Kate’s tea fundraiser is in memory of Mike

Event in aid of Marie Curie terminal illness charity

A Larkhall resident is hosting an event in memory of her first husband and to support the charity who cared for him.

Kate Thomas is raising funds for Marie Curie, the UK’S leading terminal illness charity, with a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Larkhall Baptist Church on Saturday, August 19, alongside a small church committee.

The event takes place from 2pm5pm and entry is a £2 suggested donation for adults; children go free.

Supporting Marie Curie’s Blooming Great Tea Party campaign, the afternoon will be a fun-filled family event with cakes, refreshments, games, quizzes, face-painting, hats from around the world and more.

Mike Thomas, Kate’s first husband, died at the Marie Curie Hospice, Glasgow, in 1997.

Kate described the difference that Marie Curie makes to people living with a terminal illness and their families: “This year on October 10 marks the 20th anniversary of the death of my lovely husband Mike Thomas from melanoma, at the age of just 41.

“In the months leading up to his death, he and I were both reassured by the staff at the Marie Curie Hospice, Glasgow, that they would be there when we needed them. And they were – 100 per cent.

“In the last week of Mike’s life, he was admitted to the hospice and received the most amazing care. Every attention was paid to Mike’s, and the family’s peace of mind with relief of his pain and other symptoms being of prime concern.

“Mike was involved in decision making at every stage until the end, and great respect was paid not only to his condition and wishes, but also to his professional knowledge and experience as an Ear, Nose and Throat Consultant. Our young children and I visited regularly, as did other friends and family members and were always made welcome and in the end, his passing was peaceful.

“Twenty years on, we are all older, life moves on and I am fortunate to have found a wonderful second husband, but our children and I remember Mike often, and with great love.

“I have supported Marie Curie as much as I could since 1997, but the opportunity has come to help to organise a Blooming Great Tea Party at my church, Larkhall Baptist. I hope we can raise a generous sum to support the fabulous work of the Marie Curie nurses, and to raise awareness of all they do to support people living with a terminal illness. And I will remember Mike.”

Marie Curie Community Fundraiser for Dumfries and Galloway and South Lanarkshire, Georgia Ramplin said: “I’ve been in touch with Kate and the church committee since day one of organising this event, and I think it’s going to be a real success.

“There will be lots of stalls selling unique gifts, and fun activities for children. We urge people to come along to the event to see how enjoyable it is to fundraise for Marie Curie.

“If you’re interested in getting involved with local fundraising, do get in touch to find out more on 0131 561 3929.”

In the last week of Mike’s life, he was admitted to the hospice and received the most amazing care