A challenging year brought out the best in staff and helpers F
ACE shields, fundraising and a special farewell marked a year that East Cheshire Hospice will never forget.
End-of-life care became much harder because of Covid-19 which prevented the charity from holding a single mass-participation event in 2020.
Nurses showed amazing character and spirit - their brave efforts honoured during the emotional Clap for Carers tributes each Thursday.
The community came together during lockdown, raising muchneeded funds with all ages showing incredible acts of kindness and dedication.
Tytherington School pupil Finley Foote raised an incredible £5,515 running near his Bollington home, while another youngster George Bailey climbed 108,000 steps.
Many were inspired by fundraiser Carl Lamptey who received messages of support from musicians and sports stars.
Face shields flooded into the Hospice, along with other PPE equipment. Students and staff at Fallibroome Academy produced visors, while volunteer Shelagh Julian put her sewing skills to good use making masks.
Musician John Jones has spent more than 30 years cheering up patients playing his accordion. His performances have raised more than £300,000 for charity, including £89,000 for the Hospice.
John lost his wife June in March but was determined the show must go on in tribute to his biggest supporter.
The Hospice made two key appointments in 2020. Experienced BBC broadcaster Nick Robinson was appointed a Patron of the charity, which cared for his late father Robbie, while Edna Keefe became an Honorary Vice President.
The news came as she retired after 32 years’ service. Edna’s first job was to clean the Hospice before it even welcomed its first patient and she later worked in the laundry room.
The pandemic led to volunteers standing down temporarily, the Hospice hoping to welcome them all back in 2021.