Visitors to the Kingsley Café, Eynsham were treated to a day of live music at the Rockin’ for ROSY* fundraiser in September. 

The event showcased a range of local Oxfordshire musicians including Rockin’ Shop, whose drummer, Steve, was one of the event organisers alongside his sister, Carol. A tombola, brimming with prizes, was also a popular attraction during the day.

Steve and Carol have been long-time supporters of our Respite for Oxfordshire’s Sick Youngsters Appeal and were thrilled that Rockin’ for ROSY not only raised further awareness of our appeal, and of the vital respite service it funds for local families, but that the event also raised an amazing £1,250!

“The bands played their hearts out… a very successful day all round.”

But that’s not all... in the months running up to the music event, Carol became her mother’s full-time carer. During this time, she found herself making and selling a range of beautiful homemade knitted characters (including her very popular ‘Pigs in Blankets’ chocolate orange covers and festive-themed designs!), baby jackets and blankets.

Her wonderful creations raised a staggering £1,113, which she also chose to donate to ROSY.

Laura Breakwell, from the Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust Community Nursing Service, was pleased to be able to receive the cheque from Carol on the day on behalf of Oxford Health Charity. She also gave a brief talk about ROSY and the invaluable support families receive from the ROSY care team, funded by our Oxford Health Charity appeal.

“Providing respite care for the families on the caseload who have a baby, child or young person with complex and/or life limiting illnesses, enables them to have a well-deserved break to regroup and recharge. It also allows families with other children to take time out and spend valuable time with them, knowing that they can feel confident that the staff member caring for their child knows all their child’s needs…”

“The child receiving the care is able to have some sensory and play time as well as do activities such as crafts or go for a walk, enabling them to have variety of experiences during these sessions. This service is invaluable, and I wish we were able to provide respite care to more families.” 

Our deepest thanks to Carol, Steve and their team of amazing helpers for their time, efforts and support for our ROSY Appeal. Their combined donation of over £2,360 will have a substantial impact on the children and families receiving care from our ROSY nurses and healthcare visitors.

*Our ROSY Appeal is dedicated to delivering additional respite care to Oxfordshire's terminally ill, acute and chronically sick children, who are supported in their own homes. To find out more, or to make a donation, please visit our appeal page here.