A memorial tree in Wilstead Burial Ground has raised more than £2,200 for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger.
It was created by Joanna Bampton, 54 and her 21-year-old niece Charlotte Fanthorpe after they experienced the care that Joanna’s husband Paul and her sister, Sue Huckle, Charlotte’s mum, received from the hospice team in their final days.
The tree allows people who have experienced the death of someone close to write their loved one’s name or a message on a heart, and place it on a branch of the tree.
The wooden hearts are decorated and supplied free of charge by Joanna and Charlotte, with people being invited to make a donation to the local hospice.
Speaking about her sister, Joanna said: “Sue was such a loving person, always smiling and always happy.
“She sadly passed away three years ago from breast cancer. Paul, my husband of 21 years, passed away in June last year after a short battle with pancreatic cancer which had spread to his liver. Paul was such a special person and a loving caring husband who is very greatly missed.
“Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice supported Charlotte and I through the most difficult time and were there for us every step of the way. We will never forget how fantastic the team were there.”
This year, over 200 memorial hearts were placed on the tree, in what has become an annual tradition.
“We would like to extend our thanks to the residents of Wilstead who have helped to make the memory tree a special tribute to our angels in heaven and for donating money to such a worthwhile cause,” said Joanna.
“Thank you to the Wilstead Parish Council too who kindly gave their permission for the hearts to be displayed.”
Charlotte Griggs, Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice added: “The tree looks beautiful, and we are extremely grateful to Joanna and Charlotte for their generosity creating the hearts with so much love to help raise vital funds for our hospice.
“All money raised will help us continue to be there when it matters for families going through the most difficult times of their lives.”
