Family Nursing & Home Care (FNHC) has unveiled an impressive memory tree display at the recently opened Florence Bechelet Clinic in St. Peter. The Bailiff, Sir William Bailhache, recently unveiled the memory tree at a short ceremony.
The idea behind the sculpture, which is on display in the clinic’s waiting room, is to commemorate the names of islanders who have left a legacy to FNHC or to display the names of people whose families have made donations in their loved one’s memory.
Individual’s names are engraved on to a metal leaf which is then attached to the tree. To date, 91 leaves have been engraved with the names of recent memoriam donors.
Ivo Le Maistre Smith, fundraising manager at FNHC said: ‘Legacies and donations make such a significant contribution to FNHC and the services we can provide to all islanders. The memory tree is a great visual symbol of our gratitude towards those who have helped FNHC, either through donations or by leaving their legacy with us. The idea is that the tree will gradually come to life, sprouting more and more leaves, celebrating our benefactors’ generosity.’
Charlotte Elliott, Wills and Probate lawyer at Hawksford, said: ‘It has been a pleasure to be involved with this initiative to remember those who have left a legacy behind to this important local charity. Family Nursing & Home Care does great work for our community and we are committed to providing our long-term support. We're very proud to sponsor the memory tree sculpture, which represents a tribute of thanks to those who have donated to such a great cause.'
The Florence Bechelet Clinic was opened in June 2017 to serve as a base for the West District Nursing Team and increase their capacity to see more patients. In the last quarter of 2017, FNHC saw 2,305 patients, with 48% of those being at the Florence Bechelet Clinic.
The clinic, which was opened by Lady Dalton, is named after well-known islander Florence Bechelet, whose legacy was used to cover the capital costs of the clinic’s internal structure.
If you would like to find out more about leaving a legacy or donation to FNHC, please visit www.fnhc.org.je.