Thanks for visiting Alice's 18th Birthday page. 

We have been asked by quite a few people, how they can mark the occasion of Alice's 18th Birthday, on 15th December.  Of course, we'd rather have our daughter here and be buying gifts for her. Sadly, we can't ever do that again. 

So, we thought it would be good to fundraise for "The Rainbow Trust Children's Charity", a charity who were very supportive of us while Alice was poorly. Every week or two for four solid years, our support worker, 'Pink' Marlene, visited and subjected herself to everything from cooking and wii competitions to dog shows and (freezing cold) pool dips. If the girls wanted to do it, Marlene found a way. Her visits gave the girls a third party to chat with and also gave me a few hours to catch up on things outside of the home. If Alice was in hospital, Marlene would visit and I would take the opportunity to go and have a shower and a sleep. Alice loved Marlene's slightly batty character and Marlene adored her in return. It wasn't rocket science, and yet they were the ONLY charity that supported us in this way. 

If I was in hospital with Alice and we were stuck, Marlene would collect Milly from school and bring her home for tea, waiting with her until Simon got in from work. She took the role of a doting Aunt and I never once worried about Milly when she was in her care. Some of the stories had me in stitches; it was wonderful knowing that Milly was not only cared for, but having a great time too. 

As we move towards the end of our first year without Alice, Marlene continues to support us. There appears to be no follow up or support for bereaved parents in our area and so Marlene's continued presence in our lives is appreciated. With no ridiculous hoops to jump through in order to qualify, this a charity who are REALLY THERE FOR YOU.

Please help The Rainbow Trust continue to support families like ours. Send a donation in lieu of a 18th card or gift, think of this page as Alice's online birthday wishes ... and write your message 'To Alice' with love. 

And then hope that you are never in the position to need their help.