Jozef’s Dream: The 15-Mile Tribute Walk That’s Now Changing Lives in Cornwall

A heartfelt walk from Lappa Valley to Porthpean last month raised over £1,600 for two causes close to the hearts of those who knew Jozef Stasiak, a young boy who passed away aged just 12.

Honouring Jozef’s Memory

The 15-mile journey was completed by six walkers – Heidi Stasiak, Sue Marshall, Taryn Pennock, Helen Smithers, and Pastors Adrian and Sue Mitchell. They set out to raise funds for Jozef’s Dream CIC and Children’s Hospice South West, where Jozef and his family spent his final days.

Lappa Valley near Newquay, where the walk began, was one of Jozef’s favourite places. The group made their way to Children’s Hospice South West’s Little Harbour in Porthpean, near St Austell – a journey filled with emotion and remembrance.

📷Left to Right: Helen Smithers, Heidi Stasisk, Sue Marshall, Adrian Mitchell, Sue Mitchell and Taryn Pennock set off from Lappa Valley near Newquay on their fundraising walk.

£1,693.28 Raised for Two Local Causes

The total raised, £1,693.28, will be split equally between the two causes. Jozef’s mum, Heidi, expressed her thanks:

“We thank everyone who generously donated and those who cheered us on and tooted their horns along the way. We are also thankful to the businesses that offered us the use of their facilities for comfort breaks on the route: Mark Kessell Cars, The Queen’s Head, St Stephen and Trewoon Village Stores.”

Supporting Children with Complex Needs

Jozef’s Dream CIC aims to support children in Cornwall with complex health needs. The funds raised will help provide sensory equipment to assist children in their learning at local schools.

“The funds raised for Jozef’s Dream will help us continue our mission to improve the lives of children with complex needs in Cornwall,” Heidi added. “We will now be in a better position to assist more local schools, helping them purchase sensory equipment to support their students’ learning.”

The group recently gave their first grant to Mawnan Primary School near Falmouth to purchase sensory equipment.

Schools interested in applying for help can email: jzdream2023@outlook.com.

📷Left to Right: Heidi Stasisk, Adrian Mitchell, Sue Mitchell, Taryn Pennock, Helen Smithers, and Sue Marshall arrive at Little Harbour hospice at Porthpean, St Austell.