THE WOODLEY community has shown its compassionate side yet again by clubbing together to send Lilly-May Page Bowden’s mother and family on a much-needed holiday.
Claire Page has campaigned tirelessly over the last two years to have defibrillators installed in every school in the town and beyond following the death of her daughter in 2014.
After last week’s inquest, Ms Page’s friends have set up a fundraising website to collect money to send her, her family and baby son Mitchell away on a much-needed break.
Donna Chubb, who set up the page with a goal of £1,000, said: “Claire had posted on Facebook about how devastating the inquest had been, and some people messaged her saying that she needed a break, and a few people suggested clubbing together to raise some money for her.
“Claire is such a humble person, when I ran it passed her before I put the page live on Monday I don’t think she expected anyone to donate anything, so to have passed £1,000 is just amazing.
“I’ve known Claire for around 20 years, I’ve lived in Woodley all my life and I know how generous everyone is, it’s such a lovely community.
“The page is live for another 28 days so hopefully we can raise enough to send Claire somewhere hot and sunny.”
At the time of going to press, an incredible £1,400 had been raised, smashing the initial target.
Donor Rita Brandon posted on the JustGiving site: “Claire, what an inspiration you are to so many people. You have shown courage and determination following the awful tragedy that was put before you and I hope that you enjoy the break, you deserve it.”
Ms Page said the response had been ‘unreal’.
She said: “I’m so overwhelmed, in such a horrible mist of grief, to see them all do this, I am blown away by the love and appreciation… it’s just unreal.
“It’s definitely shown me the amazing support I do have. From the bottom of my broken heart, thank you so much.”
To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/thankstoclaire.
