Willen Hospice has initiated its annual festive fundraising campaign, encouraging residents of Milton Keynes and surrounding areas to incorporate the charity into their Christmas plans.
The campaign, titled ‘From your moment to theirs’, aims to illustrate how simple actions by the community can profoundly impact families receiving care.
These actions include purchasing raffle tickets, registering for festive runs, or buying gifts from the Hospice’s retail outlets.
Each year, Willen Hospice provides essential support to approximately 1,000 patients and their families at no cost.
As a charity, the Hospice relies heavily on the generosity of the local population to fund its extensive services.
An annual fundraising target of £10.4 million is necessary to maintain these vital operations.
Supporting Families Through Difficult Times
The campaign features a video designed to resonate emotionally with the community, highlighting the direct link between public contributions and the care provided.
Jo, a member of staff on the In-Patient Unit, shared her personal connection to the Hospice.
Her husband, Mike, passed away at Willen Hospice on Boxing Day in 2007, at the age of 42, following a brain tumour diagnosis.
Inspired by the exceptional support her family received, Jo joined the Hospice as a staff member.
She believes the quality of care remains as significant and life-changing for local families today as it was during her own experience.
Jo recounted that her family spent Christmas Day together before Mike’s passing the following day.
She stated that the experience continues to provide her with a strong sense of grounding.
Although Willen Hospice has undergone substantial changes over the past 15 years, Jo finds its core mission remains remarkable.
She recalled feeling confident that her husband would be well-cared for from her first afternoon visiting the facility.
Festive Events and Opportunities
Jenny, a Lead Nurse on the In-Patient Unit, is featured in the campaign video, representing the clinical team.
She acknowledged that while Christmas is a cherished time for many, it can present unique challenges for patients and their families under the Hospice’s care.
The Hospice staff strive to ensure Christmas Day feels as normal as possible, offering traditional Christmas dinners, decorations, and opportunities for precious family time.
Jenny emphasised that the care provided throughout the year, not just at Christmas, is entirely dependent on the community’s continued kindness.
Several opportunities exist for individuals to involve Willen Hospice in their Christmas celebrations and contribute to creating moments of care.
A new Christmas Festival is scheduled for Sunday, December 13th.
This event will include the popular Santa Dash and a new 5K Reindeer Run.
Activities for younger children will feature Storytime with Santa, alongside brass band performances and market stalls.
For those wishing to commemorate a loved one during the festive season, the Lights of Love remembrance service will be held again at The Ridgeway Centre on Saturday, December 5th.
The annual Christmas tree collection service in January offers another way to support the Hospice.
Additionally, the Winter Draw presents a chance to win £3,000.
Willen Hospice shops, both online and on the high street, offer a variety of festive items, including wrapping paper, cards, calendars, diaries, party wear, and affordable gift options.
A new temporary Christmas pop-up shop is set to open in Newport Pagnell on November 5th.
Further details on how to participate in the campaign can be found on the Willen Hospice website at willen-hospice.org.uk/christmas.
This story is based on reporting by MKFM. Read the original coverage: MKFM