STEPHANIE Hirst has launched a new campaign which is close to her heart.
The radio and TV presenter has kicked off Barnsley Hospice’s comfort and care campaign, which aims to raise approximately £200,000 to refurbish the hospice’s ten inpatient rooms to luxury standard.
The cause is special to Stephanie as her mother Joyce spent two weeks at the hospice before her death, from pancreatic cancer, in 2013.
Stephanie said: “Barnsley Hospice has a special place in my heart and I’m proud to be helping them launch this campaign. My mum received outstanding care during her time at the hospice and for that I’ll always be grateful.
“I’m hoping the people of Barnsley will join me in getting behind this appeal, which will make a huge difference to patients and their families.”
The planned improvements would include new specialist beds, furniture, flooring and decor and will help patients and families feel more comfortable during their stay.
The Morrisons Foundation, a charity set up by the Bradford-based supermarket chain, has already pledged £300,000 to the project. It will be the first time the rooms have been refurbished.
Barnsley Hospice chief executive Julie Ferry said: “When patients come into the hospice they and their families are often unsure what to expect. Having a more comfortable and relaxed environment can help them to feel more at home and have a positive impact on their care.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Morrisons Foundation for their extremely generous pledge and we now need the Barnsley community to support the Comfort and Care campaign to help us raise the rest.”
Sam Burden, Morrisons Foundation specialist, said: “We support charities which make a positive difference in local communities and we know that Barnsley Hospice does just that. We’re delighted to be supporting their care appeal which will make a real difference to patients and their families during difficult times.”
A crowdfunding page has been set up to encourage donations to the Comfort and Care campaign. Find it here.
