Easter comes early for children at Bluebell Wood as Tickhill charity funds gift boxes

The charity would ordinarily host a variety of fun-filled Easter and spring events at the hospice for the families in its care to get together and make precious memories.

But while it’s not possible in the same way this year, it hasn’t stopped Bluebell Wood spreading some much-needed sunshine in the run-up to Easter.

Families have been sent a box packed full of spring-themed goodies and activities, thanks to a generous £500 donation from the Tickhill and District Lions which helped fund the boxes.

Fourteen-year-old Kian Critchley, who has a life shortening condition and has been visiting Bluebell Wood for respite care since the hospice opened, was over the moon to receive his spring surprise. Kian’s not able to walk and talk, but his smile when he opened the box says it all.

“During lockdown we’ve all lost a lot in terms of what we can do but knowing that Bluebell Wood is still there for us is such a massive weight off,” said Kian’s dad, Tony, from Doncaster.

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“It’s our second home and we’ve really missed the amazing events at the hospice this past year which are such an important point of our lives, so thoughful gestures like this mean so much to us.

“Kian absolutely loved receiving his box and the fact that it came from Bluebell Wood makes it all the more special.”

The spring boxes are just the latest example of the ways Bluebell Wood has adapted its care this past year to make sure no families have to go through the pandemic alone- from virtual events and surprise visits from Bluebell Wood ‘elves’ to remote support groups and activity sessions.

The charity is encouraging supporters who would like to donate gifts to the hospice this Easter to avoid sending Easter eggs or chocolate.

Many of the children who visit the hospice are unable to eat chocolate so Bluebell Wood is asking those wanting to donate gifts to instead use the hospice’s Amazon wishlist, which can be found here https://www.bluebellwood.org/faqs/our-amazon-wishlist

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