Last Mile Ride, Run & Walk
Supporting Comfort, Compassion, and Dignity at the End of Life
Why It Matters
Every August, our community comes together for the Last Mile Ride, Run & Walk — a meaningful event that raises funds to support compassionate end-of-life care for Gifford patients and their families. What started as a single motorcycle ride now spans two days of activity. All proceeds go toward services and support that bring comfort, dignity, and peace in life’s final chapter.
Because of Last Mile, families in Vermont have benefited from:
- Massage, acupuncture & Reiki (for symptom relief)
- Legacy projects & professional photos for loved ones
- One-time special grants for wishes (e.g. travel, ramps, accessibility, life celebrations)
- Comfort Cart food service for families staying bedside
- Comfort Kits (prayer shawls, reading materials, small comforts)
- Support for bereavement and family meals
- Even bedside performances by Riverbend hospice singing groups
In 2025, the event raised $162,000 with the help of 655 participants and 58 business sponsors, pushing the total raised since inception to over $1.8 million.
Event Details & How to Join
To participate, donate, or volunteer call Tayo Kirchhof at 802-728-2380
The Story Behind Last Mile
The Last Mile was born out of compassion and dedication. In 2006, nurse Lynda McDermott saw suffering and wanted to help provide comfort therapies to patients without burdening families financially. A local motorcycle fundraiser idea took root and grew.
Over the years, community members and organizations (including the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association as volunteer road guards) have become the heart of Last Mile’s success.
As the event has expanded, it’s evolved into a multi-activity fundraiser that draws in hundreds of participants who ride, run, walk, and support in honor and memory of loved ones. Learn more about the Last Mile Story here.
