They will never forget the memories made together. We think she’d be quietly proud of this challenge, probably shaking her head at the fuss, but secretly chuffed we’re doing something in her name that helps others.”

While both have fundraising experience, the trek will be completely new territory.

“Completely new! I’ve done plenty of fundraising over the years, particularly for Moretonhampstead Carnival, but nothing on this scale. The trek will definitely be the biggest physical challenge either of us has attempted.”

They are currently looking for more help, from raffle donations to event volunteers.

“We’re currently gathering raffle prizes and sponsorships, especially ahead of our big Summer Bash on 19th July in Moretonhampstead. We are also looking for volunteers to help at the Summer Bash. Any support, from donations to spreading the word, makes a huge difference.”

To support Sam and Matt’s journey, visit their JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/page/jeanetteslegacytrek