Sisters show support for Leeds hospice in memory of their mother

TWO sisters who lost their mother in tragic circumstances are asking people in Leeds to help raise money for the hospice that cared for her during her final days.
Jennifer Leonard and Sarah Wilkinson with their mother Glynis.Jennifer Leonard and Sarah Wilkinson with their mother Glynis.
Jennifer Leonard and Sarah Wilkinson with their mother Glynis.

Jennifer Leonard, 27, and Sarah Wilkinson, 35, are supporting the Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice Mother’s Day appeal in memory of their mother Glynis, who died two years ago after battling lung and bone cancer.

Jennifer said: “For three nights we stayed by her side in the hospice, chatting and talking about everything you could think of. The time at Wheatfields will always stay with me, and I look back now and smile.

“It felt like mum was in the right place.

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“The friendly smile and the attention from the staff who could not do enough for mum and our family immediately put me at ease.

“It allowed the family to be there and spend those last few precious days with her, which was priceless.”

Speaking about Mother’s Day, she added: “It is a weird little day. It’s very difficult.

“I would give anything for just one more day with my mum.

“Then I remind myself that I got to spend 25 years with this wonderful woman and I end up with the biggest smile on my face.”

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The hospice in Headingley provides free care for more than 1,000 people living with life-limiting conditions, but it costs £11,000 every day to keep the doors open.

In a bid to boost funds, the hospice is launching a new fundraising campaign throughout February until Mother’s Day.

Sara Novara, from the hospice, said: “We want to be here for every family who needs us at such difficult times.

“Right now, with the help of YEP readers, we can give families the care and emotional support they need.”

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To make a donation, visit www.sueryder.org/wheatfields/mothers or call 0113 203 3373.

* £14 could pay for an hour of care.

* £35 could pay for a complementary therapy session helping to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, breathlessness, pain and feeling sick

* £50 can pay for one session of bereavement counselling for someone struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one.

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