21-year-old Marisa Spencer from Southampton, who has spent more than a year as a hospital inpatient, has adapted our Walk This May challenge. Instead of walking 100km outdoors throughout the month, every day she's completing one wheelchair lap of the grounds of University Hospital Southampton.

Living in hospital with complex medical needs and autism, Marisa says the weekly visits from PAT Dog Kimmy and owner Roger Hammett have become a vital source of comfort, stability and emotional support during an incredibly difficult period.

“Hospital can be incredibly difficult and overwhelming," Marisa explains. "It’s a place where almost everything changes – staff rotate, wards change, routines shift. That unpredictability can be really hard.

“But one of the most important supports throughout my hospital journey has been Kimmy. She has been a constant in a place where very little stays the same. Seeing her, knowing what to expect, and having something familiar has helped me feel grounded and safe in an environment that often feels unpredictable.”

Marisa says Kimmy, a Labrador Retriever, has supported her emotionally during seizures and periods of sensory overload, helping her feel calmer and less alone during challenging moments.

“Kimmy hasn’t just been a nice extra during my admission – she’s been a source of safety, regulation and consistency.”

Marisa also praises Kimmy’s owner and PAT Volunteer, Roger Hammett, a retired BBC broadcaster from Southampton who has volunteered with PAT for six years.

“Roger has gone above and beyond and showed care and compassion. They have both continued to support me through everything no matter what life throws at me.”