Kentish Express Ashford & District
Mum, 39, spreads festive cheer after cancer diagnosis
Christmas decorations given to community
A mum suffering from bone cancer is hoping to give back to the community by donating Christmas decorations.
Sarah Valentine, from Kennington, found out last year she had the incurable condition and feared she wouldn’t make it through that festive period.
But she is now celebrating her second Christmas since the diagnosis by offering to donate and put up decorations for those who need them.
On Facebook, the motherof-four wrote: “I have finished putting up our Christmas decorations and have a lot left over.
“Last year, I found out I had bone cancer and wasn’t sure if I would make another Christmas, making it that extra bit special now I’ve made two.
“My decorations almost never came out of the box last year as we also faced eviction from our home, but when we got a stay until January they came out and made it a home.
“That said, I wondered if anybody out there who was struggling at this time of year maybe a young family (we have received a huge amount of help this year due to my health and being moved twice) or somebody elderly who may not be able - would like my extra decorations, and I would even come and bring the tree and lights and do it all for you if you’d like.
“It’s just an idea I had when putting up mine to pay for some of the help we received and possibly make someone’s Christmas that little bit more special.”
The 39-year-old’s offer has been met with widespread praise and support, and last week she had already given out her entire surplus supply.
Ms Valentine is now asking people for the donation of more decorations, so she can spread festive cheer to even more families and individuals.
She said: “I’m hoping that maybe I’d get some more donations and be able to help more people.
“I’ve already found my first family who are coming to collect some decorations, and any more requests I get will be helping others so please do get in touch.”
■ If you would like some decorations, or want to donate, Sarah has asked you contact her through her Facebook account.