Special messages shine for Christmas Star Appeal
24th December 2013
A cancer survivor has thanked the hospital that treated her, by adding a message to a unique book of support as part of a special Christmas appeal.
Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity's Christmas Star Appeal has seen people write personal tributes to loved ones and messages of thanks to hospital staff for the high level of care they provide. More than five hundred members of the public have so far sent in tributes and messages, which are being displayed in a special book in the hospital's main reception, and made donations to support the hospital's vital work. The charity has also set up an online tribute wall where people can leave their personal message of support and donate online to the appeal. 43-year-old, Clair Watkins, from Crigglestone in Wakefield, received treatment from Weston Park Hospital in Sheffield over Christmas 2011 and was one of the first people to give her backing to the seasonal fundraiser. Clair was diagnosed with throat cancer in September 2011 and received a four-month course of radiotherapy at the specialist hospital. Clair, who is mother to Libby, 8, and Nell, 3, said: -This time two years ago I was being treated for throat cancer and it felt like Christmas was cancelled. -The hospital was outstanding and the support of the staff, from the receptionist to the consultant, was incredible and made my time at the hospital so much more bearable. -Thanks to Weston Park Hospital I am able to spend this Christmas with my family and I hope that by supporting the Christmas Star Appeal more families are able to do the same. Those who donate to The Christmas Star Appeal will receive a silver Christmas star decoration to hang on their Christmas tree. Helen Gentle, fundraiser at Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, said: -It has been a humbling experience to read the many heartfelt messages we have received from people remembering a loved one who is sadly no longer here. -We've also received lots of messages of support for the hospital as it has played such an important role in many people's lives. -We're asking the public if they can spare just a few pounds this Christmas to donate to our appeal and add their words of support to our special book. The funds raised will help the charity fund world-class cancer research and improve treatment and care people living with cancer. -We hope that come 25th December, Christmas trees all over the region will be decorated with our special silver stars. To donate to The Christmas Star Appeal: Donations can be made online at www.wphcancercharity.org.uk/star Gifts can be made by text message by sending WPCC13 followed by the donation amount (£1, £2, £3, £5 or £10) to 70070. Alternatively, the charity can be contacted on 0114 2265370 for credit or debit card donations, or to make arrangements for postal donations.
