This year, we are thrilled to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 40 years of support and fundraising from Barbara Doherty MBE, who has been at the heart of Isabel Hospice for almost as long as the charity has existed.
Barbara joined the hospice in 1986, bringing with her a nursing background and a natural warmth that immediately resonated with the community. Soon after, she played a pivotal role in establishing our very first fundraising group in the Bishop’s Stortford and Rural areas, laying the foundations for decades of community support. She continues to serve as Chairman of the Special Events Committee, which organises many large events in aid of Isabel Hospice each year.
Over the years, Barbara has worn many hats: she has been a Trustee, served as Chairman of the Board for twelve years, been Vice Chairman of the Forum of Hospice Chairmen UK, sat on the Fundraising Board of Hospice UK, and is now President of Isabel Hospice.
Barbara’s dedication has also been recognised nationally. She was awarded a High Sheriff’s Award for services to the community, received an Honorary Doctorate of Science from Hertfordshire University, and was appointed MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2008 for services to the community and Isabel Hospice.
Regardless of her title, her unwavering passion has always remained the same: ensuring that local patients and their families receive the compassionate care they deserve.
Barbara continues to be a familiar and friendly face in the community, regularly speaking to local groups, attending events, and accepting donations from Rotary clubs, Inner Wheel Clubs, golf clubs, and countless other supporters of Isabel Hospice.
Reflecting on her incredible journey, Barbara shared: “The patients and families are at the heart of everything we do. Isabel Hospice has now been caring for this community for over 44 years and will continue to support all those in our care with love and compassion.”
Even after four decades, Barbara’s commitment remains as strong as ever. To mark 40 years of fundraising, she is walking ‘The Herriot Way’ to raise money and continue supporting the hospice.
If you would like to cheer her on or make a donation, you can visit her fundraising page here https://www.justgiving.com/page/barbara-doherty-mbe-1
Everyone at Isabel Hospice wants to extend a massive thank you to Barbara. Her 40 years of dedication have helped shape the hospice into what it is today, and her ongoing contributions continue to make a profound difference to our patients and the wider community.
