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Derian House Children's Hospice charity appeal

17.02.10

Being at the heart of the community and supporting the local residents are two principles MedicX Pharmacy feels passionate about. Since the beginning of the 2009, the team at MedicX Pharmacy Chorley have lived these values by adopting the Derian House Children's Hospice as the official MedicX Pharmacy Chorley charity appeal.

Derian House is a uniquely focused charity for the area through their provision of specialist  care for terminally ill children, as well as a offering a reassuring framework of emotional support for the parents and family. Time is precious for the children treated at Derian House and the aim is to make the most of every moment..  Through the use of a holistic style of play, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, massage and relaxation techniques as much fun and laughter as possible are packed into every single day.

The hospice has a big catchment area extending from as far as Carlisle in the north to Manchester in the south and currently supports 200 families with bed facilities for up to nine children. 

However, due to demand of the services provided by the dedicated team, funds are desperately needed to build a new wing that would provide a suitable environment for adolescents.  Less than 10% of funding comes from official sources, which keeps the centre open for just nine out of 52 weeks a year.  This year it will cost more than £1.8 million to provide the essential care and support needed.

It was with this in mind that the Chorley pharmacy team hosted a book sale in December to increase the small amount of money they had collected in the charity box over the year.

Each member of staff brought in books ranging from 'How to Cook Risotto' to Maeve Binchy, to books on natural medicine.  The £1 price tag attracted great interest from their customers and by the end of the month only a few books were left.  The money collected in the charity box came to a total of £200, which was then generously matched by the MedicX Pharmacy Central Team.

Elizabeth Baggs, one of the Clinical Lead Pharmacists from MedicX Pharmacy Chorley commented that she felt privileged that she was able to visit Derian House and experience the special atmosphere  when she handed over the £400 cheque to the delighted staff.

For more information on this charity or to make further donations please visit www.derianhouse.co.uk or telephone 01257 271271.

Derian House Children's Hospice

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