Little Wishes makes a big difference
It may be a relatively small operation but the Edenderry-based charity Little Wishes has made a big contribution to the community since its foundation in 2012.
Little Wishes provides surprise treats for cancer sufferers or people affected by the disease who live within a 15-mile radius of Edenderry. Founded by cancer survivor Nida Collins, the organisation, which currently has a committee of nine, has brightened the lives of over 200 people over the past three years.
Speaking to the Offaly Independent, PRO Claire Rushe said that while 90% of treats are bought locally, the organisation always tries to give people treats that have a personal touch. She added that their cause is helped by the generosity of the people from the Edenderry area.
“We recently surprised a woman who is going through cancer treatment and were told the she loves going to Penneys by one of her family. We got her a voucher and she was so grateful and was surprised that we knew she liked shopping there.”
“Another person we surprised had quit his job to go back to do a cookery course so we arranged with Nevin Maguire’s restaurant MacNean Bistro and they gave him a full-day in their cookery school, dinner in the evening and B&B”.
“People are so good, we never look for anything we just explain what we are doing and they nearly always want to help,” Claire detailed.
She continued: “We are in a very lucky position. We depend on donations and people and organisations are always coming to us asking can they do something to raise funds. Edenderry Tri Club recently did a 24-hour triathlon and we were one of the charities that received a donation. It’s only because people continue to give that we can continue to give”.
There isn’t a family in Offaly that hasn’t been affected by cancer in some way and Claire stressed that the members of Little Wishes derive great fulfilment from helping people when they are going through a difficult period.
“What we do is very small in the greater scheme of things but to the person who we are surprising it means a lot. When we deliver a treat, we write a card and say that it is from the community to let you know that we care about you,” she enthused.
On Thursday, December 3 next, Little Wishes are holding a special Mass called 'Light a Light for life with Little Wishes’ in St Mary’s Church and they would love to see as many as possible come along.
“We would like to invite everyone who can to join us for this special candle-lit mass which is in recognition of the fantastic support we have received over the past few years. This support has enabled us to provide over 200 treats to local people affected by cancer. We are extremely grateful to our community for its continued help and support.”
Little Wishes is always on the look out for new people to surprise. If you know anyone affected by cancer living in the greater Edenderry area, they want to hear from you.
“We want people to come to us, some people might not realise that we are here and we trying to raise our profile,” Claire concluded.
For more information on Little Wishes or to nominate someone for a treat call 089 2417179. The group also has a Facebook page where you can get a snapshot of the good work that they do: www.facebook.com/LittleWishesEdenderry.