Down – but far from out! Sam promises face-down fundraiser in Boston
Stuart takes Patmos Rose Croix chair
November 6, 2026
Boston Freemason Sam Brown plans to go from Boston’s Pilgrim Hospital to the town’s iconic ‘Stump’ – St Botolph’s Church – on his stomach, covering the entire 1.3-mile route using a military-style ‘leopard crawl’ to raise £2,000 for the Hospital’s Neonatal Unit.
He’s taking on the extraordinary challenge in memory of his baby son Frankie, who was born prematurely on 8 November last year but passed away before he had the chance to experience the world his family had dreamed of sharing with him.
Determined to honour his son’s memory and give something back to the team who cared for his family Sam, a member of the Lodge of Harmony has developed the challenge he’s called ‘Every Inch for Frankie’. He says it’s a heartfelt way to thank the staff for their care and support during one of the most difficult times of his family’s life.
He said: “No parent ever imagines having to say goodbye before they’ve even had the chance to say hello. During one of the darkest moments of our lives, the staff at Pilgrim Hospital’s Neonatal Unit showed us an incredible amount of love, kindness and compassion. Their care and support meant more to us than words could ever express.
“This challenge is our way of saying thank you and to help other families who may find themselves in a similar situation.
“The distance is relatively short on foot, but completing it in a ‘leopard crawl’ will be an immense test of physical strength, endurance and determination, with every inch dedicated to Frankie’s memory.”
The funds raised will help provide essential equipment and meaningful support for babies and families cared for by the Maternity and Neonatal Unit.
This includes funding 3D castings of babies’ hands and feet, giving bereaved families treasured keepsakes and lasting memories of their little ones. Donations will also help purchase a specially designed pram, enabling babies who have sadly passed away to be transported through the hospital with dignity, tenderness and respect.
Any additional funds raised will go towards supporting the Maternity Unit, helping to make a lasting difference to families during some of their most difficult moments.
To support Sam’s ‘Every Inch for Frankie’ challenge and help make a difference to families cared for by Pilgrim Hospital’s Neonatal Unit, donations can be made through his JustGiving page at this link, or within the Lodge of Harmony.
