Donations pour in for Watford woman with terminal cancer

A fundraiser was launched to help Helen Lock, of Ross Crescent, Watford, fulfil her 'living list' of things she wants to do before she dies, which has so far received nearly £2,000.

Among the things she wanted to do was create a 'zen zone' in her garden where she could relax with her children.

Her friend and neighbour Kelly Hallett, who set up the fundraiser, said: “I went to see Helen after they realised they weren’t going to continue treatment.

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“She had a bucket list that we called a living list.

“Most of us want grand, exciting, expensive adventures, but Helen’s list humbled me.

“All she wanted was a zen area in her garden, to go on holiday with her children to Haven, swim in a lake and see as many friends and family members as possible.

“There was nothing outrageous.

“I came home and thought we have got to make it happen.”

Friends have started work on Helen's garden. Kelly Hallett is pictured in the middle of the back row. Picture: Kelly Hallett

The fundraiser was started on August 4 and has already reached £1,918.

Part of the garden has already been dug out so the zen zone can be created for Helen.  

Ms Hallett added: “Even if people aren’t able to donate things or money, they have been able to donate their time. People are so kind.

“We’ve got about 10 people coming around on Sunday to finish the work. Two of those are strangers.

“All Helen wants is somewhere to sit and relax with her three children and be with nature.”

The plan is to decorate the zen area with artificial grass and waterproof covers so that Helen, 45, can enjoy the area in all weathers.

Work has already begun on the zen area of the garden. Picture: Kelly Hallett

It will also be decorated with lights, ornaments and a hammock that was donated.

So far, a day spa has been donated for Helen to use and her friends are taking her to Bournemouth for a day trip. 

The main thing that is now needed is a skip for the garden work, said Ms Hallett. 

Ms Hallett said: “Helen is overwhelmed by the response.

“She cried. It will change her life and that of her kids. They can all go away together.

“She was a bit worried about seeming to ask for money. But I said, ‘you haven’t asked for anything we have’.

“And Helen would give anybody anything.”

The plan is to try and complete the list within two months. 

If you would like to make a donation, contact Ms Hallett here https://www.facebook.com/donate/450119770336511/3208247429439434/. 

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