A deaf Fordingbridge resident has raised £1,000 for an asbestos-related lung cancer support charity.
Rachel Parker started her fundraising journey Christmas 2023, reaching her goal by April.
Born profoundly deaf following the contraction of German measles and meningitis, Parker faced daily struggles but received considerable support from the local Nationwide Bank.
She was determined to fundraise for HASAG Asbestos Disease Support, a Southampton-based charity serving Southern England, London and the Home Counties.
The cause is close to Parker’s heart since the charity helped her father who had asbestos-related lung cancer.
Parker, a mother-of-three and skilled artist, designed original paintings, Christmas decorations, greeting cards, and calendars, which were conspicuously displayed for sale in the bank's windows.
She also promoted the charity and fundraised at local events in Fordingbridge and Martin with help from her art teacher, Charlotte Burleigh. Importantly, Parker undertook sourcing materials, handcrafting the decorations, and delivering the cards herself.
Some of her original artwork featured at Avonway Community Centre and the Arch Clinic in Fordingbridge. Two original painting sales hugely boosted her fundraising efforts, moving her closer to the £1000 goal.
On May 2, Katherine Easen, manager of the Nationwide Fordingbridge Team, organised a ceremony in which Parker handed a cheque to HASAG representative, Steve Squibb.
Katherine Easen, said: "As a team we’ve been really proud to have been able to display this wonderful local artist’s work – we love the designs.
"It’s truly heartwarming that so many local people wanted to support this worthy cause and we can’t thank them all enough.”
Steve Squibb said: "Mesothelioma Research is desperately needed to find a way to treat this devastating and currently incurable lung condition.
"This money will support research and help families as they cope with the news that someone they love has got this disease through no fault of their own and to raise awareness of the dangers posed by asbestos.
"Thank you so much to Rachel, to Nationwide Fordingbridge and to everyone who’s contributed. We are so pleased that her father is still with us and can enjoy her success too."
Despite her inability to work or drive, Parker's relentless efforts and creativity resulted in a significant contribution to a cause she holds dear.
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