‘Anna has been a real inspiration...’
A WOMAN who set up a charity to promote organ donation in honour of her husband and son has been awarded an Echo Bouquet of the Week.
Anna-Louise Bates, from Thornhill, set up her charity Believe after her husband Stuart and seven-year-old son Fraser, nicknamed “Fraser Bear”, died in a car crash in 2015.
Fraser’s organs were donated and went on to save the lives of at least four people.
Through Believe, 42-year-old Anna-Louise aims to break down the taboo around organ donation and get people discussing their wishes about what happens to their organs after death.
Councillor for the Llanishen ward Phil Bale nominated Anna-Louise for her inspirational work with the charity.
“Anna has been an inspiration to many, founding a new organ donation charity and raising thousands of pounds towards better organ donation support – both for donor families and recipients,” Cllr Bale said.
“We’re very proud of her and the work of the Believe charity team in north Cardiff.”
Anna-Louise said: “It’s nice to receive the recognition, but obviously you don’t go into these things to have it. It’s an honour to feel that people do appreciate the work that has gone in.
“But for me, it’s the drive to try to help others really and make a positive out of such a tragic situation that helps me and my daughter.”
Anna-Louise received the flowers ahead of the annual Believe Ball, held at Cardiff City Stadium on Saturday evening.
The fundraising event included an auction, raffle and entertainment from band The Zoots.
■ If you know someone who deserves an Echo Bouquet of the Week, email your nomination, with reasons, and your name, address and telephone number to: echo. newsdesk@walesonline.co.uk
■ You can also write to South Wales Echo, Six Park Street, Cardiff CF10 1XR. Usual Media Wales terms and conditions apply, and all nominations must agree to be photographed.