A THOUSAND hand-made butterflies are set to emerge from the historic walls of Coventry Cathedral as The Myton Hospices embarks on its most ambitious fund-raising campaign to date.
Hoping to harness the power of ‘The Butterfly Effect’ the charity and project partners ARUP have created a 3D installation of butterflies – inspired by the Tower of London poppies – which will be on display at the cathedral from July 19 to August 2.
Each limited edition butterfly – costing £30 – will ‘celebrate the life’ of a loved one and, after forming part of the installation, be returned to families to treasure forever.
The Butterfly Effect suggests that even the smallest action can create a ripple with far-reaching effects.
And hospice chiefs are hoping the campaign will not only raise vital money directly, but will also have a lasting impact on awareness and fund-raising moving forward.
This will enable it to continue its work supporting terminally ill patients and their loved ones at its three hospices in Coventry, Rugby and Warwick.
The campaign is being spearheaded by former Casualty, Waterloo Road and Doctors actress Holly Matthews whose husband Ross Blair died at Myton’s Warwick Hospice in 2017 following a brave brain tumour battle.
Ross, the son of ex-Coventry City player Andy Blair, was just 32 when he died, leaving behind Holly and their two daughters, Brooke and Texas, who were just six and four at the time.
Ms Matthews said: “I felt a huge sense of relief when Myton enabled me to be a wife again, to be there for the small, flitting moments of Ross being Ross.
“Myton provided a safe place for my young family to play and laugh – a place of warmth and support for us all.
“I hope that you will join me, my family and others in becoming part of The Butterfly Effect.
“Together we can help to make sure Myton will be there for more people like us, who need their support, now and in the future.”
Myton chief executive Ruth Freeman was excited about the campaign.
She added: “As well being a sight to behold at Coventry Cathedral, will help us spread our message about the services we offer here at Myton, who we support and how you can help.
“By buying one of these beautiful butterflies, you will not only be a part of this amazing installation, but will help play a part in the future of our hospices, our patients and their families.”
Visit www.mytonhospice.org/butterflyeffect to find out more and to buy a butterfly.
