‘Celebrate a star’ with Acorns Children’s Hospice
A proud grandfather is among those remembering loved ones by joining a special festive celebration with the children's hospice that cared for his "very special little girl".
This Christmas, Acorns Children’s Hospice is running a ‘Celebrate your Star’ initiative – and in return for a small donation, is inviting people to celebrate loved ones by submitting a dedication to a virtual Christmas tree.
A physical version of each dedication, in the form of words or a photograph, will be hung on a Christmas tree at one of Acorns’ three hospices, and one will be posted to the person paying tribute – to display at home in time for Christmas.
Among those celebrating a star this Christmas is George Nicholson, 72, who will be remembering a “very special little girl” – his granddaughter Emily Hart.
Emily, who lived in the Black Country, was referred to Acorns aged two years old, after being diagnosed with a rare genetic condition.
Her family were supported by Acorns, based in Walsall. Sadly, Emily died in December 2006, aged just five years old.
George said: “Acorns has had a huge impact on my family.
“They provided wonderful care and support for Emily and my family and it is something we will never forget.
“I always wish I could have done more but this is my way of saying thank you,” he added.
Over the last 15 years, George – who is based in the North East – has dedicated his time and efforts to raising funds to help Acorns continue caring for families like his, who rely on the charity’s vital support.
With the help of many ‘wonderful’ friends and family, George has raised £30,000 towards the charity’s care from a whole host of fundraising events, including 40 Great North Runs and more recently, Acorns Virtual Everest Challenge.
Ben Gilchrist, Acorns Legacy and In Memory manager, is inviting people to join George and celebrate their own stars by supporting Acorns this Christmas.
He said: “For many people Christmas is a time of celebration, but we know it can be difficult when you’re missing someone special, especially when Covid restrictions mean you are unable to get together with family and friends.
“We wanted to bring everyone together to celebrate the lives of the people they love and miss with our virtual tree.
“By dedicating a decoration, you will be helping us shine over local families and as a thank you for your donation, we will create two special shining stars – one for you to display at home and one to hang on one of our hospice Christmas trees."
Anyone wishing to celebrate their star and support Acorns is encouraged to make their dedication before Wednesday, December 16, in order to ensure their stars are ready in time for the last Christmas post.
For more information on the initiative or to make a dedication, please visit www.acorns.org.uk/mystar.
