Hats off to Helen for raising money in mum’s memory

2:50pm Friday 19th September 2008

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A YOUNG Droitwich girl whose mother died from breast cancer in July has raised money for the hospice that cared for her.

Eight-year-old Helen Reohorn wanted to do something to help St Richard’s Hospice in Wildwood Drive, Worcester, to say thank you for their help.

The day after her mother Sandra died, aged 46, in the in-patient unit at the hospice, Helen went to Brownies where she was shown how to make paper hats.

She made a few and took them to sell at Cutnall Green C of E First School where she is a pupil, and they were snapped up.

Helen quickly made some more and with the help of friends and the school, soon made £75 for St Richard’s.

Helen’s father, Martin, said: “It was all Helen’s idea to make the hats and raise money for the hospice. Sandra spent her last days in the in-patient unit where she was cared for with dignity as an individual.”

He added: “Myself, Helen and her brother Andrew, six, have been given wonderful care and advice from the family support team at St Richard’s which has made a big difference through this difficult time.”

Sarah Popplestone-Helm, head of family support services at the hospice, said: “It was a lovely thought of Helen’s to raise some money for the hospice so other people can also receive the care and support like her mum.”

St Richard’s Hospice, at Wildwood Drive, Worcester, offers an in-patient unit, day hospice, home care team, counselling and bereavement support, all free.

Each year, St Richard’s cares for about 1,800 patients and families. This year it needs to raise £4.2m to provide all the services.