Nine-year-old Flynn Cannell, has captured the hearts of his community after completing a sponsored walk in memory of his grandad, Phil Cannell—raising an astonishing £1,100 for St Joseph’s Hospice, affectionately known to Flynn as “Grandad’s Hospital.”

Flynn set out with a simple goal: to “give something back” to the hospice that cared so lovingly for his grandad. The Cannell family described the support they received as exceptional, and Flynn’s determination to help other families receive the same compassion has inspired friends, family and neighbours alike.

Originally, the family set a fundraising target of £500, enough to provide essential items for the nurses, carers, patients and families at St Joseph’s. But Flynn’s tremendous effort—and the generosity of the community—has already more than doubled that amount.

And this is just the beginning.

To launch what they hope will be a year filled with meaningful fundraising activities in celebration of Phil’s life, the Cannell family kicked things off in festive style by taking part in the Liverpool 2025 Santa Dash. Dressed head-to-toe as Santas, they dashed through the city streets to raise vital funds for St Joseph’s Hospice.

Flynn’s enthusiasm, combined with the family’s heartfelt mission, has set the tone for a year of giving in honour of a much-loved dad, husband and grandad.

“We’re so proud of Flynn,” the family said. “He’s really kick-started our fundraising in the best possible way. The support we received during Dad’s time at St Joseph’s meant the world to us. This is our way of giving back and helping other families who may one day need the same care.”

With more fundraising plans in the pipeline, the Cannells remain committed to celebrating Phil’s life while supporting the hospice that guided them through such a difficult time.