NORTHWOOD-BASED Michael Sobell Hospice will be celebrating 40 years of local hospice care starting this Valentine’s Day with a kiss – and a little help from TV presenter Anthea Turner.

The ‘My First Kiss’ campaign is being launched at the beginning of February in celebration of the milestone year and to highlight how the hospice has touched the lives of so many families over the past four decades with services such as the Patient & Family Support Service (PAFS).

Supporters are being invited to share a few words about their first kiss, or a memorable experience, story or anecdote of Michael Sobell Hospice, by filling out a special comment form available in all MSH charity shops in Northwood, Ruislip and Eastcote, via the Hospice and the Charity Fundraising office located on the Mount Vernon Hospital site, or via the Charity’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/michaelsobellhospice

Hillingdon Times:

Anthea, who is backing the charity’s campaign by sharing her first kiss memory, said: “Mine was practising on the back of my hand which was a suggestion made by Cathy and Claire who ran the Jackie Magazine problem page. I was probably imagining it was David Cassidy!”

Michael Sobell Hospice Charity PR and marketing manager Sam Heggie, explained: “Being able to talk to family members when a loved one is seriously ill is sometimes one of the hardest things to do, especially where children are concerned.

“This is where our Patient & Family Support Service team come in. It offers advice and support and gives families the chance to come together and talk through their concerns, fears or anxieties.”

She added: “If you feel you are able to donate £40 in our 40th year towards the campaign, please visit www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk and click on the ‘My First Kiss’ campaign link, TEXT FMSHC40 with your £40 donation to 70070, or donate via post addressed to the Michael Sobell Hospice Charity Fundraising Office, Michael Sobell Centre, Northwood, HA6 2RN and please mark your envelope ‘My First Kiss’."

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