Date published: 16 June 2016 by Jessica Homer
A mum supported by Rainbow Trust attended Surbiton’s Gymboree class on Wednesday 25 May to officially launch the new partnership between the Gymboree and Rainbow Trust, who supports her family in caring for her seriously ill son Rian.
Jenny Nolan attended the Gymboree session in Surbiton with her nine month old baby, Kian. Jenny’s five year old Rian has a life threatening condition called Menkes Disease and receives support from her Rainbow Trust Family Support Worker who provides emotional and practical support that the family needs, sibling support to Kian and four year old Lauren, alongside medical care, to face each day as it comes.
Together with other local mums, Jenny took part in Gymboree’s special session to launch the year-long partnership and bring to life the work of the charity.
Jenny said,
“I really understand just how vital Rainbow Trust is for families with a seriously ill child like Rian. Our Rainbow Trust Family Support Worker, Lyn, is there to help us emotionally and practically whenever we need her. I’m not sure how we would continue functioning without her – she really is a lifeline. I’m so pleased to be able to promote this partnership with Gymboree and I’m sure it will raise a wonderful amount of money for such a special charity.”
Gymboree, the world’s foremost provider of children’s developmental programmes, has committed all of its annual fundraising efforts across all 31 sites, to help Rainbow Trust support more families with a life threatened or terminally ill child.
Gymboree will host themed parties across the country and take part in Rainbow Trust events throughout the year in a bid to raise thousands of pounds. Both organisations are celebrating milestone birthdays in 2016, with Gymboree turning 40 and Rainbow Trust celebrating 30 years of care.
Rainbow Trust’s Care Team in Surrey supports families caring for a child with a serious illness. The team of Family Support Workers support families in 1001 small ways, they support the whole family; from their child’s diagnosis, during treatment and, if needed, through bereavement and beyond.
Susannah Sloman, Managing Director at Gymboree, said:
“We’re all about children at Gymboree, and giving them the best possible start in life. Sometimes things don’t go to plan and that’s where Rainbow Trust comes in, being there at those difficult times to support families through the tough times. We are delighted that all of the events to celebrate Gymboree’s 40th birthday are raising money for Rainbow Trust this year.”
Emma Haines, Director of Marketing and Fundraising at Rainbow Trust, said:
“We are absolutely delighted to have officially launched the partnership between Gymboree and Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity. The partnership will have a huge impact for Rainbow Trust, enabling us to support more families who have a child with a life threatening or terminal illness.”