Spring has seen an outpouring of community spirit across the Midlands, with local football clubs Walsall FC, Solihull Moors, and Aston Villa championing our work.

Through a series of matchday takeovers, these clubs didn’t just deliver thrilling football action; they provided a powerful platform for Acorns to connect with over 50,000 passionate fans. The result? A staggering £10,000 raised – a sum that will make a very real difference, enabling us to provide the care, love and comfort families facing the unimaginable desperately need.

The secret ingredient to these successful takeovers? Our amazing army of Public Collection volunteers who, armed with a smile and a bucket, make these days a resounding success. And it wasn’t all hard work – plenty of fun was had along the way!

Public Collection volunteer experience

We caught up with some of our newest Public Collection volunteer recruits to hear about their experiences, and Katy Chesters, the Assistant Headteacher at St Thomas More Catholic School in Willenhall, perfectly captured the spirit of the Walsall FC takeover day for her students: 

“This was our first opportunity volunteering for Acorns and what an experience it was!” Katy said. “Acorns has been selected as one the charities our Parish will support this year and when our Sixth Form spotted the chance to fundraise at a local Walsall FC game this seemed perfect. 

Alex the Acorns and an Acorns Public Collection volunteer at a football ground.
Two Acorns volunteers cheering on players during a football match.

“It was a fantastic day from start to finish.  We were cared for and looked after by all the team of staff from Acorns, the stewards at the game; and the fans from both sides were amazing in their support and contributions.

“In all we found this a most humbling experience, knowing that our efforts have made, in some way, the lives of families of those coping with illness in our local community more bearable. 

“Without doubt St Thomas More Catholic School will be signing up for further events and doing all we can to support this wonderful charity.” 

We’re so grateful to Katy’s team for giving up their time to help us to raise vital funds for our hospices.  

Get involved in volunteering

At Acorns, we’re always on the lookout for new, enthusiastic volunteers to join our fun and impactful collections and Community Giving Events. From the roar of sporting events to the friendly atmosphere of community fairs, and the everyday bustle of supermarkets and garden centres, there’s a whole host of opportunities to get involved with across the Midlands. 

No prior experience is necessary – just a smile! If you’d like to come join one of our fun events and help us change lives, please take a look at our upcoming opportunities. Your gift of time could be the next game-changer for Acorns! 

Register your interest

It was an exciting day for Harborne residents and book lovers alike last Friday (28 March) as Acorns Children’s Hospice opened its brand-new superstore – complete with its very own library boasting 6,000 secondhand books.

Shoppers at the official opening discovered a library of possibilities, with the new 13,000 square-foot store offering a wide range of quality pre-loved homeware, furniture and electronic goods alongside clothes, toys and books – all at bargain prices.

The Harborne shop is the charity’s sixth superstore and its largest to date, helping to raise crucial funds for local children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and support for their families.

Gary Pettit, Retail Director at Acorns, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to open our newest superstore in Harborne, bringing a fantastic selection of pre-loved items to the local community.

“This is more than just a shop – it’s a place where people can come together, find great bargains and support a truly important cause.”

Thank You wall of photos of Acorns children and families
Shelves stocked with books surrounding a small reading seating area

One of the standout features of the new superstore is its one-of-a-kind library, home to thousands of books across all genres. Whether you’re a fan of fiction, non-fiction or children’s stories, there’s something for everyone – with hardback novels priced at just £4.50 and paperbacks at £2.50.

Gary added: “We know Harborne is a community that loves books, so we’re incredibly excited to offer this unique space where book lovers can discover hidden gems while helping us provide vital care for seriously ill children.”

The new shop also offers a designated donation drop-off zone, making it easier than ever for supporters to donate their items.

With Acorns retail operation generating more than £2 million in profit each year to fund its lifeline care for local children, the charity is calling on the community to shop, donate and volunteer at the new superstore.

The Harborne superstore will be open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays. Contact the shop by telephoning 0121 559 6157, or arrange a free furniture collection by email at furnitureharbone@acorns.org.uk

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Give us the gift of time and volunteer at our Harborne superstore. Visit www.acorns.org.uk/volunteering for current opportunities or to register your interest.

Acorns Children’s Hospice held its first-ever Iftar event last Friday (21 March), bringing together families, colleagues, local Muslim leaders and businesses for an evening of unity and reflection.

The event was held at the charity’s Birmingham hospice in Selly Oak where it has provided vital support to over 300 children with life limiting and life threatening conditions in the past year.

Members of the community came together to share food and companionship after a day of fasting for many. The gathering embraced the spirit of Iftar, offering an inclusive space for all attendees to experience and appreciate the significance of this special tradition.

Imam Mohammad Asad MBE from Birmingham Central Mosque, was among the distinguished guests and who hosted the event alongside Acorns Chief Executive, Trevor Johnson.

The Imam said: “Ramadan teaches us valuable lessons of empathy and compassion. Through fasting, we are encouraged to understand the suffering of the less fortunate and develop a sense of gratitude for their blessings.

“This experience fosters a stronger sense of community, as we come together to break our fasts and share meals with families and communities.

“Sharing these experiences at the first-ever Iftar event at Acorns Children’s Hospice was a great milestone achieved, and was a vision led by its Chief Executive, Trevor Johnson.

“I am grateful to all of the staff and families who supported and organised the beautiful Iftar event and made it a great success. I look forward in continuing to work with such an inspiring team to achieve further goals together.”

Imam Mohammad Asad MBE from Birmingham Central Mosque and Acorns Chief Executive Trevor Johnson at the event.
The food was generously arranged by Mr Ishtiaq Latif, CEO of Latifs.

Honoured guests included Bukhtawar Mir, the Pakistan Consulate, and Mohammad Afzal, the Chair of Birmingham Central Mosque.

Acorns also welcomed members of the Birmingham business community, who showed their support and commitment to strengthening ties between the charity and local businesses. Among them was Mr Ishtiaq Latif, CEO of Latifs, who generously arranged and sponsored the food on the evening.

A special guest at the Iftar was Shabana Khan, whose daughter Haniya receives vital care at Acorns Birmingham. Haniya and her mum visit the hospice for symptom management and palliative day therapies, including physiotherapy and hydrotherapy.

She said: “Acorns is a second home to me and my family. I don’t know what we’d do without them. They’re there for us, no matter what.”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

By supporting Acorns Children’s Hospice this Ramadan, your charitable giving can provide vital comfort, hope and love to seriously ill children and their families. Donate today by visiting www.acorns.org.uk/ramadan

Amanda Quimby and her family first discovered Acorns Bubble Rush after spending precious time at the hospice with their son, Astro, for end-of-life care. Wanting to give back to the charity that meant so much to them, they saw Bubble Rush as the perfect way to fundraise while creating joyful memories together.

An annual tradition

Amanda says: “The event is so inclusive and accessible. Whether you want to run, walk, or wheel your way around, it is something the whole family can enjoy. It felt like the best way for us to celebrate Astro while supporting Acorns.”

Since signing up for their first event in 2023, Amanda’s family has made Bubble Rush an annual tradition – even getting the grandparents involved.

She added: “It’s such a fun day from start to finish. The atmosphere is amazing, with warm-up activities, stalls, and people sharing stories about what Acorns means to them. You really feel part of something special.”

For Amanda, it’s the little moments that make the event unforgettable.

A family enjoying the blue bubbles at Acorns Bubble Rush event.

Praise for the Acorns team

“We took before and after selfies, and seeing the transformation was hilarious! At one point, we got completely engulfed in foam and came out looking like giant marshmallows.

“It was lovely seeing people wearing personalised t-shirts to honour their loved ones. We wore little badges of Astro, and it was so special to see him also covered in bubbles – joining in on the fun.”

Amanda and her family are full of praise for the Acorns team, from the enthusiastic volunteers cheering everyone on to the little touches that make the day even more enjoyable.

She added: “Our daughter loved high fiving the foam fingers along the route. The team really goes above and beyond to make sure everyone has a fantastic time.”

Taking part in Bubble Rush is more than just a day out – it’s a way for Amanda’s family to celebrate Astro while giving back to Acorns. 

“The hospice gave us a home-like environment to spend our last days with Astro, something we never had in hospital. Their support was invaluable, and they continue to help us through bereavement support and sibling groups for our daughter.” 

And her top tip for future Bubble Rush goers? 

“Goggles or glasses are a must for children so they can dive into the bubbles.” 

Join the fantastic bubble-filled day!

Come along to the return of our most foam-tastic event in 2025 and take on the bubbles, all while supporting Acorns. Early Bird is now on so get your tickets for the whole family before prices go up. Hurry as they won’t last long!

Sign up today

“It’s a place where you feel like you’re on top of the world. To watch the sun rise from the top of the mountain was simply beautiful. You feel so amazing and free, among the clouds, and you wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Phil and Helen Evans still remember watching the golden morning sun rise after joining our spectacular Acorns Sunrise Trek – and walking through the night up the highest peak in South Wales

They did it to raise money in memory of their beautiful son Ben, who died aged just 11 and he was in their thoughts and hearts every step of the way.

A beautiful way to remember

“Ben was an amazing boy, and was a joy to be around,” mum Helen said. “He was a wonderful character, and always made his feelings well known. He loved TV and CBeebies, and he loved being with friends. 

“Ben was very much with us by our side as we climbed and to watch the sun rise was the most beautiful way to remember him.” 

Phil and Helen climbed Pen Y Fan with our adventurous team of Acorns supporters, taking in a breath-taking sunrise and spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons National Park.  

They also spoke about Ben’s devastating diagnosis and the lifeline support and specialist medical care they received from us during Ben’s final days.

A man, woman and son all smiling together.

“Acorns supported us in so many ways.”

A man and a woman smiling at the top of a mountain with a sunrise behind them.

“Ben had a number of health issues, he was profoundly deaf and he was born with a rare genetic disorder called Mitochondrial Disease,” Helen said. “It can affect people in different ways, but for Ben it affected his hearing, feeding, muscle tone and kidneys, which required dialysis during his final year.

“When Ben was 10-years-old we were given devastating news. He was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a condition affecting the heart, and we were told there were no further treatment options and we were referred for palliative care at Acorns.”

Helen added: “It was a slow decline, and the dialysis was taking its toll. Ben was very, very poorly but we were able to liaise with the specialist nurses about the care Ben needed, and they helped us to develop the advanced care plan, so that we were as prepared as we could be for what lay ahead. Acorns supported us in so many ways.”

The family had regular contact with one of our Family Support Workers, and Ben received specialist medical care and help with tube feeding, along with holistic therapies including massage, play and music. Helen and Phil were also able to access group support, along with alternative treatments.

It was in September 2016 when Ben passed away at home.

A man and a woman looking out at a sunrise wearing t-shirts with a photo of their sun on the back.

Praise for the Acorns team

Helen said: “Acorns guided and supported us to take care of things that had to be done and we were in a protected bubble at the most painful time imaginable.

“We were able to stay at the hospice with Ben after he died. Everyone at Acorns was so supportive, and being with Ben allowed us the time to say goodbye. We are so thankful for that and for all the help Acorns gave us.”

We’re so grateful the couple have since raised an amazing £30,000 for us from a host of fundraising activities.

Acorns Sunrise Trek

Helen said: “When I saw the trek advertised, it spoke to me straight away. It felt like it would be an unforgettable experience and to do it with Ben firmly in our hearts would be something really beautiful and special.  

“While I did find the final stretch of the walk quite challenging, Phil and the trek leader were very encouraging – and I thought about Ben and what he went through. We made it to the summit with just minutes to spare and the sunrise was amazing.” 

Ultimately, Helen and Phil said the trek gave them purpose and something amazing to do to remember Ben – and to support Acorns to say ‘thank you’. 

Helen said: “We wanted to say thank you for all the wonderful support we were given by Acorns through such a horrendous time. We wanted to give back, so that others who are going through a similar situation get the medical care and all the support they need.”

A group of people climbing Pen y Fan.

After reaching the peak, a fellow bereaved parent gave them a stone she had painted with Ben’s name on it.

“We were really touched. We always painted stones, and it was really beautiful. We were able to place the stone at the summit in his memory as the sun rose.

“It was something so special and totally unforgettable.”

What is Ramadan?

March 1st 2025 would be the first day of fasting although, as Islamic days start at sunset, the month of Ramadan would actually begin on the evening of Friday, February 28, provided the moon is sighted.

Muslims around the world will start fasting during daylight hours, meaning they will abstain from eating, drinking or engaging in sexual relations for the duration of their fast. Young children, pregnant women, the old, the sick and travellers are examples of those who are exempt from fasting.

Aside from fasting, Muslims observing Ramadan also increase in spiritual devotional acts such as prayers, giving charity and strengthening family ties. Muslims are also encouraged to share their food with friends, family, neighbours, colleagues and to reach out to those who may be fasting alone, to share their Ramadan experiences.

Why fasting?

“O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain Taqwa (God-conscious)” [Quran 2:183]

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. A key objective of fasting increase in taqwa (closeness to / consciousness of God), and to engender a sense of gratitude, self-discipline and self-improvement, at both an individual and community level, which Muslims are encouraged to continue throughout the year.

At an individual level, fasting encourages us to feel an affinity with the poor across the world who have little or no food to eat. At a community level, the breaking of fast meal (Iftar) at sunset encourages families and local communities to share their meal together, whilst charity work in local communities typically increases during Ramadan.

The end of Ramadan is marked by the festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, known as the ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast’. Like the beginning of Ramadan, the end of the month is determined by moon sighting.

Wishing everyone a happy month of Ramadan.

Imam Mohammad Asad MBE

Muslim Chaplain

a man with a beard wearing a white faith-based camp and white clothing
Mohammad Asad MBE

You would think that trekking the world’s hottest desert for Acorns Children’s Hospice was enough of a feat for Steven Duffield. But this is just the tip of the iceberg for the Worcestershire resident, who not only lost 17 stone in less than a year, but is also hiking a staggering 1,880 miles to raise even more money for the charity.

The inspiration behind his epic journey is his beloved niece, Meggie, who relies on the critical support of Acorns for the Three Counties for rehabilitative respite care and family services.

Steven, who moved to Kidderminster nearly three years ago, made the decision to change his life two years ago. Once nearly 30 stone, what started as a commitment to improving his health, became a remarkable 17 stone weight loss.

He explained: “When I started walking, it was just six miles in the first month – and that was more than enough for me at the time. But I stuck at it, walking more and more and I’m now up to 25 miles a day. As the weight fell off, my mental health improved drastically too. I slowly began to feel like myself again.

“My dad, who we lost to dementia five years ago, was always fond of walking – so walking makes me feel close to him too in many ways, and to appreciate life.”

Now, Steven is channelling his passion for walking and the outdoors to give back. Following a trip to Tunisia, where he first experienced the beauty of the Sahara Desert, Steven eagerly embraced the idea of trekking the Sahara. It was a slip of the tongue from his friend that sparked an even bigger idea.

Steven said: “A friend of mine thought I was actually walking all the way from Kidderminster to the Sahara! We had a good laugh when I explained the mix-up, but the idea stuck with me – I couldn’t shake how incredible that challenge would be.

“Now, here I am. Whilst I’m not physically walking to the Sahara, I’m covering the exact same distance, and hoping to raise even more money for Acorns because of it.”

In a full circle moment for Steven, he’s covering this distance of 1,880 miles along the same local canals, nature reserves and trails where he first embarked on his remarkable weight loss journey, transforming both his physical health and mental wellbeing.

For Steven, this whole endeavour is deeply personal. His 11-year-old niece, Meggie, has a highly complex, rare and life limiting chromosome disorder known as Trisomy 9 mosaic syndrome. This means she requires permanent care, is non-verbal, unable to take solid food, has a compromised immune system and was born with several of her major organs twisted, fused and in the wrong place.

Steven explained: “Acorns has been a lifeline for my sister and her family. It’s about more than just Meggie – they care for the whole family, including her twin brother, through sibling groups and family fun days.”

“When Meggie stays overnight at the hospice, she not only gets to enjoy herself, but her mum and dad can also get some much-needed rest, knowing she’s in expert hands.”

Since the beginning of February, Steven has been walking up six hours every day carrying a 30lb backpack, aiming to cover all 1,880 miles before the Sahara trek in October – that’s over 72 marathons and more than 4.2 million steps. “It’s going to take a few pairs of trainers!”, he added.

Steven is also spreading awareness with his very own business cards explaining his challenge and the work Acorns does, complete with a QR code linking to his JustGiving page. He’s even reaching out to local businesses and planning a summer music festival to raise additional funds for the charity. His target is £4,000, though he hopes to surpass it.

“I’m doing everything I can because I understand firsthand what families like mine go through,” Steven said. “Living with Meggie, I see every day how poorly she is and the reality of having a child with a life limiting condition. I’ve watched her go in and out of hospital, never knowing one day to the next if she would make it.”

He added: “Whenever I’m out walking and my feet start to ache or the rain’s pouring down, I just think about Meggie and other children at Acorns. It’s a powerful reminder that any discomfort I feel is nothing compared to what they go through.”

As October approaches, Steven is determined to raise as much awareness and funds as possible for Acorns while honouring Meggie and other children like her. His journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of giving back.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

To support Steven and make a donation, visit his JustGiving page. To find out more about how Acorns provides lifeline care and support for children and families like Meggie’s, visit www.acorns.org.uk

Meet Julie Rose: The Heart of Acorns Walsall Shop

Julie Rose describes Acorns as one of her favourite places she’s worked, and it’s clear when you speak to her that she feels very at home here. Her warmth, kindness, and willingness to help shine through in everything she does, making her an invaluable part of the team. “I treat people how I want to be treated,” she says, welcoming every customer that walks through the door with a smile.

These qualities are just few of the reasons she’s been recognised as one of our Volunteers of the Month.

Julie’s hard work

Julie is one of the wonderful shop volunteers at Acorns Walsall and, after receiving a glowing nomination from shop manager Tom Owen, it’s no surprise that all her hard work has been recognised with this award. We went along to the shop hear more about Julie and the amazing work she’s been doing.

Over the past two years, Julie has gone above and beyond for Acorns, even going as far as completing her training to become one of our Key Volunteers. She now takes on greater responsibilities, ensuring the shop runs smoothly in Tom’s absence:

“Whenever Tom has a meeting, he trusts me to manage the shop floor – overseeing the tills, assisting customers, supporting other volunteers and, handling any IT mishaps, which always seem to occur the minute he walks out the door!” she said.

An Acorns shop volunteer looking at the shelves in an Acorns charity shop.

“Tom’s teaching me everything he can to build my skills. We have a great working relationship, bouncing ideas off each other to make the shop as successful as possible. I’ve learned so much thanks to his guidance.”

But for Julie, volunteering is about more than just managing a shop – it’s about making an impact.

“I truly felt like I had made a meaningful difference”.

Three woman behind a till at an Acorns charity shop.

Making a difference

With over a decade of care experience, she brings unique skills to her role, often stepping in to support members of the local community when they most need it.

She recalls comforting a distressed child with autism, who had come along to the shop with his mother for some shopping:

“He was visibly upset, but with my extensive experience in care, I knew I could step in to help him and his mother. By the time they left, their spirits were much noticeably brighter, and I truly felt like I had made a meaningful difference,” she shared.

On other occasions, she is a friendly face for an elderly gentleman who regularly stops by just to chat.

Julie has a passion for Acorns

She shared: “I think he finds comfort in knowing someone is always here, and we are more than happy to be that friendly presence for him.

“Sometimes, it’s more than just the selling – it’s about helping the local community with whatever they may need at that time.”

Julie’s passion for Acorns is clear. “I feel more valued here than anywhere else I’ve worked,” she said. “Even small gestures, like saying ‘You did well today,’ make a big difference. I know I’m making an impact every time I step into the shop.”

A woman wearing an Acorns volunteer lanyard smiling.

And her advice for anyone considering volunteering at Acorns?

Julie added: “Just do it. It’s a brilliant opportunity to meet new people and develop your skills, all whilst helping to deliver vital care to local children and their families.

“Volunteering for Acorns has boosted my personal confidence greatly. It has made me to feel capable of achieving so much more.”

Why not get involved yourself?

It’s thanks to volunteers like Julie that our network of nearly 50 shops is so successful, bringing in over £2 million a year. Our retail team simply couldn’t operate our shops without their help.

Make a difference in your local community and view the current volunteering opportunities at Acorns: www.volunteers.acornscareers.org.uk

Having been a motorbike enthusiast for as long as he could remember, when Tim Walton saw other motorcyclists raising money for charity, he knew he wanted to get involved.

For Tim, choosing to raise money for Acorns was an easy decision.

“Who is more deserving than children? Acorns is a wonderful charity and so it just seemed right,” Tim explained.

A unique way to fundraise

Tim has now turned a beloved hobby into a unique way of fundraising. For the last five years, he has dressed up as ‘TrikeSanta’, riding around the West Midlands every December on his festive motorcycle, spreading holiday joy all while raising awareness and funds for local children and families.

His fundraising efforts have been hugely successful, raising over £8,000 for Acorns so far. And he’s not stopping there!

“My first request for a Santa visit for this year came as early as March. I’ve spent the summer revamping the sleigh, adding two reindeers in preparation for this year’s festive season,” Tim beamed.

A Santa sat on a motorbike with a sleigh attached to it, and an elf stood in front.
A person dressed as Santa sat on a quad bike that has a Santa sleigh attached behind it.

Support from Acorns

Tim is supported by one of our Area fundraisers, Mel Hall. Mel is on hand to help Tim with any aspect of his fundraising endeavours – whether there to help brainstorm new ideas, be a supportive presence on the day, or show Tim exactly how the money he raises helps the children and families we care for.

“Mel is great. She’s given me multiple tours of the hospice over the years. She’s really good at showing me where the money I raise directly goes, something I feel is essential to see as a fundraiser,” Tim said.

It’s clear Tim feels very content fundraising with Acorns, saying sincerely: “Being TrikeSanta is the best thing in the world.

“I really feel a part of the team. Whether I walk into the hospice dressed as Santa or as Tim, everyone recognises me and warmly welcomes me back.”

Are you inspired by Tim’s story? Would you like to fundraise for Acorns?

Find out more

Tony Frobisher is a man who needs little introduction – he is a dedicated father, fundraiser and a fierce Ambassador for Acorns Children’s Hospice and our care for families just like his.

The 55-year-old dedicated his life to raising vital funds and awareness of Acorns after his family received lifeline support at our hospice in Worcester.

Tony and wife Rini’s triplet daughters Jewel, Louisa and Milla were born 16 weeks premature in 2006. Sadly, Jewel died after 17 days. Milla and Louisa survived against the odds, coming home after six months in hospital.

Within a year Milla was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy, meaning she required 24-hour care. She was unable to walk, talk and needed a feeding tube into her stomach.

The family was referred to Acorns for the Three Counties, with Milla and Louisa both enjoying short breaks initially. After Louisa was discharged, Milla continued to visit Acorns where she would take part in different activities, sensory play, hydrotherapy and receive one-to-one care.

Tony explained: “Acorns gave my wife and I the chance of a break from the constant 24-hour-a-day care for Milla and Louisa. Broken sleep, illness, feeding regimes and medicines all took its toll on our physical, mental and emotional well being.”

“To see the happiness of all the children in Acorns, to see Milla smiling and relaxed, being so well cared for by the amazing, dedicated staff and volunteers was very important to us. To know she was safe, but happy, cared for and being treated not as a patient, but as a child.”

Support every step of the way

Sadly, Milla passed away unexpectedly from a sepsis infection while abroad visiting family. Acorns was there to support Tony and his family through the unimaginable.

Tony said: “Acorns were one of the first to reach out to us. They were there to support us every step of the way.”

A man wearing a Commonwealth Games top, holding the games baton

It’s thanks to this support that Tony has taken on numerous challenges to help raise funds to enable us to continue our vital care for children like Milla.

Among the feats have been the Acorns Triple Run in 2014, a 200-mile cycle in 2016 and a 12-hour sing and guitar-a-thon in 2020, all of which have seen him raise thousands of pounds for Acorns.

A keen poet, Tony also published a collection of poetry, with all proceeds going towards our care.

In 2020, he became an Ambassador for Acorns as a Parent Carer Champion, advocating for children’s hospice care on a regional and national scale.

Tony’s efforts to keep Acorns in the spotlight reached yet another high in 2022, when he flew the flag for our care and support as one of 2,000 inspirational people from across the West Midlands who took on the role of Batonbearer in the Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Commonwealth Games Baton Relay.

“Whenever I’ve done fundraising or awareness raising activity it’s always been for a number of reasons; obviously the motivation to try and raise as much as I can for charities, in particular Acorns for their help and support, but also I made a promise to Milla when she passed away that I would always fundraise and do what I could to keep her memory alive.

“So, it’s a really special way to remember both Milla and Jewel.”