Gifts for Peace Report
Last night members and leaders from the Scout movement from all over Devon got together in Exeter in A Dragons Den style debate asking for funding and support for various charities close to their hearts. Each person gave a thrilling and sometimes thought provoking talk on charities as far wide as seashepard.org an international charity that stands up for the wildlife of our oceans and there protection to the Lions club that actively supports an impressive number of local charities and good causes in almost every community.
After each speech the audience was allowed to question the speakers on the ins and outs of there favoured charity. One charity really did hit home with a lot of people in the room. It was based around a Scout from Dawlish called Richard Jon Cridge an inspirational character who was lucky enough to be selected to attend the 2007 World Scout Jamboree attended by over 38,000 other Scouts from around the world.
Shortly after selection Richard was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma and underwent chemotherapy, but after 4 sessions the family were told that the cancer could not be cured. Richard did not want this to stop him and insisted on still going to the Jamboree, he also did not want it known to the other Scouts, so as not to spoil there trip, nor did he asked to be treated any differently, he ended up having a fantastic time and helped make the whole jamboree experience a memory that will last with all those that attended for life.
Unfortunately though not long after the Jamboree. Richard started to loose his battle and after a visit in hospital from many of his Scouting friends Richard shortly passed away in September 2008.
In memory of this most remarkable Scout The "Richards Wish" charity was set up with the aim to raise much needed money for children, teenagers and young adults who are undergoing treatment for Cancer. So that they could treat such people, to allow them to do the things they enjoy, and so that they too can have the experiences they deserve, making wishes come true, just like Richard. With such a thought provoking story, it was clear that "Richards Wish" should rightly be the chosen charity of the night and duly received the takings from the door.
The most amazing thing from the night was not the money but the level of support and discussions after the event with people and Scouts alike pledging to do more to help support this amazing local charity. So if from this evening we can then influence just one other person from inspiring people like Richard then it will really show how what the power of Scouting can have on other groups and communities.
If you would like to find out more about Richard Wish please visit www.richardswish.org or visit www.devonscouts.org.uk where I am sure we will soon have news on further events to support this fantastic cause.
Picture Paul Charlton Leader from Mid Devon Explorers during his "Richards Wish" presentation holding Richards own "Scouting Hat" which holds so many memories.
