A mum whose daughter receives “invaluable” care from a leading children’s charity says she was excited and honoured to open its new shop in Cambridge.
Lisa Ayton and 13-year-old Abbie cut the ribbon at East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices’ (EACH) latest store in Fitzroy Street.
Abbie has a rare gene mutation which has created a number of other health complications, including epilepsy and hypertonia.
She been receiving care since she was a year old and her family are regulars at EACH’s Milton hospice.
Speaking after this morning’s ribbon-cutting, Lisa said: “We were pleased and excited to be asked. My first reaction was ‘oh wow’.
“EACH is such an important charity and one that’s made such a difference to our family. It’s been an absolute saviour.
“Abbie enjoys doing arts and crafts, messy play and spending time in the sensory room.
“For me, it’s just lovely knowing she’s safe and happy. It means I can relax and take a break, recharge my batteries and catch my breath.
“I feel I’ve got more energy when she comes home again and that’s such an invaluable feeling.
“It was a real honour to be invited along today and I know Abbie enjoyed it. She’s non-verbal but has her own way of communicating, including lots of sounds, and her personality shines through. She enjoys seeing people and loves being the centre of attention!”
Lisa, 39, and Abbie live in Cherry Hinton, close to another EACH shop. There are more in Ely, Huntingdon, March, Soham, St Ives and Whittlesey, as well as three other Cambridge stores in Cherry Hinton Road, Histon Road and Milton Road.
The charity’s new outlet in Fitzroy Street is being managed by Ukrainian Olena Kulaieva.
The 43-year-old said: “I’m excited and looking forward to it very much. It’s a new door opening for me – a step up in my career – and I can’t wait to start applying my skills and experience in a brand new shop.”
Olena is keen to hear from anyone interested in joining her volunteer team.
For more information, pop in for a chat or email Olena.Kulaieva@each.org.uk
