Lichfield MP meets father who has helped raise thousands for hospice
Lichfield's MP has met with an inspirational father of two who lost his wife to cancer and has helped St Giles Hospice raise thousands of pounds.
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Dave Robertson, MP for Lichfield, Burntwood and the villages, met Sean Collins, who became the face of St Giles Hospice's Urgent Appeal after his wife Felicity died at the hospice in November 2023.
Since becoming involved with the appeal late last year, Sean has helped spearhead fundraising efforts that have raised £336,000 for the Whittington-based hospice which provided end-of-life care for his wife.
During their meeting, Sean shared his personal story and discussed the vital support St Giles provided to his family during an incredibly difficult time.
Mr Robertson said: “It was great to meet Sean and hear about his personal experience with St Giles Hospice. It is incredible to think that despite going through such a traumatic experience, Sean has found the strength to lead this funding appeal.
“We should also recognise the generosity of everyone who has sacrificed some of their hard-earned cash to support the hospice.”
The meeting came as St Giles Hospice received an extra £213,793 from the government as part of a £25m nationwide investment in hospice facilities.
"The funding represents the largest investment into hospices in a generation and will be used for upgrades and refurbishments. St Giles currently receives only 18 per-cent of its funding from the NHS, so relies heavily on donations and income generation from the community it serves to continue to provide vital care."
Mr Robertson said: “I’m delighted to see the government back St Giles. This money will help to pay for upgrades and refurbishments at the hospice.
"There is much more to do, but this announcement shows we are on the side of St Giles and the families it supports.”
Mr Collins said: "Meeting with Dave gave me the opportunity to share not only my personal story but also highlight the incredible care St Giles provides to families across our community.
“The hospice was there for Felicity and our family when we needed them most, providing dignity, compassion and support during the most difficult time of our lives.
"I'm pleased to see this additional government funding coming through, though we know much more is needed. With so much of St Giles' funding coming from the local community through various means, their continued support is absolutely crucial.
“I'm grateful for everyone who has supported our urgent appeal and to Dave for taking the time to listen and understand why this cause means so much to me and countless other families.
The urgent appeal continues to accept donations. Those wishing to contribute can visit the St Giles Hospice website www.stgileshospice.com/urgent-appeal/
