Christmas with cancer is very tough but thanks to our incredible community’s kindness and generosity we’re able to bring back a little joy and sparkle for our Gold children on treatment.
For our families who have lost a child, we honour the child’s memory and hold their families close this time of year.
Gold Geese Grotto
Each year we hold a private Christmas grotto and party for our Gold families, spreading some Christmas magic and helping them meet others going through a similar experience.
Our grotto party is always a big hit and features Father Christmas, real reindeer, delicious food and entertainers, hosted by the fabulous Hatch team in Old Leigh.
VIP visits
This month we arranged for Father Christmas to make special visits to children fighting cancer at Southend Hospital and at home, delivering pizza and games.
And this professional ballerina sprinkled some Sugar Plum Fairy magic at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Christmas wreaths for our Gold angels
We also held a special memorial wreath-making event for local families who have lost a child to cancer.
The bereaved families made festive decorations personalised to their loved one’s favourite colours, animals and memories.
We’re also offering every Gold family a £500 John Lewis voucher to help cover the cost of Christmas and beyond.
Christmas can be a big financial worry for families fighting childhood cancer as many parents cut back work hours or give up work completely to care for their child.
Travel to hospital or car parking costs soon add up too, so times can be particularly tough.
Families can choose to spend the voucher how and when they wish, on food, toys, school uniform or spread across the year.
