Optalis Team Member, Emma Spreads Holiday Cheer with Annual Christmas Dress-Up Fundraiser

Emma, a dedicated team member from The Birches Extra Care service at Optalis, has once again gone above and beyond to bring joy and laughter to the residents and staff. Emma's annual Christmas dress-up tradition not only raises spirits but also raises funds for causes close to her heart. This year, she outdid herself completing an entire shift dressed as a spectacular giant inflatable walking Christmas tree.

The highlight of Emma's festive tradition is not just the amusing spectacle but the heartfelt purpose behind it. Each year, she selects a charity that has impacted the life (or lives) of people she supports, in their honour. This year, Emma chose to support the Berkshire Cancer Centre at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in memory of a resident she supported, who sadly passed away earlier in the year after battling cancer.

Emma's efforts have resulted in a total of £235 being raise for the Berkshire Cancer Centre, so far. Over the past four years, Emma has donned various costumes, each representing a charity linked to the customers Optalis cares for or has cared for in the past. The cumulative impact of Emma's fundraising efforts has exceeded £1000, a remarkable achievement.

Emma's charitable initiatives over the years include:

2019/2020: Giant Turkey and Elf for Alzheimer’s - £315

2021: Santa/Elf Riding a Reindeer for Ataxia - £240

2022: Inflatable Santa Carrying an Elf for Motor Neurons Disease - £410

2023: Giant Inflatable Christmas Tree for Berkshire Cancer Centre – currently £235 (with donations still coming in)

For those inspired to contribute to the cause, donations to the Berkshire Cancer Centre can be made online at www.royalberkscharity.co.uk, including the reference number U382.