AN inspirational father and son from Rednal will be attending BBC Radio WM’s prestigious Make a Difference Awards as finalists in recognition of their support for Birmingham Hospice.
Stephen and Curtis Pugh have been nominated in the Fundraising category for their commitment to helping the hospice and will attend the awards at the Birmingham Hippodrome in September.
They were informed by BBC presenter Ed James on his show that they had been chosen as finalists.
with BBC Radio WM presenter Ed James.
The Make a Difference Awards recognises the achievements of local people who have gone above and beyond to improve the lives of others.
Stephen said: “I don’t know what to say or feel because it was such a surprise. It’s an honour and I must admit I did cry when we were told we were finalists.
“Every day for the last ten years we’ve been sorting things and making phone calls, but we don’t do it for recognition we do it to help people.
“It can be a lonely journey when you are terminally ill so if we can put a smile on somebody’s face that is enough or us.”
The pair have supported the hospice for nearly a decade through their charity Tracey’s Dream, which was founded in honour of their much-loved wife and mother who was cared for by Birmingham Hospice’s Inpatient Unit (IPU) in 2016.
Over the years this dynamic duo has donated thousands of pounds worth of goods to the hospice. They have also built a partnership with our Personal Health Budget (PHB) Team, which delivers items, services or experiences that positively impact those with a life-limiting condition.
The duo work with PHB to identify the items patients require, and source the best value products from wholesalers and online.
In January this year, they donated a large number of quilts, toiletries and other items, which were given to those cared for in their own home and the community by the hospice. The quilts also helped to keep IPU patients warm during the cold snap.
“I feel so proud, emotional and honoured. If mom was here today, she would be saying ‘that’s my boys, you are making me proud’,” commented Curtis, who also holds workshops to help hospice staff have a better understanding of hidden disabilities.
Kate Miley, from our PHB Team, said: “I am so proud of Stephen and Curtis, who help all our teams. Nothing is too much trouble for them; they never say no and always find a way to help.”
Watch the moment Stephen and Curtis learned they were finalists for BBC Radio WM’s Make a Difference Awards
