Creating Memories Fund

Since the foundation of Anam Cara Fasgadh, our Trustees have collaborated with High School students via the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative to enhance the charity's funds, aims and ambitions.

In 2022, our co-founder Susan Simpson engaged with a group of S5 students at Oban High School to create a Travel Fund. The exceptional team, comprising Beckie, Charis, Lei, Arden, and Tilly, advanced to the finals with their research, presentation and concept. However, they were narrowly outperformed by the team representing the remarkable Dove Centre Oban Hospice. Consequently, the Trustees chose to temporarily withdraw from the initiative to concentrate on the fundamental services of Poppy’s Place and our yearly memorial events. The students continued to volunteer at memorial events for the charity, where they demonstrated remarkable empathy and understanding towards families grieving the loss of a baby, child, or young person, leaving a lasting impression on the Trustees.

We realise that the journey through grief after a child's death is deeply challenging and lifelong and as a team our pledge is to ensure that no family faces this journey alone and that they are enveloped in love and care when they come to us. Our mission is to give families who have endured the loss of a baby, child, or young person a chance to forge enduring memories by exploring local sights and taking trips in the area.

So in August 2024, our cofounders Andrew and Susan, with assistance from Youth Champions Charis and Noah, resurrected the fund, and came up with the Creating Memories Fund - all in memory of their Heavenly children Alex and Eilidh Beth. They hope the initiative will provide further solace, empathy, and assistance to families mourning the death of a baby, child or young person.

The loss of a child can make time seem to stand still, and the initial shock and pain are often intense and persistent. Poppy’s Place offers a sanctuary for families to find peace and tranquillity, to reflect on their loss, and to create meaningful memories with their child in mind. But during these economically challenging times, Anam Cara Fasgadh aims to give each family a significant experience during their stay, whether it's exploring Inveraray Castle, taking a boat trip to see dolphins and local wildlife, or hiking to spot sea eagles, all the while supporting local enterprises and organisations.

Andrew, Susan, Charis and Noah, with cofounder Michael, are collaborating with High Schools across Scotland through their YPI initiative to accomplish this goal and would appreciate your support. It is an especially poignant campaign for the Simpson family as their children would now be in High School had they lived ~ Alex in S6 and Eilidh Beth in S3.

To contribute to the Creating Memories Fund and assist us in providing bereaved families with the opportunity to enjoy the best of what Argyll has to offer, please click the link above or below.