Carolyn

Carolyn shares how volunteering helps her to remember her daughter Jessica, who died when she was 21 months old

In 2008, our life as we knew it, the life that made us happy and secure, disappeared forever. Jessica, my little angel, drowned aged 21 months old after spending the day at a friend’s house with my three children in their swimming pool.

None of us can know if or when our lives might be suddenly ripped to shreds, not knowing who to turn to or where to find help. I would like all families in my unfortunate situation to have access to the support they need to make life bearable again.

Volunteering makes me feel like I am doing something to remember Jessica. I can’t feed, bath, play or cuddle Jessica so every moment I volunteer or fundraise is what I call my ‘Jessica time’.

Never did I think that I would be so passionate about volunteering at events like the Let’s Rock festivals, or fundraising at events we’ve organised ourselves, but the satisfaction and personal achievement I have had from keeping my daughter’s memory alive and raising over £80,000 for Child Bereavement UK has been amazing.

Living when your child has died is unbearable; every day can be a marathon. In our new and unfamiliar lives, the help and support of Child Bereavement UK made a real difference. I would urge anyone that has lost a precious person in their life or a friend or family member to get involved in volunteering. You can feel proud in the knowledge you are helping an amazing organisation and have lots of fun whilst you are doing it.

Carolyn is a Patron of Child Bereavement UK, visit her Patron's page to find out more.

If you have been inspired to volunteer with us, please visit our volunteer jobs board, or contact our volunteering team on [email protected]

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