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Speech by FS at opening ceremony of 30th Annual Hike for Hospice (English only) (with photos)
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     Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the opening ceremony of the 30th Annual Hike for Hospice today (May 7):
 
Edward (Chairman, Hike for Hospice Organising Committee, Mr Edward Naylor), Dr Leong (Honorary President, Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care, Dr Leong Che-hung), Professor Thomas Wong (Chairman, Executive Committee of Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care), hikers, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good morning. It is indeed a great pleasure to join you, bright and early this Sunday morning, although the weather forecast said there could be rain.  It reminds me of an old saying, that "When life gives you a rainy day, play in the puddles".
 
     Rain or shine, it won’t stop us from pursuing a great cause. Thank you all, for some 400 of you gathering here, for challenging yourselves for a great cause by putting your best foot forward in Corporate Challenge and Alumni Challenge groups, as well as team and individual categories.
 
     You'll do so to support the 30th annual Hike for Hospice, and the remarkable work of its organiser, the Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care.
 
     Last year, despite COVID, Hike for Hospice brought in HK$1.5 million in a virtual hike. The money raised brings palliative care and bereavement services for underprivileged terminal patients. It ensures that their remaining days are filled with warmth and dignity.
 
     It must indeed be very tough for those with life-limiting illness, as well as their families in their time of grief. Here, I must extend my most sincere gratitude to you all and the Society, which has worked tirelessly to improve hospice and palliative care in Hong Kong. Your love and care mean a lot to them.
 
     Your participation has reminded us of the sustaining spirit of Hong Kong. It is a reminder that Hong Kong is a caring community, and that you are - each and every one of you - caring people.
 
     I wish you all a memorable Hike for Hospice and a fun-filled day. Thank you!
 
Ends/Sunday, May 7, 2023
Issued at HKT 11:46
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Photo

The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, speaks at the opening ceremony of the 30th Annual Hike for Hospice today (May 7).
The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, attended the opening ceremony of the 30th Annual Hike for Hospice today (May 7).  Photo shows Mr Chan (fifth right); Honorary Presidents of the Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care Dr Leong Che-hung (fourth left); the Chairman of the Hike for Hospice Organizing Committee, Mr Edward Naylor (second left), and other guests at the ceremony.
The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, attended the opening ceremony of the 30th Annual Hike for Hospice today (May 7).  Photo shows Mr Chan (third left); Honorary Presidents of the Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care Dr Leong Che-hung (fifth left); the Chairman of the Hike for Hospice Organizing Committee, Mr Edward Naylor (second left); the Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care, Professor Thomas Wong (seventh left), and other guests sounding air horns to kick-off the race.