‘Magical’ North Devon nannie will be remembered this Christmas

A beloved nannie who was ‘at the centre of everything magical’ for her grandchildren will be remembered this Christmas as part of North Devon Hospice’s Light Up a Life appeal.

Memories of lost loved ones can be even stronger during the festive season and the hospice is inviting local people to remember someone they miss by dedicating a star in their honour on a special Christmas tree at Barnstaple Pannier Market.

Lauren Eddie is one of hundreds of people taking part in the appeal this year and is remembering her greatly-missed nannie, Jill Eddie.

Above: Lauren Eddie was very close to her nannie Jill. Credit: Lauren Eddie

Lauren said: “From dancing the Waltz of the Flowers, to watching me and my sister perform shows, she was there for it all.

“Nannie made me and my sister costumes and I'll never forget the birthday where she baked me a pink Barbie birthday cake. She poured love into every detail of my childhood.”

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When Jill was suddenly faced with a life-limiting illness last year, she met it with courage and dignity. North Devon Hospice cared for her in those final weeks, providing support the family will never forget.

Above: Jill Eddie is much-missed by her family. Credit: Lauren Eddie

Lauren continued: “They didn't just care for Nannie, they cared for all of us. They created an environment where she was comfortable and surrounded by love. The compassion of North Devon Hospice’s care teams held our family together when everything felt overwhelming.

“There isn't a day that goes by where I don't miss her. Her gentle smile, her encouragement, her strength, they shaped the person I am today.”

Above: A Barbie cake baked by Jill for one of Lauren’s birthdays remains a cherished memory. Credit: Lauren Eddie

As well as the chance to dedicate a star on the Light Up a Life Christmas trees, there is also free Christmas concert hosted by the hospice at the Pannier Market on Thursday, December 18, where the trees will be illuminated and a beautiful light show with transform the market ceiling into a sky of stars.

The concert starts at 6pm and will feature live music from several local performers as well as festive food and drink.

Lizzie Hanks, head of fundraising at the hospice, said that Up a Life is a source of real comfort to so many at this time of year.

She said: “There is something very special about writing a name or a message on of our stars, and then being able to see it shine alongside hundreds of others. It reminds us that we’re not alone in missing someone we love at this time of year.

“Every donation made in memory will also help North Devon Hospice care for local people this Christmas who need it most. We’re so grateful to people like Lauren, and everyone who has supported this year’s appeal.”

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For Lauren, sharing her own Light Up a Life story is her way of honouring her nannie and thanking North Devon Hospice for their kindness during her family's hardest moments.

She added: “Their work makes moments of peace and connection possible for families like mine, and I will always be grateful.”

If you would like to remember someone special this Christmas, dedicate a star to be placed on the Light Up a Life Christmas trees by going to https://www.northdevonhospice.org.uk/light or visit the North Devon Hospice stand at Barnstaple Pannier Market during late-night shopping on Thursday evenings in the run-up to Christmas.