Charity shop target for Abi’s family
GRANDPARENTS of a young bride who died from thrombosis want to set up a charity shop in Hinckley in her memory.
Jan and Keith Brown’s grandaughter, Abi French (nee Edwards), from Claybrooke Magna, died from a pulmonary embolism in February 2015 just days after her 22nd birthday and less than a year after tying the knot with RAF hubby James.
The former North Warwickshire and Hinckley College student had been on medication for thrombosis since she was 18.
Since her death, and spurred on further by the death of a 29-year-old nephew from coronary thrombosis just before Christmas, the Browns have helped Abi’s mum Sarah Edwards raise more than £15,000 for Thrombosis UK.
Now they want to do more for the cause by opening a store in town but have been unable to find suitable, affordable premises.
Mr Brown, 70, said: “I want to set up a charity shop here. I’ve tried but had no joy.
“I’m begging someone to help. I’ll use my pension if need be.”
The Browns live in Leire but use Hinckley as their main shopping centre, and relatives of Abi live in the town.
To promote the cause, they will be setting up a stall in Hinckley’s Britannia Centre, off Castle Street, on Saturday May 27 from 9am until 5pm.
They will be raising money for Thrombosis UK, which supports people living with and affected by various forms of the condition, and giving out leaflets.
The couple have already helped raise thousands for the cause by holding fundraising events from bingo evenings and tabletop sales to taking part in Hinckley’s Colour Fun Run and Mrs Brown, 68, descending a zip wire for sponsorship.
Last year Abi’s mum Sarah was given a Thrombosis UK Fundraisers Award in recognition of her and her family’s support.
Jo Jerrome, chief executive at Thrombosis UK, said: “We are indebted to Sarah and her family for her support. Not only does her fundraising help the charity, but everyone joining Sarah’s events and hearing of them also gains a little more awareness and understanding of thrombosis.
“It is critical that everyone understand the signs and symptoms of this life threatening condition so that more lives can be saved and many thrombotic events prevented.”
Anyone able to help the Browns set up a charity shop in town is urged to call them on Hinckley 202665 or to call Keith on 07749 86681.