A charity set up in memory of a six-month-old West Cumbrian girl has raised more than £450,000.
Team Evie was created by Greg and Jill Johnston after Evie died. During her short life, she battled a number of complex health problems.
The charity and its supporters marked the sixth anniversary of Evie’s death by going green for Evie. Green was her favourite colour.
Greg and Jill said: “The fact Evie stayed with us for six months was a miracle considering everything she faced, and we can never thank her enough for the time she gave us.
“As a bereaved parent it is a huge worry that people will forget about your child or stop talking about them.
“The pictures we see of everyone wearing green each year are such a poignant reminder that Evie will never be forgotten and that everyone loves her. It means so much to us, it is difficult to put into words.”
In the six years since Evie’s passing, Team Evie with the help of many supporters have raised over £450,000 which has been used to; fund medical equipment and provide training that has saved children’s lives, make time in hospital easier for sick children and reduce anxiety for families and to support bereaved parents in their time of need.
Every penny donated to the registered charity goes towards helping sick children and their families who face similar challenges to those Evie faced in her all too short life.
The charity holds a number of vital fundraising events every year, including its Santa Dash which this year will be held at Workington Cricket Club, and the Three Lakes Walk challenge which will see participants walking 29 miles around Ennerdale, Crummock Water and Buttermere.
Throughout Evie’s life, Greg would share Facebook updates of her progress and struggles with friends, family members and the local community.
The couple added: “It rapidly became apparent that Evie had quite a following of well-wishers and based on the daily greeting one consultant would give the family, the name Team Evie was here to stay.
“So many people sent love, support and hope Evie’s way during her life and she inspired so many people.
“Evie’s influence and inspiration spread far and wide, reaching people all over the world. When Evie passed away it became clear that as a community Team Evie needed to continue her positive impact on the world and the charity was created.”
