What's Happening?
The Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation (PPBF) has initiated a community appeal to collect 10,000 Lego pieces for a memorial bench in honor of Matthew Girard, a young boy from Guernsey who passed away from cancer in 2020. The bench, which will be located
at St Martin's Primary School, aims to serve as a tribute to Matthew, who was a fan of Lego and Star Wars. The foundation is seeking pre-loved two by four Lego bricks, flat top plates for comfort, and Star Wars Lego mini figures. Jo Priaulx, co-founder of the PPBF, emphasized the importance of the project in helping the family and the community remember Matthew. The initiative also includes a Lego-themed children's bedroom in Frankie's Den, a facility near Southampton Hospital dedicated to Matthew.
Why It's Important?
This initiative highlights the role of community support in the grieving process and the importance of memorials in honoring the memory of loved ones. By involving the community in the collection of Lego pieces, the project fosters a sense of unity and collective remembrance. It also underscores the therapeutic potential of creative projects in providing comfort to bereaved families. The memorial bench not only serves as a tribute to Matthew but also encourages children to connect and play, reinforcing the idea of community involvement in healing and remembrance.
What's Next?
The PPBF aims to complete the memorial bench by the summer, with ongoing support from local community members and organizations like Guernsey Lego. The foundation continues to encourage donations of Lego pieces and support for the project. As the bench takes shape, it is expected to become a focal point for community gatherings and a symbol of collective memory and support for families dealing with loss.
