Family's Walk for Claudia
On Saturday 26th September, Colleen Grice is taking on a 12-mile walk in memory of her daughter Claudia, who on the 1st of May this year would have turned 30, and who used Rose Road's service for over 20 years.
She will be joined by her husband Steve, Claudia’s brothers Glenn, James and Patrick, family, friends and several members of staff from Rosewood School and Rose Road.
Colleen explains, “We wanted to do something special to remember our Claudia and also support Rose Road for the massive impact it had for our family over the years”.
Claudia’s journey with Rose Road started over 20 years ago when she started having overnight respite stays and care at home from the age of seven. When she left education, she started at The Hut day service.
Colleen continues, "She loved playing with balls, balloons, and playing African drums in music therapy. She was always happy and laughing. She was very extrovert and had everyone at her beck and call!"
"She was simply a part of Rose Road for years. They let her just be her."
And even during her last years there, she was always making progress. They helped her so much with her communication and her feeling of belonging.
And it was a lifesaver for all of us. With her three brothers to look after while working, we had a very busy family life. Being able to have time with my boys whilst Claudia also had valuable time in a place that was “hers” to do the things she loved, with people she's known for so long, was invaluable.
We all recognise what life is like for parents and carers of a disabled young person, but I think you can underestimate the impact for the young person who actually experiences Rose Road and what they get from it.
It gave Claudia that alternative experience, the chance to be with her friends and spend time away from her family in her own place, and experience opportunities we couldn't always give her at home.
"Over the years, Rose Road was just as important for Claudia as it was for us. It's difficult to sum it up into one sentence but we are eternally grateful to Rose Road".
The walk will start at Costa Coffee at Winchester train station at 10am (Claudia was born in Winchester). They will then pass through Otterbourne, Chandler’s Ford and Southampton Common, before finishing at Clockwork Bar on Shirley High Street and the family’s local where Claudia was well known and loved.
Clockwork Bar has also been a strong supporter of Rose Road through the family's connection, most notably raising funds for us through their annual Shirley Fringe Festival in 2025.
Colleen concludes:
"Claudia is missed every day, and we hope the walk will be an opportunity for everyone to remember her and celebrate her life”.
Donate to support the family
A donation in support of the family's walk will help support more young people like Claudia to have their own place at Rose Road too - to belong, find friendship and thrive.
