Dragon Information Systems employees are preparing for the MK Marathon weekend as they raise money for Willen Hospice, reinforcing the importance of sustainable hospice funding in Milton Keynes.

Four members of the Milton Keynes IT company — Mike Dancy, James Hart, Alan Richardson and Tom Nugent — will run 5K on Sunday before taking on the half marathon on Monday. Together, the Dragon Information Systems team hopes to generate significant support for Willen Hospice, which delivers specialist end-of-life care across Milton Keynes.

Mike, key account manager at Dragon Information Systems, said the cause is close to the team’s hearts. “Willen Hospice’s care touches thousands of local people every year,” he said. “They give comfort, ease pain and reduce anxiety for patients and their loved ones.”

Willen Hospice receives less than a quarter of its funding from the NHS. As a result, the charity depends heavily on donations and community fundraising such as the MK Marathon. Local businesses, including Dragon Information Systems, play a growing role in helping to bridge that funding gap.

Mike previously completed a 61-mile walk for Willen Hospice, raising more than £3,000 in just over 15 hours. However, he is aiming to go even further this year. “As most people know, just over two years ago I walked 61 miles in just over 15 hours for Willen Hospice and raised more than £3,000,” he said. “This year, I want to raise even more and help smash my target.”

He added: “We receive less than a quarter of our funding from the NHS, which means the rest has to be raised locally. Every pound makes a difference and enables Willen to do more for more people across Milton Keynes when and where they need it.”

The MK Marathon has become a key fundraising platform for Milton Keynes charities. Meanwhile, employer-backed challenges like this demonstrate how an IT company can use major local events to give back to the community while raising awareness of essential hospice funding.

Supporters can donate to the Dragon Information Systems team’s campaign online.