A LOCAL man’s foundation to fundraise for children suffering with bereavement is continuing to raise funds. The latest event, a charity bingo night, raised £3,274, and the foundation leader, Nick Jones, has more exciting events planned.
Nick has experienced heart problems since 2012 after a small stroke. He was later diagnosed with malignant hypertension, which attacks the heart and internal organs. He is now being supported by the Dorothy House team for end-of-life planning.
He has set up a foundation in his name, ‘The Nick Jones Foundation for Bereaved Children’ to ensure that his children and other young people have the guidance and support they need when dealing with the loss of parents, family members and friends.
Previous events held to raise money for the foundation including the ‘Night to Remember’ which raised over £7,000. Nick was joined at the event by celebrity Peter Andre, who has become the foundation’s ambassador.
The latest charity bingo evening at Players Bar, was held last month, drawing in huge crowds,and raising £3,274 for the charity foundation.
Nick told the White Horse News, “It was a crazy time and I can’t put into words how much it helps. Westbury is such a little town and for people to all come together and raise so much money, it really is incredible.
“My mission is to put a positive spin on my situation. People do die and it’s not fair, but I need to help turn it around. If what I am doing can help, be empathetic towards people and understand where they are coming from, then I’m succeeding in fulfilling my goal. I do hope to still be around for all of the next upcoming events, but I just don’t know. All I do know is that they will happen regardless and end up helping out a lot of kids in need.”
Nick Jones and his team are currently planning various fundraising events on their journey to climb Everest in October. They will tackle the Three Peaks Challenge on Sunday 22nd July where they will climb Ben Nevis, Mount Snowden and Scafell Pike all in a 24-hour period.
They are also looking to complete a road walk from Westbury to Frome in August and prepare themselves for the Everest challenge with a pre-climb party on Friday 28th September at the Cheese and Grain in Frome.
“We are not a bucket shaker foundation,” Nick continued, “It’s not about me or my condition, it’s all about what we can do to help out those children in need.”
Above: Nick Jones addresses the crowds during his charity bingo evening.
