Emma, a dedicated team member from The Birches Extra Care service at Optalis, has once again gone above and beyond to bring joy and laughter to the residents and staff.
Her annual Christmas dress-up tradition not only raises spirits but also raises funds for causes close to her heart. This year, she outdid herself completing an entire shift dressed as a spectacular giant inflatable walking Christmas tree.
The highlight of Emma’s festive tradition is not just the amusing spectacle but the heartfelt purpose behind it.
Each year, she selects a charity that has impacted the life (or lives) of people she supports, in their honour.
This year, Emma chose to support the Berkshire Cancer Centre at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in memory of a resident she supported, who sadly passed away earlier in the year after battling cancer.
Emma’s efforts have resulted in a total of £235 being raised for the Berkshire Cancer Centre, so far.
Over the past four years, Emma has donned various costumes, each representing a charity linked to the customers Optalis cares for or has cared for in the past.
The cumulative impact of Emma’s fundraising efforts has exceeded £1,000.
For those inspired to contribute to the cause, donations to the Berkshire Cancer Centre can be made online at www.royalberkscharity.co.uk, including the reference number U382.
Optalis provides care and support services on behalf of Wokingham Borough Council, the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead to older people and adults with disabilities.
For more information about Optalis visit www.optalis.org.
