St. Helen & St. Giles Chapter No. 9133, which meets in Upminster, may be a small Chapter, but it certainly has a very big heart.

I was recently delighted to be invited to attend one of their meetings to speak about the work of TLC Essex and the difference that our TLC Teddies make to children across hospitals in Essex. It was a pleasure to share the story of the appeal and explain how a simple teddy bear can provide comfort and reassurance to young patients during what can often be a frightening or distressing time.

Following the talk, the companions demonstrated their wonderful generosity by presenting a cheque for £750 in support of the TLC Essex Appeal.

For context, a £500 donation from a lodge is already considered a significant contribution to the appeal, which makes a £750 donation from a small Chapter all the more impressive. Their support will make a real difference.

This fantastic contribution will fund approximately 300 TLC Teddies. That is enough bears to keep a Children’s Emergency Department supplied for around six weeks, or to support a Paediatric Ward for up to three months.

Every teddy helps a child feel a little less frightened and a little more comforted at a difficult moment, and donations like this help ensure that hospitals across Essex always have TLC Teddies available when they are needed most.

Our sincere thanks go to the companions of St. Helen & St. Giles Chapter for their generosity and kindness.

Thank you, brethren! 👏