A FAMILY have shared their story to help a charity launch its Christmas campaign.

The Light Up A Life appeal by Saint Catherine’s Hospice in Scarborough aims to raise much-needed funds for the charity.

Mark Rooke, who lives near Helmsley, has shared his family’s story as part of the annual festive campaign.

Jenny Rooke, who founded Beadlam Grange with her husband Mark, died in February 2019, aged 62, after a short battle with cancer.

“We were blessed when Jenny was given a bed at Saint Catherine’s,” said Mark.

“I would stay for two nights and two days, then our daughter Helen would do the same. That’s how we did it all the way through.

“We couldn’t have wished for anything more.

“Jenny slept a lot and was very peaceful, but whenever she woke up I had my lovely Jenny back.

“I just think unless you’ve had an experience like this as a family, it’s hard to realise the impact Saint Catherine’s has on patients and their loved ones.

“I don’t know what we’d have done without Saint Catherine’s and I’m forever grateful for the precious time they gave us with Jenny.”

Saint Catherine’s is unable to run any Light Up A Life services this year due to the current coronavirus restrictions.

The charity is now inviting supporters to share messages of remembrance and love by writing a memory on a Light Up A Life baubles, which have been posted out to regular supporters.

The baubles will then be displayed in Saint Catherine’s shop windows over the Christmas period.

“We hope that our Light Up A Life appeal will bring everyone together this Christmas with the shared goal of giving the greatest gift there is - the gift of care,” added Susan Stephenson, communications and marketing manager for the charity.

“Thank you to all our supporters, old and new, for everything you do in aid of Saint Catherine’s.”

To donate, visit saintcatherines.org.uk/how-you-can-help-us/make-a-donation