This summer, we brought magic and wonder to our Helen & Douglas House families. For the first time ever, our annual summer party was hosted outside of the hospice, transforming Chandlings Prep School in Oxford into a vibrant circus bursting with joy and laughter.
The day was nothing short of spectacular. With a lively circus theme, the event featured everything from a big top tent to colourful face painting, delicious cakes, inflatable games and adorable animals that the children loved meeting. There were lots of fun games and activities around the grounds, ensuring that every child and family member found something to enjoy.
Creating magical memories together
The party was more than just an afternoon of magic. It was an opportunity for families to create joyful memories together, away from the clinical environment of the hospice. It was a fantastic atmosphere where the children and their families immersed themselves in the activities. Seeing the children’s faces light up with smiles and hearing their laughter was truly heartwarming. It gave families the opportunity to meet others and share the memories of the day together.
Outside the hospice setting
Hosting this event outside the hospice offered families a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to relax, enjoy each other’s company and make happy memories. It was a day where the challenges of caring for a child with an illness were momentarily set aside, providing them with a chance to enjoy the simple pleasures of playing games, enjoying sweet treats, and connecting with other families facing similar challenges.
Thank you
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made this day possible. We would like to thank:
- Morrisons & Together for Short Lives Partnership: for funding the big top tent.
- Chandlings Prep School: for the beautiful grounds that hosted our event.
- Spread a Smile: for the face painter, singer, bubble performer, and Lola’s Cupcakes.
- Ollie and Friends: for Teddy Edward, the adorable pony who stole everyone’s hearts.
- Alec’s Angels & Ultimate Activity Camps: for providing fantastic games and entertainment.
- Mr NiceCream: for treating everyone to delicious ice cream.
- Circus Sensible: for adding that perfect circus flair.
- Our Play Team: for organising such a magical day.
- Helen, our Volunteer Photographer: for capturing moments of joy.
- Our incredible families: for joining us and making the day truly special.
Days like these are so important for the families who come to Helen & Douglas House, giving them much needed respite from a clinical setting.
We look forward to bringing more smiles and laughter to the children and families we support in the future. We can’t wait to see what our next adventure together will bring!
Take a look at some photos from our summer party…
