St Columba’s Christmas appeal raises tens of thousands for hospice

The St Columba’s Hospice Care Light up a Life appeal which involves placing lights on the 30 feet tall Christmas tree in Charlotte Square in memory of loved ones has raised £112,500 for the hospice.

This is the biggest fundraiser of the year for St Columba’s and all the funds raised help to provide the specialist care for those with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

Despite strong winds and rain, around 500 people attended the lighting ceremony in December, where the tree was lit by Amy and Katie, both aged 5. The Edinburgh Brass Band also performed before and after the ceremony.

The crowd was also addressed by Mandy Murray, the Hospice at Home Lead, who spoke about the Hospice’s new ‘Virtual Ward’ service, the first of its kind in Scotland. The new service allows patients to receive the same levels of care and attention as they would on a Hospice ward, whilst staying at home.

Jon Heggie, Director of Income Generation for St Columba’s Hospice Care, said: “The support from our local community for this appeal has been truly remarkable, and we are delighted to announce this incredible fundraising total. Each contribution will directly contribute to providing essential care and support to more families at the times where it is most needed. We’d like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who has supported the appeal.”