Not even a double tragedy can stand in the way of true friendship and charity

Prive Hair Salon in Leatherhead is hosting a fabulous raffle to raise money for St Catherine’s Hospice, a local charity that provides end-of-life care and support to people living with a terminal or life-limiting condition and their families.

Frank Scannella and Lauren Manning (the co-owners) offered to host the raffle to support a great friend, Wendy Martin (49). Wendy was given a terminal brain metastasis diagnosis in May (just 3 weeks after having been given the all-clear from stage 3 triple negative breast cancer) and referred to St Catherine’s for palliative and end-of-life care.

However, just a couple of weeks after Wendy’s shock terminal diagnosis, Lauren’s husband, Paul (well-known and loved owner/founder of Prive), tragically and unexpectedly died at the age of 60. A shocking loss that has affected family, friends, colleagues and clients.

Despite these tragedies, Lauren and Wendy are determined to try to support each other at the most testing of times, and help the hospice who are currently providing outstanding palliative support, and will provide end-of-life care for Wendy and many others in the area.

The raffle ticket sales are taking place from now until 26th September and there are some fabulous prizes to be won. First prize is a one-week holiday for up to 4 people to Harbourside Padstow (including parking for one car), a Rick Stein voucher and Cornish goodies. Second prize is a £100 Liberty voucher and a Fortnum’s hamper. Third prize is a £50 Liberty voucher and a beauty hamper.

Wendy says, “I’ve always been lucky and grateful to have Lauren’s friendship, but never more so than now. Despite her own recent personal tragedy she continues to be a huge support to me personally, and still remains keen to help raise awareness and funds for the important work that St Catherine’s Hospice do.”

She continues, “Despite the hospice being so close to home, I had no idea of the amazing work they do, or the huge challenge they have to raise sufficient funds to offer the full service they would like. Despite having 24 beautifully appointed rooms, they can currently keep 12 in operation (purely due to sustainable funding issues). It’s a tragedy as they could be helping so many more people and their families.”

Lauren says, “The last few weeks have shown us all how none of us know what’s around the corner, and we should make the most of every day. Paul lived life like that and always wanted to make a positive difference (as does salon co-owner Frank). At Prive, we’ve always supported local charities and causes, and we’re delighted to support Wendy and St Catherine’s at this time. I’ve seen the support and positivity they’ve given Wendy, and we’re delighted to do what we can to help them continue their excellent work.”

For more information, please email wendy@reedwords.co.uk or call Wendy Martin on 07778 685716