February 2023 – half-term and Covid strikes again
Thanks to the February 2023 half-term break, slightly fewer people than usual were able to visit The Mix for its usual excellent breakfast. Hence, there were 11 people there, with another five online via Zoom. Among the Zoom attendees was Lee Graham of St Nicholas Hospice, the month’s guest speaker, who was obliged to attend remotely, having tested positive for Covid the day before.
Fundraising for St Nic’s resumes with a vengeance this year
Lee explained that although the hospice receives an NHS grant, it has to raise £12,000 per day to be able to offer its services. The grant covers just one-fifth of the income the hospice needs.
Among its many services, there is also included:
- an area community nursing team
- an in-patient unit with ten beds
- carers’ support
- a palliative care team
- an independent living team
- a psychiatric care team for patients and their families.
For the previous two years, various Covid lockdowns had disrupted the fundraising programme, although, for several years, Lee had been a volunteer fundraiser using rock concerts at the Apex. Because of the nature of its work, hospice workers regularly test for Covid, hence Lee’s presence via Zoom.
This year, however, the fundraising programme is back, and its biggest event, as always, is the Girls’ Night Out, a walk that will take place later in the year.
In March, there will be a Swim for St Nic’s event organised by the Bury St Edmunds Rotary. Later in the month will come Taken, when business leaders will be captured, and their employees will follow a treasure trail of clues in an effort to raise £1000 ransom money to free their bosses.
In April, people will be encouraged to run a marathon for St Nic’s. Also, in August, there will be an opportunity to skydive at Beccles Airfield to raise money.
Other events will include Hidden Gardens on display and a cycle ride covering various distances.
The hospice also has a supporters’ club whose members either donate or commit to raising £300 to join.
For the future
Chairman Colin Tapscott is always happy to receive any suggestions for what members want to see the Chamber doing in the future. Please send your ideas (and your wish lists) to [email protected].
Dates for your diary:
Please check the website in case of any last-minute changes.
| March Coffee | March Breakfast |
| West View IT & Softwood Self Publishing, Wharfside House Prentice Road Stowmarket | At The Mix or on Zoom |
| Friday, March 3 | Friday, March 17 |
| 10.00 am | 6.45 am in person; 7.30 am on Zoom |
For more information contact Keely Taylor
by phone: 01449 770965 or e-mail: [email protected].
Anyone who has a story to publicise or you’re a Member who hasn’t yet been featured in a Member Spotlight on the website, please contact publicity officer, Alison Withers: [email protected].
