Josie’s and Highfield Professional Solutions Fundraising Challenge for Rowans Hospice

November 6th, 2025 Posted in Blog, Corporate Supporter Stories
Team Highfield on Mount Buet

In September, Josie Hughes and her inspiring team from Highfield Professional Solutions took on a truly exceptional fundraising challenge. Their goal was to climb Mont Buet, a 3,096-meter peak in the French Alps, in memory of Josie’s husband, Sam, who was cared for at the Hospice in his final days.

To put their challenge in perspective, Mont Buet stands at three times the height of Snowdon, involving a full-day ascent through steep trails, rocky terrain, and high-altitude conditions. It is a test of strength, endurance and determination, and we could not be more appreciative of everything that they went through.

Reflecting on their fundraising experience

“We wanted to do something big to raise money for Rowans Hospice and in memory of Sam, so we worked with CHX Challenge to build an event that would push us and require a lot of training. CHX were amazing and suggested climbing Mont Buet, which is one of the highest mountains you can climb in a day.

“It was a really tough challenge — climbing 1,700m in one day over 11 hours, but it was so rewarding. The views were incredible, and it was a very emotional journey to the top. Once we reached the summit, we had a toast to Sam and Rowans.

“I will always be indebted to Rowans for the care and support they gave Sam in his final weeks, and we will continue to raise money in Sam’s name to help other people have access to the same care when they need it.” – Josie

 

Team Highfield climbing Mount Buet

Josie and her team’s determination, strength, and compassion are truly inspiring. Their efforts not only honoured Sam’s adventurous spirit, he himself loved a challenge and enjoyed mountain climbing, but also raised vital funds that will directly support others in need of hospice care. Through this fundraising challenge they have raised a fantastic £7,169.

On behalf of everyone at Rowans Hospice, we would like to extend our deepest thanks to Josie and the entire Highfield Professional Solutions team for their incredible support. Your courage and commitment help ensure that others in our community can receive the same compassionate care that meant so much to Sam and his family.

Jo Fricker, Deputy Chief Executive and Clinical Director, said:

“I am deeply grateful to Josie and the Highfield Team for their extraordinary effort in memory of Sam.  Their journey to the summit was not just a physical feat, but an emotional testament to love, remembrance, and compassion.

“Josie’s continued support and advocacy for Rowans Hospice mean so much to all of us, helping to ensure that other families can experience the same care and comfort that was so precious to Sam and his loved ones. We truly appreciate the continued dedication Josie shows time and again.”

Thank you, Josie, for climbing mountains, both literal and emotional, to support Rowans Hospice. Your efforts truly make a difference.

How you can support Rowans Hospice

If you would like to get involved with becoming a Rowans Hospice Corporate Partner, email corporate@rowanshospice.co.uk or visit our page to find out more about how your company can support Rowans Hospice.