A local schoolteacher is urging the public to support Willen Hospice as they launch their 2019 Christmas appeal, Giving Tuesday, tomorrow 3rd December.
Georgia Richardson, 24, from Turvey, has thrown her support behind the charity’s Christmas fundraiser by sharing her story of how the care she and her family received from the Hospice helped them last year.
Georgia’s Dad, Jim, was cared for by the team at Willen before losing his battle with oesophageal cancer in December 2018. Supporting the charity is her way of thanking the team and spreading the word about the unique care they provide.
Georgia, who teaches at a primary school just outside Milton Keynes, said: “One year ago I had never visited a hospice; I was terrified to go in and see my Dad, but as I walked through the entrance door, I was overwhelmed by the love, support and care not only given to my Dad, but to my whole family. The nurses and doctors were able to get on top of the pain that had been crippling him for weeks, and my mum, sister and I were given the support we needed.
“Willen Hospice has become my safe place, my sanctuary, and a place filled with love and memories. I can never repay the gift those nurses gave my family at our most vulnerable time.
“One thing I have learnt is that Christmas is just a day, and the best present in the world is not wrapped up in a parcel, it’s the love and memories shared together, and what you can give to those in need. The nurses, who give up the Christmas period away from their own families to support others, are simply amazing.”
Peta Wilkinson, Chief Executive at Willen Hospice, added: “We can’t thank Georgia enough for supporting our Christmas appeal. We pride ourselves on giving the best possible care we can all year round, but this seems more poignant at Christmas time. We need to raise £4.7M a year to carry on doing what we do, that’s £9 every minute. We may need to be there for your loved one, one day. Please support us if you can this Christmas.”
‘Georgia’s Story’ can be viewed or read online at www.willen-hospice.org.uk/christmas.
Please donate by visiting www.willen-hospice.org.uk/christmas, by calling 01908 303079 (monitored Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm), or by texting GEORGIA to 70140 to donate £10*
*Willen Hospice receives 100% of every donation. Please make sure you have the bill payer’s permission. (For questions about text donations please call 01908 303076)
