Staff get together to help fellow worker after stroke
A former employee’s struggle with her health inspired staff at a garden centre to raise thousands of pounds for charity.
Hannah Green worked at Notcutts, in Newnham Court Shopping Village for more than 30 years before she suffered a severe stroke while at work in January 2013.
She was rushed to King’s College Hospital in London and underwent a life-saving operation, spending the next nine months recovering at hospitals in Maidstone and Sevenoaks.
The 49-year-old said: “Having a stroke is so unexpected, I felt fine that morning and then my life completely changed.
“Everyone has been wonderful in supporting me and my family and I’m so grateful.”
In honour of her battle, former colleagues got together for two years of fundraising activities for the Stroke Association, running bake sales and in-store collections.
They have managed to raise £2,400 for the charity, which supports stroke sufferers and their families.
Jon Kemp, centre manager at Notcutts, said: “The shockwave of Hannah’s stroke sent ripples throughout the company. The recovery to where she is today has been painful and slow, but we’re delighted we have been able to do our bit to support a much loved and well-respected colleague.”
Despite her illness, Miss Green is said to be a real trooper, still volunteering at the centre when she can, on a semi-regular basis.
The money raised by this campaign will go to research, support services, and campaigning in the region. Notcutts hasn’t stopped there however, and is now raising money for Guide Dogs UK to support many blind and partially-sighted customers who visit the store.