Give the Gift of Care: Willen Hospice Launches Heartfelt Christmas Appeal

It’s the season of giving — and at Willen Hospice, that gift means so much more than just what’s under the tree. The Hospice has launched its Christmas Appeal, inspired by one very special mum-of-three, Michelle, whose story captures everything that makes this time of year so meaningful. Thanks to Willen’s expert, compassionate care, Michelle […] The post Give the Gift of Care: Willen Hospice Launches Heartfelt Christmas Appeal first appeared on MK Pulse.

It’s the season of giving — and at Willen Hospice, that gift means so much more than just what’s under the tree. The Hospice has launched its Christmas Appeal, inspired by one very special mum-of-three, Michelle, whose story captures everything that makes this time of year so meaningful.

Thanks to Willen’s expert, compassionate care, Michelle was able to celebrate not one, but two Christmases with her family before she passed away last year. Her mum, Amanda, is sharing their story to show just how much the Hospice’s work means — not only at Christmas, but every single day.

“This time last year I was helping my daughter, Michelle, settle into her room at Willen Hospice. She was just 42 years old and had stage 4 bowel cancer,” recalls Amanda. “All of the staff and volunteers were so kind and accommodating. It felt like nothing was too much trouble.”

When it became clear that Michelle might not be well enough to celebrate on Christmas Day, the Willen team gently made sure she wouldn’t miss out.

“With the help of Chloe, one of the Lead Nurses, we brought Christmas forward. There was a tree, fairy lights along the wall, and the sound of laughter filling the room. We exchanged presents, played games, listened to music. I could see Michelle watching her children — she was so proud of them,” says Amanda.

On Christmas Day itself, the staff transformed Michelle’s bedside into something magical — a table beautifully set for her, her husband, and their children to enjoy Christmas dinner together.

“Michelle smiled all the way through it,” Amanda remembers softly. “We felt so looked after. None of it would have been possible without the incredible support Willen receives from our community. We owe them so much.”

Chloe, who helped make that early Christmas happen, says it’s all about giving families the chance to hold onto what matters most.

“Sadly, not all of our patients make it to Christmas Day. For those who want to celebrate early, we do everything we can to help them make those memories while they’re well enough to enjoy them. We listen to what’s important to them — their traditions, their wishes — and then our whole team comes together to make it happen.”

Willen Hospice is, at its heart, a community project — by the community, for the community. Every year, it must raise an incredible £9.6 million to continue providing care and comfort for local people affected by life-limiting illnesses.

This Christmas, Willen Hospice is asking the people of Milton Keynes and beyond to come together once again — to give the gift of care, and to help families like Michelle’s create special moments that will last a lifetime.

To donate, visit willen-hospice.org.uk/christmas or text GIFTCARE followed by your donation amount to 70085.
(Texts cost your donation amount plus one standard network rate message. Text donations are capped at £20 per text. To donate without receiving further updates, text GIFTCARENOINFO instead.)

The post Give the Gift of Care: Willen Hospice Launches Heartfelt Christmas Appeal first appeared on MK Pulse.