Flamboyant Tess Darby has brought fabulous fantasy to Birmingham Hospice by donating a host of stunning Alice in Wonderland costumes as a thank you for the care she has received.
The former Solihull Youth Theatre artistic director has been attending the Living Well Centre (LWC) for over a year after being diagnosed with COPD, which had been triggered by a bout of Covid.
The illness meant the normally energetic and creative Tess, who helped generations realise their dreams of performing on the stage, was left breathless and in pain.
But attending weekly sessions at the LWC has given her a much-needed boost.
Tess relishes talking to fellow patients, taking part in activities and interacting with the caring LWC Team, who are always available for a chat.
She said: “Coming to the centre does me the world of good, because otherwise I would be isolated.
“Lucy and Tammy have been marvelous. Especially for the first six months when I felt all I did was moan and cry, but they were perfect about it.”
the Living Well Centre have been
delighted by the Alice in
Wonderland costumes.
Tess loves to play quizzes and word games, which spark conversations with her friends.
As a thank you, she has generously given the hospice costumes made especially for a production of Alice in Wonderland which she had directed, including The Queen of Hearts, Alice and many more.
Several of these fantastic outfits have also been displayed in the LWC, bringing joy and magic to our patients.
Tess added: “The costumes were made by myself and a friend and have been stored in boxes for several years. It’s wonderful that they have been put to good use by the hospice.”
Would you be able to support our mission to ensure people at the end of their lives or living with a terminal illness receive the care and dignity they deserve? Your support through donations, fundraising or volunteering allows Birmingham Hospice to help people when they need it the most.
