Honouring Jim by supporting hospice
Friends of cancer victim rally round to raise funds
A group of Larkhall friends have raised thousands of pounds for a Lanarkshire hospice following the passing of a close friend.
Brenda Mckendrick, who was a volunteer at the St Andrew’s Hospice shop in Larkhall, lost her husband, Jim, to cancer last August.
Brenda explained: “I have volunteered at the hospice shop in Larkhall for five years and while I knew it was a worthwhile local cause it became very real to me last August.
“Sadly, my beloved husband and soulmate of 45 years Jim died in St Andrew’s Hospice. I cannot even start to explain the care and support shown to myself Jim and my family. I called the nursing staff ‘ low-flying angels’; they cared for my needs as much as the care given to Jim.”
Brenda and Jim’s friends Frank and Janet Craig, also of Larkhall, and other friends of the couple helped Brenda cope and get through the initial difficult days weeks and months.
Brenda explained: “Our friends demonstrated their support by fundraising for the hospice.
“Frank, Janet and friends have raised a total of £3000 for the hospice. Frank and Scott Smith organised a race night at the Ranch pub in Larkhall which raised £900 .
“Janet and Lauren Craig walked the West Highland Way and raised £1200.”
Brenda Mckendrick
However, the most unusual fundraiser held for the hospice was at the wedding of Sandra and Neil Warren in January 2016.
Brenda said: “Frank and the groom decided to raffle the wedding cake and the sum of £600 was raised.
“Frank has been instrumental over the years in raising thousands for various local charities. He’s an unsung hero. I would ask the people of Larkhall to donate any amount they can to the hospice.
“I hope it never comes the time where they may need the hospice but can I say it is just the most amazing uplifting supportive place, and hard as it was to loose Jim the St Andrew’s Hospice made it easier more bearable and above all comforting.
“We are also always looking for volunteers at the Larkhall St Andrew’s Hospice shop and if anyone could just spare a few hours to help then please call in we would love to have the support.”
Our friends demonstrated their support by fundraising for the hospice