THE crucial role of families who raise money for a local hospice has been highlighted by its new director of fundraising, ahead of a major event.
Marie Davies, took on the role of bringing in vital cash for St Clare Hospice in Hastingwood a month ago, said she had already been impressed by the support for the hospice in the district.
"We have amazing support," she said. "I think people are very passionate about hospices. I think when they’ve seen someone they love cared for so well, they’re grateful.
“We have a lot of families who have carried on doing fundraising events every year. People feel very loyal to the hospice.
“If there was no support, we would not be able to provide the support and the care.
“We have specialist care for people who are admitted to our in-patient unit, for example, so we would not be able to provide the care and we would have to shut beds.
“It’s that important that we raise money.”
She has worked as a fundraiser for charities including hospices for the past 20 years and said she had come across many people prepared to go the extra mile to raise cash.
“I had someone once who was going to do a transatlantic rowing race,” she added. “That was for another hospice and I think he had lost his mother there.
"People have also done challenges like running a marathon or trekking in Peru and we get a lot of support from local companies."
Since starting work at the hospice, she has also overseen its weekly lottery and is in the process of setting up tribute funds that families can donate to in memory of their loved-ones.
She is also helping to organise the Starlight Walk in Loughton on September 24 from 8pm, which she plans to take part in.
“We’re always looking to speak to people who want to get involved or have fundraising ideas,” she added.
Anyone else who wants to join the five-mile walk, which starts at Trapp Hill car park, can sign up online at www.stclarehospice.org or call the hospice on 01279 773700.
To contact Ms Davies about other fundraising events, call 01279 773757.
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