In Memory of Deb

Charlies is a local charity in Gloucestershire offering support for individuals and their families whose lives are affected by cancer.

Deb was diagnosed terminal ill with metastatic breast cancer in Jun-22 which had moved to her brain and spine, taking her mobility & strength.

After undergoing various treatments and whilst in recovery, when Deb first went to Charlie’s, she was understandably very anxious, however within minutes of being there (and successfully navigating the stairlifts) she was put at ease by the kind support staff.

Over the proceeding months Deb (and family) would try and visit regularly, always keen to go to the crafts room to try something new. Due to some of Deb’s treatments her memory and cognitive skills had been impacted, but the arts & crafts helped keep her brain challenged but also allowed to rest from the stresses and stains of life at the time. She could rest and forget for a just a few precious hours from everything else that was going on.

During the summer holidays we brought the ethos of Charlie’s back home and we got all the kids crafting with Deb. Even in her final weeks, the essence of Charlie’s continued to bring joy at her bedside.

Another special moment for Deb was when Charlie’s arranged a day trip down the Gloucester to Sharpness cancel, which Deb (and others) could steer the boat down the waterway. Deb couldn’t wait to get back home to share with her husband, Andrew, the joy of captaining a vessel and even spotting a kingfisher.

Andrew, and Deb’s biggest love, her children Jack and Molly, would dearly love for any donations to go to Charlie’s, so they can keep offering their amazing support to individuals with this life changing disease and their families.

Please quote “Deb” in the comments section when making a donation, with thanks.