Category: News
At the start of the year, having finished work in December, Richard was looking for a challenge and an opportunity to mark that transition.
He decided on cycling Lands’ End to John O’Groats as it was something he’d long had at the back of his mind, but never really thought he would get the chance.
In March his nephew Chris’ 3-year-old daughter Mary was diagnosed out of the blue with cancer. After tests it was determined to be at stage 4 which was terrible news for Chris, and all his family. Richard wondered if there was any charity or organisation that was supporting Mary that he could raise money for, to try to do something positive.
Chris suggested Milly’s Smiles, a charity who had provided him, his wife Colette, Mary and their 10-year-old son Henry with support, to help whilst the treatment started.
For Richard, any sponsorship needed to have some element of endurance, and not be too comfortable. For that reason, he decided that he would give himself some extra challenges –
1. every night spent camping (except for emergencies);
2. solo and unsupported (apart from the very occasional meal and a shower in the houses of friends and family as I pass by);
3. mostly powered by plants (with the occasional non-vegan cake or pudding to keep morale high).
Richard achieved all of the above and so much more. His blog was a delight to read and we are in awe of what he has done for Milly’s Smiles. To date he has raised a staggering £6,649.00 which will fund 66 Milly Bags for families facing such a devsatating diagnosis.
We send our most grateful thanks to Richard and everyone who has sponsored him, and we send our love to Mary and her family and wish her all the best with her ongoing treatment.
Race to the Castle – 100km Ultra Marathon
During the last weekend in June, five lovely people undertook an incredible challenge – Race to The Castle.
This is a mamoth challenge where participants can walk, jog or run an epic 100km Ultra Marathon in the stunning surroundings of the North East of England, finally ending up at the finishing point at Bamburgh Castle.
The group have done this challenge several times in the past, this year they decided that they would do it for Milly’s Smiles.
Training began in February, and the team battled sleet, snow, rain and howling winds during their rigorous training programme.
We are in awe at their determination, dedication and commitment to raise money for us.
The photo’s from the day are fabulous and the smiles at the finish line are wonderful to see. A huge thank you to Dian, John, Wendy, David and Nadia, for your amazing support and for raising a wonderful £3,840 for us.
Wedding Day!
Milly’s Smiles Van hits the road
Milly’s Smiles Official Delivery/Events Van
Another delivery was made by David and Vicky to Leeds Childrens Hospital at the end of last month.
We have been supporting Ward L31 for 19 months now, and have helped almost 129 families during one of the most frightening time of their lives.
We make a difference every single day, not only to the families receiving our Milly Bags, but also to the nurses who get to hand out the bags. The bags make the admission process a little easier, and give the families something else to concentate on for a few minutes.
We feel so proud that we are able to help families during such an uncertain time.
In the darkest of days, a rainbow shines through,In the form of a bag filled with goodies for you.A blanket that doubles as a hug when required,And a travel mug for coffee which is essential when tired.When you need to remember, there’s a diary and pen,And of course, an elephant teddy for when you need a friend.A towel and wash kit for you to freshen up,And a cool beanie hat if you feel you need to cover up.A heat pack to chase all those aches and pains away,And jelly babies that keep the dietitians happy during your stay.All of these things you won’t realise you need, when you’re brought to hospital at unexpected speed.So when you arrive here and discover this magical pack,It’s comforting to know that Milly and her rainbow bags have already got your back.