Letter: Thank you to the people of Whitby

The annual appeal, which launched at the end of February, has seen volunteers out in force across Yorkshire, to encourage people to make a donation and wear the charity’s daffodil pin to help Marie Curie nurses to continue giving care and support to people living with a terminal illness in their own homes.

The charity would like to thank supporters throughout Whitby, including the local Whitby fundraising group, who have donated their time and money.

Collectively, they have so far helped raise a staggering £1,453.96 through street and supermarket collections.

This total will continue to rise over the coming month as daffodil boxes are counted and banked from different sites in the area and supporters send in money raised at daffodil-themed events.

Jennifer Carmichael, community fundraiser for North Yorkshire said: “The Great Daffodil Appeal is Marie Curie’s biggest annual fundraiser and we would like to say a huge thank you to everyone in Whitby for getting behind the daffodil, by donating or by being one of our amazing volunteers.

"By supporting the appeal and helping to raise vital funds, you’re bringing care and support to people living with a terminal illness as well as peace of mind and a chance to rest for their families.”

Marie Curie nurses and healthcare assistants deliver full shifts of nursing care overnight (from 10pm until 7am) or flexible shorter visits during the day or evening to help patients remain in their own homes.

They are experienced in caring for people with terminal illnesses and can help them cope with their symptoms such as nausea, pain or anxiety.

They also offer advice and emotional support to family members and carers.

Hilary Schuller, senior nurse, said “Working in palliative care is immensely rewarding and Marie Curie is dedicated to improving end of life care in the community. I meet some amazing people and am proud to be able to nurse and support patients in the comfort of their own home.

"A lot of people fear dying in hospitals and they don’t want to be in a strange place. I believe firmly that everyone should have the choice of where they want to spend their final days. It’s a real honour to be there at the end of someone’s life – you feel a strong sense that you are doing good.”

Jennifer Carmichael,

community fundraiser,

Marie Curie