ST HELENA HOSPICE - CARING FOR
PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES
It was only due to the energy, enthusiasm and fundraising by the
community of North East Essex that St Helena Hospice was established - for it was that
community that created the finance to purchase and develop Myland Hall at Highwoods,
Colchester.
The good folk of Brightlingsea were amongst our first supporters and their strong financial help has continued through the years - with individuals, associations and an excellent local support group providing us with much needed funds on a regular basis.
Our hospice has a 15 bedded inpatient unit with Day
Services being provided by the on site Joan Tomkins Day Centre. In addition, an
Educational Centre was opened three years ago. Not all the care we provide is offered at
Myland Hall. We employ four Macmillan nurses who, together with our nursing and medical
team visit patients in their own homes and at hospitals and nursing homes throughout our
area.
An integral part of Hospice care is to provide help and support to those caring for a patient and our Family Support Group has greatly developed its work since our first patients arrived in May 1985.
Financially we remain highly dependent on the community we serve - this year the grant we have received covers some 20% of total expenditure.
For many years the Sunflower has represented Hospice Care in the UK and in June you will see displays in shops, banks, clubs and pubs - please will you wear a Sunflower and show support for those with a terminal illness.
One large event organised by Mrs Val Gilders and her committee will be held on Saturday and Sunday June 26th/27th - the "Brightlingsea Open Gardens Weekend" when 17 local gardens will open their gates to visitors with all proceeds being donated to us.
Entry is by programme - which clearly shows each location - price £2.50 per person which are on sale before the weekend from Brian House the newsagents and Garden World - both in the High Street. In addition, programmes are on sale at each garden. Last year's event was blessed with excellent weather and the crowds flocked to view the marvellous variety and character of so many local gardens. Such was the success that £1500 was raised to help us care for our patients and families.
Just one of our 420 shop volunteers.
Last year, sales totalled £513,000 -
almost all on donated goods.
All Proceeds go to help our care