On 17th November 2023, my cousin's 11 year old son, Thomas died unexpectedly. Despite facing a life time of complex health issues, he was an absolute character and everyone who met Thomas, fell completely in love with him.

Leia, Thomas's sister, had turned 14 just the day before Thomas died and was incredibly close to her brother. She was with Thomas while he was on life support and after he died. As their parents left the hospital, her mam was given a beautiful box containing Thomas's hair and finger, hand and foot prints while Leia did not even receive a leaflet to advise her where she could get support, should she need it, despite experiencing the most traumatic event of her life.

Leia felt incredibly deflated that she didn't seem to matter and set out to change how childhood bereavement was viewed. Leia approached her Auntie Helen (also my cousin) to ask what the family could do to change things. Together, they came up with boxes, filled with many activities and tools to support a child to process and understand their grief.

Since the launch of Leia's Gift in January 2024, Leia has sent out hundred of boxes to children across the UK following the loss of a parent or sibling. She provides the boxes completely free of charge and demand is incredibly high. There is very little out there, particularly within the North East for children who have lost a parent or sibling.

I am participating in a wing walk on June 10th 2025 at 11:30am to try and raise as much money as I can to help Leia continue doing the amazing work she does. Any amount you can give, no matter how big or small will help her continue to make a difference!

Thank you so much for your support

Nathan