Thank you to everyone who joined us on 13 June for our Summer Memories service. It was a very special afternoon, and we are so grateful to everyone who came along to remember loved ones together.
Our Summer Memories appeal is still open for anyone who would like to make a donation.
This is the first year we have held our Summer Memories service and appeal. It’s an opportunity to reflect on and share your favourite summer memories of time spent with loved ones who have died, and to celebrate the special place they continue to hold in your lives.
Our first Summer Memories service
Around 80 people of all ages joined us for this informal and thoughtful service, held in the beautiful grounds of our hospice in Broomfield, Chelmsford.
Guests spent time exploring the gardens, enjoying the summer sunshine and listening to live music before the service began at 3pm. Led by Susanna, our Chaplain and Spiritual Care Lead, the service included readings, performances from the Farleigh Hospice choir and time for peaceful reflection. Afterwards, people stayed to enjoy garden games and a delicious cream tea, before the event ended at 5pm.
Watch highlights from the day
Share a memory and support our appeal
Demand for hospice care and bereavement support continues to grow, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has kindly supported our Summer Memories appeal so far.
If you would like to take part, you can share a memory and make a donation to help us continue delivering specialist care and support across our community.
Your gift will help us to be there for more people like Robson and his family.
Robson was diagnosed with a brain tumour when he was 22. He had an operation to try to remove it but had a major stroke afterwards which affected his mobility and caused expressive dysphasia, so he could only say a few words.
Farleigh arranged regular physiotherapy to improve Robson’s strength and walking. We organised a special chair, so he could sit and stand more easily, and a stairlift, so he could get to the upstairs bathroom in his home. This helped Robson to keep his independence and dignity and improved his quality of life.
We also gave his family expert advice and support whenever it was needed and provided specialist grief counselling to Robson’s mum and sister after he died.
Anyone can give a donation to the Summer Memories appeal and share memories and photos of loved ones who have died. As a thank you, Farleigh will send a special card with wildflower seeds that can be planted to remember them.