Blythe House Hospice launch their 'Sunflower Memories' appeal

Dedicate a flower in memory of someone you love to support local hospice care. 

Blythe House Hospice is inviting local people to take part in its heartfelt ‘Sunflower Memories’ appeal - a unique opportunity to celebrate the life of someone special while supporting vital hospice care across the High Peak, Derbyshire Dales and Northeast Derbyshire. 

Throughout June, the hospice will be planting vibrant sunflower plaques in the garden at its Chapel-en-le-Frith base. Each sunflower will bear the name of someone being lovingly remembered, with dedications made in return for a donation to help fund the charity’s compassionate end-of-life care. 

Rachel Bainbridge has dedicated a sunflower in memory of her beloved mum, Marion, from Chapel-en-le-Frith. Sharing her story, Rachel explained: “Mum was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2022 and was referred to Blythe House for medical appointments and counselling to help her come to terms with her diagnosis. 

“In early 2023, Mum became very poorly. She wanted to be cared for at home so our whole family could be together. We’re a big family - her wish was to have everyone around her; she loved the chatter and the noise.” 

The Hospice at Home and Roaming Car teams provided round-the-clock support to make Marion’s wish a reality.

Rachel said: “They were just incredible. Having that support right on our doorstep, just a phone call away, was invaluable. The team became an extension of our family, treating Mum with dignity, compassion and respect. 

“Mum died in the middle of the night, and the carer gently woke us, saying, “You need to come downstairs now.” We were able to be with her, hold her hand, and speak to her as she died - just as she had wished. 

“Sunflowers were Mum’s favourite flower and played a central role in her funeral. I am proud to plant a sunflower in memory of my beloved mum and to help raise vital funds for Blythe House Hospice.

The hospice made it possible for Mum’s final wish to come true – to die at home, surrounded by her family – and for that, we will be eternally grateful.’ 

All dedications will be displayed in the hospice garden throughout June. A special remembrance service, open to anyone to attend, will also take place at 11am on Saturday June 28, where the names of loved ones will be read aloud by the hospice team. 

To dedicate a sunflower or for more information, click here.