Stockport hospice launches annual Forget-Me-Not appeal

Hundreds of people from across Greater Manchester are expected to remember their loved ones as part of an annual appeal in support of Stockport-based charity, St Ann’s Hospice. 

The Forget-Me-Not Appeal gives people the chance to receive a special keepsake in honour of their loved one, and if they wish, to create an online dedication in the hospice’s Memory Meadow, in the form of a Forget-me-not flower or iconic Manchester bee.   

Dedications are made alongside a donation to St Ann’s, with money raised helping the front-line doctors and nurses to continue providing specialist care to local patients. 

Eamonn O’Neal (pictured in the hospice garden), Chief Executive of St Ann’s, explained:

Our annual Forget-Me-Not appeal is incredibly important to us and our supporters, as we honour the lives of those who sadly are no longer with us, and also raise vital funds for the hospice. 

“It’s obviously a very challenging time for everyone, and the appeal seems particularly poignant this year.  With so many of our fundraising events cancelled, and pressures on our clinical staff to ensure they can continue to provide care to patients at this difficult time, it’s hugely appreciated if people are able to take part in Forget-me-not this year.   

“It’s always extremely moving to see so many individuals supporting our patients by joining the appeal – some with a connection to the hospice, and others who don’t have a connection but want to celebrate the life of someone special or someone they can’t be with, whilst helping a local cause.” 

The charity, which operates from three sites in Heald Green, Little Hulton, and the Neil Cliffe Centre in Wythenshawe Hospital cares for thousands of patients every year with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.  The specialist team provides care not just from its hospice sites, but also via a range of community and outreach services.