MOST seven-year-olds have a long list of birthday wishes….but Ethan Hulse wanted to give rather than receive.
Instead of receiving birthday presents, Ethan asked that donations should be made to St Luke’s in memory of family friend Norman Goodwin, who was one of our patients.
Norman and his wife Doreen were neighbours of Ethan and his mum and dad when they lived in Greystones, Sheffield and it was a friendship that continued when the Hulses relocated to Stockport.
“The Goodwin family accepted us from the word go and Norman even walked me down the aisle on my wedding day as my father passed away when I was very young,” mum Carmelah explained.
“Ethan had obviously known Norman since birth and it was his own idea to do something special in his memory and set himself a goal of £200, including asking for donations at his party rather than presents.”
Ethan said: “My friend Norman was lots and lots of fun and made me laugh lots and told me lots of stories about when he was a little boy.
“I decided I did not want presents but wanted to make lots of money to help look after poorly people like Norman.”
Our Community Fundraising Assistant Karan Taylor commented: “Everybody at St Luke’s was overwhelmed when we heard about Ethan and his incredible story.
“Ethan must be one of youngest fundraisers and he is very happy that this very special birthday treat will be making a great difference to the lives of St Luke’s patients.”