The festive spirit was in full swing on Tuesday evening as staff, their families, local residents and families supported by our current charities of the year, St Luke's Hospice Plymouth and Children's Hospice South West (CHSW) gathered as we turned on this year’s Christmas tree lights at Plumer House.
We were also joined by our Resident Communication Advisors (RCA) who sang carols so wonderfully for the occasion.
This year, the lights were switched on by Dude Sutton, a PCH resident who is being supported by CHSW and his sister, alongside Annabel Roberts, Area Fundraiser at CHSW and Wayne Marshall, New Partnerships Lead at St Luke's.
Dude has a rare and incurable brain condition named 4H Leukodystrophy, a disease that causes the white matter in his brain to deteriorate, leading to the loss of abilities like walking, talking and even smiling.
CHSW has been a lifeline for Dude, offering much needed respite for the family while also providing care and support for his siblings. They have been there in the most challenging moments, ensuring that Dude and his family never feel alone, and offering a sense of normality and joy during an incredibly difficult journey.
The crowd buzzed with excitement as the eagerly anticipated countdown began. Dude pressed the giant plunger, lighting up our Christmas conifer which has become a regular feature for those who pass Plumer House.
Over the festive period, PCH is hosting a variety of events and fundraisers to help staff get into the jolly spirit and raise money for charity. We are supporting Christmas Jumper Day on Thursday 11 December to raise money for Save the Children.
PCH is also supporting Provide Devon's winter fundraiser appeal by hosting a Christmas Foodbank Donation Week on Monday 15 December - Friday 19 December.
