A few years ago I covered my tree in the angels of stars who had died, because we seemed to have lost so many that year. I raised lots of cash for Macmillan cancer, and it's become a running event. Each year as Christmas draws near, people start wondering if I'll do my tree.
Over many years my family, as have many others, has been touched, beaten and changed by cancer. Bowel cancer in particular, has stolen too many people we love. My Father's sister and brother both died in the 90s and early 00s. My Mother's sister survived bowel cancer in 2016. 2 years ago my own brother was struck with the disease and we are very lucky we still have him. Everyone in the family has regular colonoscopies and supports research to try to help others in future.
This year has been particularly hard and in September, my Aunt was told her cancer had returned and will not be curable. A incredible character, she has played a huge part in my upbringing and I am desperate to make sure she has the Christmas to end all Christmases as she is cared for by her family.
She's an artist, and since I was big enough to speak, I have made a gingerbread house with her each Christmas, now with my young nieces too. She may not be well enough to make one this year, but the least I can do is to try to do something to help other people who are touched by this disease. So out comes the dead celebritree once again, in hope we can raise some pennies and give me a good purpose to work towards. Who knows, maybe we'll do the gingerbread house to end all gingerbread houses too.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
More information about this event
Name: Dead celebritree
Date: 30th November 2019
Fundraising target: £1000
Donate