A grieving family have donated Lego to Mountbatten in memory of their son James, who sadly passed away on 2nd September, aged just 22.
James Carpenter was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of 13. He was visiting family when taken ill on August Bank Holiday Monday and spent his final days at St Mary’s Hospital.
Mr Carpenter worked as a personal assistant for children with special educational needs, helping to transport them to and from school. He was also a scout leader in his spare time.
James’ mother Jane said:
“We would like to focus on James’ legacy and how much Lego meant to him. Lego was a huge part of James’ life; he was interested in it from a young age. Lego helped him relax and forget about hospital life; it made him feel calm on tough days.”
Mrs Carpenter decided to donate Lego to Island and mainland charities in memory of her son. To this end, she has set up a GoFundMe page.
Jane added:
“We have asked for Lego donations to be shared amongst the charities and hospitals that have cared for James. Everyone has been so generous, and we can’t thank you enough.
Article continues below this advertisement “I am now trying to raise a little more to purchase an amazing Lego lighthouse that will go to an Isle of Wight charity in James’ memory.
“The Isle of Wight Mountbatten Hospice have just set up a Lego group called Build and Banter for males going through a cancer diagnosis. This group would have been right up James’ street!”
Jane’s GoFundMe page has raised over £1,500 to date.
As well as donating to Mountbatten, Jane will be gifting Lego to the Isle of Wight Kissy Puppy charity – which helps children with life-limiting conditions – and the Brainy Bunch – for people suffering from brain tumours. Donations will also be made to the Emily Ash Trust – which helps children connected with the Royal Marsden Hospital – and the Rainbow Trust children’s charity.
Mary Banks – who received the Lego donations on behalf of Mountbatten – has said.
“The Lego kits will be used for a variety of purposes. It will be good for the men’s Build and Banter group as it will give them something to focus on and an opportunity to talk and share each other’s company. It can also keep younger visitors to the hospice occupied.
“If anyone would like to make a donation to the hospice, please get in contact via the website, and you will be put through to the appropriate department.”
The Mountbatten website can be found here.
