Hospice is beginning to rise like a Phoenix

Large and small donations have poured into St Michaels’ since it launched its £1m Phoenix Appeal in February. Hundreds of people, of all ages, have organised events

in a bid to raise the essential funds needed to ensure the Hospice is truly fit for the future. St Michael’s Head of Marketing, Bruni Llovet says as businesses and residents continue to support the Phoenix Appeal they never cease to be amazed at what people will do to fundraise. “We love hearing about all the wonderful events people are holding in aid of our Phoenix Appeal,” she said. “Recently, the wonderful Tracey May, from Hastings, held a ‘coffee, cake, jacuzzi and fun’ event that raised an incredible £1,155 - which is just amazing.”

Jodie Cornford, Community Fundraiser Designate, St Michael’s Hospice went along to Tracey’s event and says she had a lovely day. “The sun was shining, there was plenty of tea, cake, chatter and fun games for all the family,” she said. “Tracey worked so hard to put on a fabulous event and was lucky enough to have a good group of friends who all rallied round and volunteered in various ways.”

Tracey said she was delighted with the result. “Thanks to everyone who contributed in so many ways we smashed the target and together we did make a difference.”

Jodie says the Hospice also extend a huge ‘thank you’ to all those who went along to the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce Summer Social and Hog Roast to support the Phoenix Appeal on Thursday June 9, adding: “Delicious food and drink were served in the grounds of the Hospice and a Tree of Gifts with some amazing prizes donated by local businesses helped us to raise a total of £1,117 for the Phoenix Appeal.

Darran Penfold, Trust and Corporate Fundraiser said the event was a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to come together in an informal setting to enjoy each other’s company alongside good food and drink. “We were delighted that so many were able to attend on what turned out to be a glorious sunny evening, “ he said.

“Thank you to Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce and everyone else who supported the event.”

Before the in-patients return to the Hospice, which is hoped to be in September, there’s the opportunity to look round and see all the work and improvements that have been carried out in the Hospice along with the new In-Patient Unit. There will be a number of open days in August and if anyone would like to register an interest email the Marketing team at: [email protected]

The Observer Series is proud to sponsor the Phoenix Appeal and join the Hospice in thanking everyone for their support and with around £194,000 still to go to reach the £1m target appeal for the fundraising events to keep going throughout the summer. Anyone who would like to get involved to support the Hospice and the Phoenix Appeal contact Sally Beresford on: 01424 456369 or email: [email protected]