Three siblings from Salford are hosting their second annual fundraiser in Walkden in memory of their mum.
The trio of Ashley, Jessica and Beth will be hosting their charity fundraiser at the Walkden Legion on Sunday 25 May.
All donations from the fundraiser event will be going to Headway Salford – a local charity that focuses on supporting people who suffering from acquired brain injuries.
The local supported their Mum, Michelle Done, after a fall she was found to have had a pre-existing brain aneurysm that remained dormant, and after being placed in critical care she was slowly returning to full health.
Michelle sadly passed away on the 21st June 2023 after a second bleed to brain before she was able to recover – however, after he untimely death the family wanted to turn her loss into positive action.
Last year, they hosted their first event at the Walkden Legion on Saturday 22 June 2024, using the anniversary of her passing to celebrate her life.
And after raising £1,300 during the event – they will be hosting it again this May – to continue raising money for Headway Salford.
Ashley Johnson-Done said: “My mum was the backbone of our family now we all have to step up, so we have big shoes to fill but a task we are up for.
“We will keep going for our mum and the charity, and remember what our chelle would always say ‘its nice to be nice'”
And after the success of last years event, they have had to organise a bigger room, as Ashley added: “We have had too get a bigger room this year, because we saw so much support last year from across the region, and also making room for the DJ.
“With more people coming along this year, we hope to raise more money than last year.”
“I think last year with the money we raised we shocked Headway, and they have been ever so supportive of us. I believe that a few members of staff will come along too, which is great.”
The fundraiser event has also been used to bring families and friends back together, with it being hosted at the Walkden Legion.
“It is a place that is familiar to us, we used to go there as a family and watch the football, and it really is a good way of bringing us all together.”
“It is bringing friends from Warwickshire, and it is bringing them back together. It shows what a character she was, as so many people were sincere and came along to support us and it is amazing.”
Ashley continued: “All my mums friends, and all the social workers that I now work with, and she knew are coming along. She had such an impact on so many people’s lives.”
And it is a true testament to Michelle, as he continued: “So many people are chipping into help this year, whether that’s helping on the tombola, bringing food for guests, people really have got behind it – making us sandwiches, curries, and chillies.”
And even those who can’t attend will also be looking to support the best they can, as Ashley continued: “One of my mums friends can’t come this year, but she is making us a load of pies to freeze, and cook before the event.
“It is a testament to how much my mum was loved, and how many people are willing to support her.
“It is touching people, and seeing how generous the community has been to support us, with local businesses donating to the day.”
He added: “Yes, we may not raise as much money each year, but it is really bringing the community together and making a last memory for my mum.
“It isn’t just for us, it is so important and so good for so many people.”
And the contribution has also seen local clubs Manchester United and Manchester City donate some items for the charity.
“The clubs have been able to provide us with pennants and memorabilia – and hopefully that helps the donations.”
Throughout the event, there will also be a chance for people to compete in a series of events, as they will be hosting a charity pool, snooker, and darts tournament.
As well as offering up a ‘lucky dip’ for children to win prizes, as it promises to be a lovely day for family and friends.
The event will take place on Sunday 25 May at the Walkden Legion, and will start from 2pm.
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