Turning Celebration into Compassion: Patrick’s Inspiring Gift

For his 80th birthday, Patrick made a decision that speaks volumes about the kind of person he is. Instead of asking for gifts, he chose to raise money for St Mary’s Hospice – a place at the heart of our community. Thanks to the generosity of his family and friends, Patrick raised an incredible £580 to support the work we do.

At St Mary’s, less than 20% of our funding comes from the government. This means that 8 out of every 10 patients we care for are supported thanks to voluntary donations and fundraising efforts like Patrick’s. It’s people like him – and the communities who stand beside us – who make it possible for us to continue offering expert, compassionate care to local families when they need it most.

Patrick’s story is a reminder of the difference one person’s kindness can make. Here’s what he said.

“I feel so proud to have raised £580 for St Mary’s Hospice. This place holds a special place in my heart because of the incredible people who make it what it is – the staff, the volunteers, and everyone who gives their time and kindness to support families in our community when they need it most.

What makes St Mary’s so remarkable is the way they care for the whole person – not just through palliative care, but also by offering respite and a chance to rest when life feels overwhelming. It’s care that comes wrapped in compassion, dignity, and love.

That’s why I chose to ask for donations instead of presents. To me, it felt far more meaningful to give back to a charity that gives so much to local towns and villages. Every pound raised helps ensure that St Mary’s can keep being there for others, just as they have been for so many already.

My hope is that by sharing my story, others might feel inspired to do the same – to turn a celebration into a chance to support this incredible hospice, and to help keep this care alive for our community.”

Patrick’s generosity shows just how powerful one person’s decision can be in supporting St Mary’s and ensuring we can continue to care for local families when they need us most.

While fundraising today makes a real difference, another meaningful way to support the hospice for the future is by leaving a gift in your will. Even leaving as little as 1% of your estate could help St Mary’s continue to provide the expert, compassionate care that our community depends on – for generations to come.

Patrick’s 80th birthday gift is a beautiful example of love for the community. By choosing to give in your lifetime, or by leaving a legacy for the future, you too can help St Mary’s be there for every patient, every family, every time.