In February 2021 we lost my wonderful Grandpa, Chris Rose, after his battle with cancer.

During his last couple of years he was looked after by the incredible staff at Freda Gunton Lodge (FGL) who provided a welcoming support for him. He created many friendships amongst the staff and residents and made a great impression, whether this be his distinct ability to misplace his glasses (!) or his attentive compassion.

Some of my fondest memories of our last few years together were facilitated by the staff at FGL. Despite covid restrictions (and the wet weather), the staff helped us organise many a socially distanced gathering, letting us have some much needed catch ups and covid safe interactions. This made a great difference to our whole family during such a difficult time.

To thank FGL for the support they gave my grandpa, I am raising money to establish, decorate and furnish a visitor room, called the ‘Rose’ room in Grandpa's memory. Your donation, however small (or large) will be greatly appreciated in making a comfortable and private space for residents to enjoy time with their families, as well as somewhere to take part in the range of activities offered each week.

I will be running the Royal Parks Half Marathon on 9th October 2022 in order to fundraise for the Rose Room.

I will be posting updates on here showing the progress of my fundraising and development of the Rose Room. Thank you for your support.

To find out more about Balkerne Gardens and Freda Gunton Lodge please click this link: https://www.balkernegardens.org.uk/