Birthday boy makes it a big day for charity

Little Archie Greer held a party in Sixmile Leisure Centre. However, instead of asking for presents he asked for charity donations in memory of his great-grandmother.

Just five weeks before his birthday, Archie’s great-granny Mary sadly passed away at home under the care of the Northern Ireland Hospice at Home service.

A loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Mary lived for her family and shared a special bond with all her great grandchildren.

Archie’s parents Paul and Kirstyn Greer wanted to ensure that Mary was still very much at the heart of his fourth birthday celebrations.

With Archie in agreement, they decided to request family and friends to make a donation to Hospice in lieu of a birthday present.

Speaking about Archie’s selfless choice, mum Kirstyn said: “Northern Ireland Hospice looked after granny so well and they were there for us every step of the way.

“Having had first-hand experience of the immense difference hospice care makes, we were inspired to raise funds to help other local patients.

“Archie and his great granny Mary had a very special bond and he was so happy that so much had been raised in her memory. We are all devastated by her loss but raising £600 from Archie’s party has enabled us to do something positive for Hospice in her memory”.

Sharon Gorman, donor development officer at Northern Ireland Hospice added: “We were really touched when Kirstyn contacted us about Archie’s birthday plans particularly as Mary had just recently passed away.

“It was extremely generous of them to think of us at this tragic time and their support is really appreciated. Without support from the local community and families like Mary’s, Hospice simply couldn’t continue to provide the unique care which local families need.

“We hope that it brings the whole family a little comfort to know that their substantial donation will enable us to fund six nights of nursing care at home”.

If you are interested in finding out more on “Giving in celebration”, please call Sharon Gorman on 028 9078 1836 or visit www.nihospice.org