On Friday, Big Ted and I had the pleasure of visiting Chingford Rose Croix Chapter No. 850 to present them with a TLC Essex Patron Certificate, following their generous £500 donation to the Appeal.

We were warmly welcomed by Most Wise Sovereign, E&P Alex Tsamkosoglou, and the Companions of the Chapter, whose kindness, hospitality, and enthusiasm made it a thoroughly enjoyable evening from start to finish. Their generosity has instantly made them Patrons of the TLC Essex Appeal, helping us continue our mission of providing cuddly teddy bears to children experiencing fear, pain, or anxiety in hospitals across Essex.

It’s always especially meaningful when bodies outside of Craft and Royal Arch Masonry show their support for TLC Essex. The Rose Croix may not be the first place you expect to see a teddy bear, but the compassion shown by the Companions of Chingford Chapter is a perfect reminder that the values of charity and care run deeply throughout all orders of Freemasonry.

We are incredibly grateful for their donation and for allowing us the opportunity to speak about the TLC Essex Appeal and the difference it makes every day to children in crisis.

Thank you once again to E&P Alex and all the Companions of Chingford Rose Croix Chapter No. 850. Your support truly means the world to us—and to the little ones we serve.