Mum raises £6,500 from Star Ball Held in Memory of Son

MaryAbrahamschequeBradley Stoke Mum, Mary Abrahams has raised £6,500 for Children s Hospice South West (CHSW), the charity which supported her late son, Ryan who died on 23 February 2010 (aged 14). Mary held a Star Ball in October to raise funds for the charity and mark what would have been Ryan s eighteenth birthday. This is the third Star Ball which Mary has held in memory of Ryan.

Ryan, who was born with brittle bones and spinal muscular atrophy, made regular respite visits with his family to CHSW s Charlton Farm hospice near Wraxall. The family has remained in close contact with the charity since Ryan s death.

The ball, which was held at Tortworth Court, had a star theme with six giant inflatable stars hanging from the ceiling above the dance floor. The night consisted of a three course dinner, disco and auction. Mary, who wore a red dress as Ryan was a Manchester United fan, made a speech to thank friends and family for their continued support. Eddie Farwell, CHSW s co-founder and Chief Executive, who attended the event talked about the charity s Charlton Farm hospice.

Mary, from Bradley Stoke, talks more about this poignant time for the family and why they wanted to support CHSW: “As any parent knows this day should have been a huge day celebrating Ryan s 18th. As he is no longer with us, I still wanted a celebration of his life with family and friends.

As we approach the 4th anniversary of my son Ryan’s passing, or the day he got his wings, I feel inspired to raise much needed funds for the hospice. It helps me to thank them for their amazing support and how they helped me, my husband, and Ryan’s brother Warren through our darkest time.

Through the star ball in October I raised £6,500.00 for CHSW and this takes the goal I have raised so far for local charities to £34,000.00. I feel proud as this is in memory of Ryan and I want his memory to live on. Love you my little star Ryan ”

Tamara Downes, CHSW Community Fundraiser said: “We are honoured that Mary chose to mark Ryan s birthday in this way. The event was a fitting tribute to a very special teenager. We re hugely grateful for Mary s tireless fundraising efforts. The money we receive from Government is not guaranteed each year, therefore fundraising is crucial to us being able to continue supporting families like Mary s. ”

Tags: Back to news