QHS Pupils Support Local Cancer Charity to Help Patients at NGH

This week Quinton House School pupils supported The Lewis Foundation, a charitable organisation that provides comfort and happiness to cancer patients receiving cancer treatment on all wards within Northampton General Hospital, by holding a mufti day and in return donating items to be included in gift bags for patients.

The founder, Lorraine Lewis’s, mother-in-law was treated at Northampton General Hospital and noticed how sad and bored patients looked on the wards and in the private rooms when they were on their own without family and friends being present. To help take their mind off endless treatments they donate around 80 gift bags a month for day patients, overnight patients and emergency patients.

The response has been incredible with huge generosity shown by pupils and parents in donating a range of items including toiletries, clothing, magazines and books.

Pupils on the School Council today packaged the items into gift bags which will be distributed to patients on the wards this evening.

Pupils have also taken part in a poetry writing competition on the theme of happiness. Headteacher Catherine Cozens judged the best entries which have been included in the gift bags with the aim of bringing some light relief and positivity to those awaiting treatment.

Tanya Goody, Deputy Head at Quinton House, says, “When the Lewis Foundation got in touch we knew we had to be involved. Quinton House does a lot of charitable fundraising for local and national charities but the opportunity to work with the Lewis Foundation allows pupils to get hands on with the work of the charity and to come face to face with those who will benefit from the generous donations. At Quinton House we foster a strong sense of community and initiatives like this are invaluable in supporting the school’s values and shaping rounded and compassionate individuals.”

Lorraine Lewis, founder of the Lewis Foundation added, “It was really important to us to get the younger generation involved in the work of our charity. We were so pleased when Quinton House agreed to get their pupils involved. Lee and I are absolutely amazed at the kindness and generosity shown by pupils, their parents and staff. This will make a huge difference to people that receive our gift bags, whilst in hospital. We cannot thank you enough.”