Teddy joins hospice's Christmas celebrations

Jeff Howe / Penarth Camera Club

Wales rugby star Teddy Williams dropped in on Marie Curie's Penarth hospice to help them celebrate Christmas.

The Cardiff lock will captain his side for the first time this weekend when they begin their European Challenge Cup campaign against Lyon.

But before travelling to France with the squad, Teddy paid a special visit to meet hospice staff, who held a Christmas fayre in their Wellbeing and Support Hub on Thursday.

His own father, Owain, was cared for by the charity before he passed away in September 2021.

Teddy said: "After experiencing how much amazing work Marie Curie and other charities do, I was delighted to be asked to come and join in with the festivities."

"Seeing how much they do to support people at the end of life, and their families, was inspiring and reminded me of the excellent support we had from the nurses who would visit Dad at home."

"I wish all the staff and volunteers at Marie Curie – and those they are caring for and supporting – joy and best wishes this festive season."

Teddy helped to switch on the hospice's Christmas lights at the end of a full, festive day of activities, crafts and entertainment - which included live performances from local singers True Harmony and the Penarth Community Choir.

Visitors were also encouraged to add a memory star to the Christmas tree, while the windows to the Bridgeman Road hospice were decorated with festive scenes.

 

Hannah Leckie, a community fundraiser at Marie Curie, said: "A huge thank you to Teddy for coming along to visit our hospice – we were thrilled to welcome him to meet our staff and volunteers."

"We also appreciate his support in counting down the turning on the Christmas lights and drawing the raffle. We are comforted to know he speaks so highly of the support his late father received from our hospice at home team."

"Marie Curie believes everyone should have expert care and support at the end of life, free from unnecessary pain, and have the dignity and respect they deserve, whatever their illness."

"By holding a festive fundraiser for Marie Curie, you can help bring care, comfort and joy to even more people living with a terminal illness, at home, in our hospices, or over the phone."

Another Marie Curie fundraiser takes place next Thursday at 7pm with a carol concert at the Penarth Methodist Church, hosted by spiritual care co-ordinator Gareth Powell and supported by Rock Choir.

Meanwhile, Marie Curie's information and support line is extending its opening hours over the festive season - from 10am to 4pm on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve and from 10am to 2pm on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

If you need support during the holiday period, call 0800 090 2309.

Do you have a story to share? Email News@broradio.fm 

 

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