Ade Butteriss, along with his two friends John Small and Tim MacGregor, took on the challenge in memory of his sister, Paula, after witnessing the exceptional care she received from Havens Hospices during her final months. Determined to give something back, Ade, John and Tim organised a series of fundraising events including comedy nights, burlesque shows, band performances and quiz evenings to support their trek.
“People inherently understand the vital role that hospices play in their local communities and were very generous with their donations,” said Ade. “Before we knew it, we were under a blazing sun, wading ankle deep through desert sand and sleeping out under a truly astounding star-filled sky.”
The experience proved transformative for Ade, who formed lasting bonds with fellow trekkers whilst pushing himself through the challenging terrain. “I now treasure some truly amazing memories, have a real sense of achievement and know that it was just the kind of adventure my dynamic, amazing Paula would have revelled in,” he reflected.
Tim, experiencing North Africa for the first time, was captivated by every aspect of the journey. “The scenery, people, food, and culture were all lovely and really interesting,” he said.
Tim was particularly impressed by the night skies, where planets, the Milky Way and constellations rarely visible in the UK were on full display. “What made the trip so enjoyable was being with a set of really nice people and learning so much from them,” he added.
John described the experience as a trek of a lifetime, meeting fascinating new people whilst exploring the desert landscape. He said: “Seeing an inhospitable landscape as your playground for the day was magical. The nights were just as special, bedding down open to the eye-widening expanse of the starry sky, and I saw wild kangaroo mice for the first time – words will never do it justice, it has to be experienced.”
Martin Roach also completed the challenge in memory of his father-in-law, who received care from Havens Hospices 15 years ago. Wanting a challenge that would capture his friends, family and colleagues’ attention and inspire generous donations: “The challenge was tough in many different ways, but so much more rewarding,” Martin said. “Different terrain and vistas, amazing food, but the pinnacle was the people around me. As we said our goodbyes, I felt very emotional, which is incredible after only a few days!”
Together, the four trekkers have raised over £6,500 for the charity, funds that will help Havens Hospices continue to provide compassionate end of life care to local families.
Before the trek, Havens Hospices gave Tim, Ade, Martin and John a tour of its facilities, allowing them to see firsthand where the funds would make a difference.
Havens Hospices relies heavily on fundraising to continue delivering its vital services across Essex. The charity supports babies, children, young people and adults living with incurable conditions, providing specialist care and comfort when it matters most.
Havens Hospices has a range of exciting upcoming challenges and adventures of a lifetime, including overseas marathons, skydives, wing walks, trekking Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great Wall of China. Anyone interested in taking part can visit the Havens Hospices website for more information: www.havenshospices.org.uk/events
Published on 3rd December 2025
