A kind hearted charity worker from the Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP), was on a Secret Santa mission to give families impacted by cancer in County Durham festive fun experiences and gifts.
Paula Spark, a Macmillan Joining the Dots Facilitator covering the South West Durham area, spread Christmas cheer with uplifting presents and toys through working in partnership with inspirational charity The Angel Trust.
Carol Gaskarth, Chief Executive of PCP, said: “Paula got in touch with The Angel Trust to organise a festive break to Ramside Treehouse in Durham for the Rickaby family. Stephen Rickaby is currently awaiting a stem cell transplant and Paula recognised the difference a break would make for his family, including his wife, Anna, and their children, Harley, Jessie and Skylar.
“The family thought it was amazing and could not believe the kindness of The Angel Trust and Joining the Dots. Paula went over and above to support the family and I am extremely proud of her passion and enthusiasm for helping others.”
Anne Rickaby, Stephen’s wife, said: “Paula thank you so much for organising the Treehouse break it was a much needed boost to us all, we cannot believe the kindness people have shown us, it was so magical we can’t thank you all enough.”
The Joining the Dots team would like to thank the Angel Trust for their generosity in making this all possible for families this Christmas.
Macmillan Cancer Support estimate there are 3 million people living with cancer in the UK, with this rising to nearly 3.5 million by 2025, 4 million by 2030, and 5.3 million by 2040. The Joining the Dots service in County Durham supports people aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with cancer, they also support friends, carers and relatives of those with a cancer diagnosis.
To get in touch with the Joining the Dots team, visit: www.facebook.com/JTDDurham
Visit the PCP’s social media channels. PCP’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/PCPandCentre, Twitter: @PioneeringCare and Instagram: @PioneeringCare
If you would like to find out more about PCP generally, or to support our work, please contact: Jenny Lee, Senior Marketing & Media Officer: jenny.lee@pcp.uk.net