Veterans charity gets birthday party boost
PLUCKY pensioner Shirley Phillips was determined not to stop a bout of ill health preventing her from enjoying her 75th birthday - even though it happened five months late.
And she decided she’d forgo gifts to help her celebrate, instead asking for donations to BLESMA - the British Limbless ExServicemen’s Association.
Her selfless act has brought in more than £460 for the charity.
Son Troy explained the background to the fundraiser. He said in September 2016 his mum began suffering mobility issues, then succumbed to a bug and became very ill, having to be admitted to University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire in Walsgrave.
He added: “To cut a very long story short she was eventually diagnosed with a benign brain tumour - the size of an apple - and spent four months in hospital and had the thing surgically removed.
“On July 1 last year mum turned 75 and she had arranged a “I’m 75 and I’m still alive party” - ironically two days before she took another turn for the worse and on the day of the party she was in Walsgrave again after suffering severe fits.
“Not wishing to be deterred, and recovering at a rapid rate of knots, the party was re-scheduled for December 9. The key thing is that mum was determined for some good to come out of the whole affair so instead of asking for presents she unselfishly asked for donations to BLESMA.”
Shirley, who lives on the Hollycroft estate in Hinckley, chose this particular charity as it remains close to the hearts of herself and other family members.
Two of her sons - including Troy - are veterans, with Troy having spent many years with bomb disposal teams. Many of his friends either support or are supported by BLESMA.
Troy said: “Mum chose BLESMA for a number of reasons. The first is a good friend of mine lost an arm in Northern Ireland in the early 90’s and he has been a champion of BLESMA for a long time. “Despite his injuries he set a great example by continuing to be a bomb disposal officer and has done many operational tours - in fact only recently he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.
“He is also a bit of a character who made a lasting impression on my mum with his humour and his support for BLESMA.
“Mum was also aware that some of the newer services charities have taken a lot of the limelight and support - for good reason - like Help For Heroes and thought it would be nice to support BLESMA who have been around a lot longer, do fantastic work, but aren’t so much in the public eye.”
The party, attended by family and friends, encouraged generous donations and these, together with a prize raffle, ensured £464.42 was amassed.
The family are thanking everyone who made donations or offered raffle prizes.