Demelza Hospice Care for Children, which provides specialist care and emotional support for children with terminal conditions and their loved ones in Beckenham and the surrounding areas, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary.
The Demelza hospice, which is located in Eltham, offers a lifeline to children, young people and families throughout South East London, including those in Bexley, Bromley, Croydon, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark.
The hospice received a message of congratulations from VIP supporter and Strictly Come Dancing judge, Len Goodman, who said: “I’ve got to congratulate Demelza Hospice Care for Children in Eltham, you have done a fantastic job. Len salutes you!”
The anniversary will be marked by a series of events at the hospice, a parliamentary reception at Westminster in March and a gala ball on the Cutty Sark in June.
Lynn Baker, whose daughter Lucy sadly passed away in 2013 at the age of six, was moved to Demelza hospice in 2014. Lynn told News in Beckenham: “I will always remember Lucy’s final Christmas at Demelza when they opened up the hospice especially for her.
“It was completely magical thanks to all the wonderful staff at the hospice.
“The memory of that special day has given me great comfort since Lucy died. They left their families to come and look after Lucy. I didn’t expect to make Christmas with Lucy and they gave us special memories I will treasure forever.”
Demelza is reliant on the local community through fundraising and volunteering to be able to continue providing care to local children with terminal conditions and their families.
Ryan Campbell CBE, chief executive of Demelza, said: “I am so proud of the work we do at Demelza in supporting children with terminal conditions and their families. A heartfelt congratulations to all of the team at Eltham – including the care staff, the staff who keep the building running, and the volunteers who keep everything running.
“This incredible team ensures Demelza provides care and support across the region, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Here’s to another 10 years of outstanding care.”