You write a book about your granddaughter’s leukaemia journey, your only intention to raise awareness, raise funds for the ward that saved her and, as she grows older, help inform this remarkable little girl what she went through at only ten months of age! You launch the book in December 2024 understanding that you will be fortunate as a self-published author to sell a hundred of these books….. Then…… something happens, you touch hearts, people follow, they join your journey, and, as you approach only eighteen months of the books release you have sold thousands across 20 countries and raised over £16,000 in royalties and gifts for the cancer wards that saved your little granddaughter.
This book and this success only happens because of an army of amazing people doing what they can to help and support this cause.
Then one day you get an email, you are being interviewed for a regional “Charity Champion” award after being nominated and shortlisted, you are invited to the finals evening and you feel honoured to have reached the final, you are among recognised charities, wonderful people driving their own noble causes, you are the “new kid on the block” and then you listen to the finalists being announced….. there is a pause while you steady yourself for the expected recognised organisation to be rewarded with the title……….. Wait !! I heard “Small boat” ….. I must be mistaken…..
I wasn’t !!!
There are so many thankyous… not least the thousands of people out there buying this special book ! Also, the wonderful sponsors of the award, those that nominated us and the judges. Then there are a few others….. my long-suffering family and friends and at the centre of this the small boat herself……… sailing and navigating a lifetime of conditions following her leukaemia, but with a grace and humour and a “wing it” attitude that is a credit to her.
A special thank you to my long-suffering friend “Dan” without his patience and unlimited skill you would not read the information on this site or enjoy the images we provide. Thank you, my friend.
This award celebrates us all and gives me the greatest privilege to thank you all. This folks is only the beginning…… together this journey will achieve so much more, buckle in and get ready !
