A banner showing an illustration of a dandelion blowing in the wind, as well as a dandelion appeal sculpture. Wording reads: Big thanks to everyone who supported our appeal!

Acorns Dandelion Appeal

This summer we were proud to launch our Dandelion Appeal giving individuals the opportunity to dedicate a dandelion sculpture to a special loved one.

All the dandelion sculptures were then planted in our special Garden of Wishes, at Acorns for the Three Counties, in Worcester – each dedicated to someone who is loved and missed. On  Saturday 9th September we hosted a special event in the garden, welcoming those who had dedicated a dandelion. Each dandelion was then carefully packaged and posted out to individuals so they could display in their own garden and proudly present the love and memories of the person it was dedicated to.

The dandelions are limited editions, and dedications have now come to an end. We are pleased to say that we will be launching a new sculpture installation in 2024.

If you would still like to make a cash donation to our Summer Dandelion Appeal, we would very much welcome your support. Your donations will help us provide specialist care to local children and their families.

MAKE A DONATION

Garden of Wishes event

Thank you to everyone who dedicated, donated, and attended our Garden of Wishes for the Dandelion appeal. Check out some lovely photos from the day.

Garden of wishes event sign
Garden of Wishes attendees.
Garden of wishes event attendees looking at the dedications hanging on the tree.
Garden of wishes event attendees chatting in the garden.
Garden of wishes event attendees chatting under the awning.
A young Garden of Wishes attendee being led by their parent through the garden.
Garden of wishes event displaying hanging dedications.
Garden of wishes event attendees looking through the hanging dedications.
Garden of Wishes event with a cat resting amongst the dandelions.
Garden of wishes event attendees reviewing the hanging dedications.
Luca's sibling posing with their dandelion in the Garden of Wishes.
Trevor Johnson, Acorns CEO, poses with Luca's family and their bespoke dandelion sculpture.
Garden of wishes welcome Luca's family at the opening ceremony.
Garden of wishes dedications hanging from a few trees.

How your Dandelion helped local families

Facing the death of a child is possibly the hardest thing a parent can go through. Thank you to those who dedicated a Dandelion to our appeal. You ensured we can be there every step of the way, giving them the support they need during that most difficult time.

“When we look back at those final few days we spent at Acorns with Luca, we realise just how eternally grateful we are to them for the support they gave us.

We had someone there every step of the way, gently guiding us through the most difficult time. I can’t even begin to imagine what it would have been like without them.”

– Tony, Luca’s dad

A little boy is held in his dad's arms. They are looking at each other. The boy has a tube going to his nose

Some frequently asked questions

How big is the Dandelion and what is it made of?

The Dandelions are 15cm wide (head) and 55cm tall. They are made from high-quality 1.5mm steel with solid bar stakes and are powder coated for a smooth finish. They are handmade by a family-run business in Hampshire exclusively for Acorns.

Will my Dandelion be weatherproof?

Dandelions will naturally rust over time when exposed to the elements.

How much is a Dandelion?

Each Dandelion has a suggested donation of £25, this includes the cost of postage.

How can I dedicate a Dandelion?

You can dedicate a flower online by completing the dedication form below. If you would like to dedicate more than one Dandelion, please call our Supporter Services team on 01564 825 037 or email supporter.services@acorns.org.uk.

Can I dedicate more than one Dandelion?

Yes of course you can, just complete the dedication form for each loved one you wish to remember. Alternatively you can call our Supporter Services team on 01564 825 037 or email supporter.services@acorns.org.uk.

Will my Dandelion be labelled with my loved ones name?

No, however if you send in a message alongside your Dandelion order, these will be displayed in the Garden of Wishes viewing moment.

When will I receive my Dandelion?

All Dandelions will be displayed in the Garden of Wishes on 9 September 2023 at the Acorns hospice in Worcester.

Dandelions will then be carefully packaged and posted out in the following two weeks. Please note Dandelions will not fit through a standard letterbox.

Can I collect my Dandelion instead?

Currently collection will not be available. Dandelions will be carefully packaged and posted to you and the cost of this is covered in your donation.

Can I view the Dandelions in the Garden of Wishes?

**Tickets for the Garden of Wishes are now closed**

An exclusive viewing moment for the Garden of Wishes will take place on 9 September 2023 at the Acorns hospice in Worcester between 11am and 4pm (bookable hourly slots).

We will welcome you to our peaceful gardens to view your Dandelion and read the handwritten messages of love. We invite you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and have a moment of reflection to remember your loved one.

We will have light refreshments available so that you and your guests can make the most of this special time together.

If you are interested in attending, please tick the relevant box when you dedicate your Dandelion using the form below.

If you have any other questions, please call our Supporter Services team on 01564 825 037 or email supporter.services@acorns.org.uk.

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