Hello! In case you are not already aware, I held a live music and auction event on 25^th June 2010 in order to help raise the profile and funds for two largely unknown charities: Odyssey  and the Willow Foundation. I have been volunteering for these two charities for some time - they both focus on ‘special day’ type of experiences or outdoor activity-based programmes.

Having lost a close friend to cancer recently the event was particularly poignant and part of me was spurred on by her unexpected sudden loss. (Kay had been on the Odyssey programme and she formed some special friendships that meant a huge amount to her and her family  – particularly in her final few months.)

The fundraising evening was a great success and I managed to raise over £1000 through some quite imaginative auction items donated by local business, contacts of mine as well as some of the guests themselves etc.

But I am trying, if I possibly can, to hit the £2,000 mark – which could then be split between the two charities.

So if you would like to help with this further fund-raising effort please do so safely and securely by donating online to either of the good causes by following the steps on their respective JustGiving pages.  This page allows you to donate to the Willow Foundation. If you wish to contribute to Odyssey, please go here: Donations to Odyssey.

The Willow Foundation is the only charity of its kind providing special days for seriously ill 16 to 40 year olds throughout the UK. Its aim is to provide a break from the stress and difficult realities of diagnosis and treatment. The Foundation offers the chance to spend quality time with family and friends doing something they will all enjoy and creating precious memories.

The charity defines seriously ill as any confition that is life-threatening. This includes cancer, motor neurone disease, cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystropy, Huntington’s, organ failure and many others. All applications must meet the charity’s medical criteria and be endorsed by a medical professional involved in the individual’s care.

Willow strives to create a unique and unforgettable day that is tailored to the needs and dreams of every beneficiary. He or she chooses exactly what they would like to do on their special day and Willow aims to meet and, wherever possible, exceed their expectations, making the day truly special and memorable.

The Charity was founded by Bob and Megs Wilson following the loss of their daughter Anna (but known as Willow) to cancer aged 31.

"We could not do the work we do without wonderful people like you and all your friends.  Thank you on behalf of all those seriously Ill young 16 to 40 year olds who are going to benefit as a result of your hard work.  We will be with you in spirit on June 25th and wish you all a great time and every success."

Bob Wilson OBE
Willow Foundation
Special Days for Seriously ill 16-40 year olds.

 

Many thanks for your donation and support, 

Hazel

 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.