Pilates by Candlelight in memory of my beautiful friend Talitha 🕯️❤️

Back in 2017, we hosted our very first fundraising event for Crisis at Christmas, Pilates & Piano by Candlelight, with the room glowing with fairy candle lights and my beautiful friend Talitha playing classical Piano alongside our practice.

We loved it so much that we did it for two years running.

Sadly, Talitha is no longer with us. After her death, I couldn't bring myself to continue with Pilates by Candlelight, so our Christmas Party became our annual tradition instead.

However this year, I felt ready to return to where our fundraising journey began.

This Christmas, Pilates by Candlelight is coming back.

And what started as one little fundraising evening has grown into something so much bigger. Our wonderful Viva community has raised money through Pilates events, Christmas parties, Sound Baths and cycling from London to Brighton.

This year alone, we have raised an incredible £2,951 for Crisis.

I'm so proud of what we've achieved together. It's not really about the events it's about the people who turn up, give generously, have fun, support each other and come together to help others.

Why Crisis?

Behind the word *homelessness* are real people, often facing circumstances that have completely changed their lives. And at Christmas, when so many of us are surrounded by family, friends, warmth and a sense of belonging, it can be an especially lonely and difficult time for someone without a safe place to call home.

Crisis provides much more than Christmas meals and companionship. Their work helps people experiencing homelessness access practical support and move towards a safer, more secure future.

Everyone deserves to feel seen, valued and cared for especially at Christmas. We'll be helping people who desperately need a little kindness and support.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of our fundraising journey over the years. What began with a friend, some candle lights and a Pilates class has become something incredibly special.

This one is for you, Tilly.

With love, always. 🕯️❤️

Viv x