Founders of Moray charity Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation honoured with award from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak
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TWO Moray women who tragically lost their daughter and granddaughter to cancer have received an award from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in recognition of their outstanding volunteer work.
Elgin resident Tammy Main and her mum Jennie Cameron have raised over £770,000 to support children with cancer.
Their remarkable efforts have been recognised with the Points of Light award which is given to people who inspire others and make a positive change in their community.
Tammy’s daughter Abbie died from sarcoma, a rare cancer that develops in the bones and soft tissues, on Christmas Day in 2017. She was just 15 years old.
Before she passed, one of her wishes was to create a charity to fundraise for hospitals and help children undergoing treatment.
Soon after, Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation was formed with Tammy and Jennie acting as manager and ambassador for the charity.
They have supported 1697 children with gifts, treats, experiences and grants known as “sparkles” which are delivered to hospitals across Scotland.
The charity also provides respite breaks at “Abbie’s Sparkle Lodge” in the Cairngorms National Park.
Fundraising is vital to the charity. It regularly hosts pop up shops, yoga retreats and ceilidhs.
And last year the charity organised a special celebration on what would have been Abbie’s 21st birthday. The event raised over £37,000.
“This is quite something to take in,” Tammy said after receiving the award.
“We do work hard for Abbie to support children affected by cancer and just get on with that day to day, never really expecting recognition.
“When I shared the fantastic news with Jennie, there were a couple of “sparkly” tears knowing that Abbie’s inspirational legacy was going to be awarded in this way.
“A proud day for our family, friends and our team, for me as her mum and for our beautiful Abbie.”
Jennie added: “I am honoured to accept this award and to volunteer for my granddaughter Abbie’s legacy to support other children suffering from cancer.
“It is a great comfort to know we are making a difference in her memory.”
Tammy and Jennie are the 2299th and 2300th recipients of the Points of Light award.
Each weekday, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their achievements.
