Local mum appeals for Mother’s Day donations to Oxford children’s hospice
Donna Stone is encouraging people to help other parents in difficult situations
A mum whose daughter passed away at a children’s hospice in Oxford is appealing for people to donate this Mother’s Day to support other families going through similar experiences.
Donna Stone’s daughter Olivia died aged 13 at Helen & Douglas House in April 2020 after being diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour.
Since her death, Donna and her family and friends have raised more than £9,500 for the hospice through fundraising events including concerts, charity collections and a charity single released in Olivia’s memory.
Donna said the hospice provided vital support during one of the most difficult times of her life.
“They just created an absolute safe space for us to be as a family, for me to be a mum,” she said.
“They took that pain away of not worrying about those mundane things, so I could concentrate on being a mum and creating the memories that we did there.”
Olivia was diagnosed in February 2020 at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.
She was later transferred to Helen & Douglas House for end-of-life care in March, shortly before the UK’s first national lockdown.
Despite Olivia being bedbound for much of her stay, Donna said the hospice allowed the family to focus on spending meaningful time together.
“It was just a warm blanket covering us,” she said.
Mother’s Day now brings mixed emotions for Donna, but she says it has become a time to remember Olivia.
“I reflect all the time, if I’m honest,” she said. “My oldest daughter Cailey spoils me and Olivia will always be a part of that day. We always include her in our conversations.”
Donna also has a message for other parents who may find the day particularly difficult.
“Just be kind to yourself,” she said. “Whatever emotion you have is relevant to you. It’s not right or wrong and just know there’s support out there.”
She said raising money for hospices like Helen & Douglas House is essential so they can continue supporting families.
“Fundraising for charities like Helen & Douglas House is absolutely vital,” she said. "Without that they cannot function and they can’t do the incredible work they do.”