A Dublin Fundraising Hero Inspires Generations to Support Hospice Care
May Gray, a Dubliner with a heart of gold, has dedicated over thirty years to hosting coffee mornings in support of her local Hospice. What started as a small gesture of raising £22 in her first year has snowballed into an impressive total of over €43,000 raised for St Francis Hospice in Raheny. May’s unwavering dedication and commitment to the cause have not gone unnoticed, and she now urges the next generation to carry on her legacy of giving back.
Inspiring Beginnings and Fond Memories
May Gray’s journey with hosting Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning for Hospice began out of a desire to support her local community and the exceptional work being done at St Francis Hospice. Over the years, May poured her heart and soul into organizing the annual event, baking scones at the crack of dawn and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all who attended.
Reflecting on her years of hosting, May recalls the sense of community that the coffee mornings fostered. “It was always a lovely gathering, but I wouldn’t be able to do it again,” she humbly admits. Her husband, Stephen, played a crucial role in ensuring the event ran smoothly, from managing the newly installed door to gently ushering guests out at the end of the day.
A Legacy of Giving Back
While May has retired from hosting the coffee mornings, her impact continues to be felt in the community. Local residents still remember her annual events fondly and continue to make donations in her honor. May is grateful for the generosity of those who support the cause and ensures that every donation goes directly to the Hospice, where it can make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families.
Supporting Hospice Care Nationwide
The Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning for Hospice is not just a local event but a nationwide initiative coordinated by Together for Hospice, The National Hospice Movement. This beloved event brings communities together to raise funds for 24 Hospice and specialist palliative homecare providers across Ireland. Funds raised through the coffee mornings stay local and directly benefit each Hospice service, allowing them to innovate, expand facilities, develop new services, and enhance the quality of care provided to patients and their loved ones.
Encouraging Others to Get Involved
May Gray’s message to the next generation is clear: keep the spirit of giving alive and continue to support causes that make a difference in your community. By registering to host a coffee morning on Thursday, September 26, or choosing a date that suits you, individuals can contribute to the vital work of their local Hospice. Hosting a coffee morning is not just about raising funds; it’s about coming together as a community, sharing stories, and supporting one another in times of need.
How to Get Involved
For those interested in hosting a Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning for Hospice, registration is simple. Visit hospicecoffeemorning.ie or call 0818 995 996 to sign up and receive all the necessary materials to host a successful event. If hosting a coffee morning is not feasible, individuals can still make a difference by making a donation at hospicecoffeemorning.ie/donate. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps to ensure that Hospice care remains accessible and compassionate for all those in need.
Join the Cause
May Gray’s dedication to fundraising for Hospice care serves as a shining example of the impact that one person can have on their community. By following in her footsteps and hosting a coffee morning or making a donation, individuals can play a part in supporting the essential services provided by Hospice organizations nationwide. Together, we can continue to make a difference and ensure that quality end-of-life care is available to all who need it.