We want to keep our Grace’s memory alive
Charities to benefit from family’s annual fundraiser
04.08.2017 A charity event , organised in memory of a childminder who was murdered, is returning for another year.
Kate Seaman, whose sister, Grace Kissell died at the hands of ex-soldier John Haughen in Linwood two years ago, has arranged the second Grace’s Day to raise money for charity.
The family fundraiser helps support causes which were close to the childcare worker’s heart, while keeping her memory alive.
Kate, 30, said: “We’re having a fun day at the Masonic Lodge, in Kilbarchan, followed by a disco and buffet in the evening.
“During the day, we’ll have face painting and stalls, so there’s plenty to do for all the family and it’ll be free entry.
“Tickets for the disco and buffet, which starts at 7pm, cost £15.
“The money we raise will go to Petal Support, Victim Support Scotland and Sheffield Children’s Hospital.”
Kate added: “It can be tough when you think about what happened to Grace, but it’s important to our family that we keep her memory alive and we’re all looking forward to Grace’s Day on August 19.”
Mum- of- one Grace was killed in May 2015 when ex- squaddie Haugen, 41, stabbed her 27 times at the flat he rented from her in Cowal Drive, Linwood.
Since Grace’s tragic death, her family have held fundraising events in her memory to support Glasgow’s Children’s Hospital Charity.
And former colleagues at The Bowfield Hotel took part in a 10k race in aid of St Vincent’s Hospice.
Kate added: “We appreciate everyone’s support and I would ask any stallholders who want to get involved to get in touch with us as soon as possible.
“Grace’s daughter, Amber, 15, has been incredibly strong and we’re all so proud of her.
“She has just returned from Disneyland with my parents. A group called Embrace — which supports children who have been affected by crime — paid for the trip, which was incredible.”
Anyone who would like to get involved in Grace’s Day, which kicks off at noon on Saturday, August 19, can email gracesday2017@gmail.com