Singer Sally Barker has helped LOROS celebrate turning 30 by singing to staff and patients at the Hospice, 12 years after her husband died there.
The mother-of-two, who reached the final of BBC’s The Voice last year, performed two special 30-minute gigs at LOROS on Wednesday.
The visit was part of the Hospice’s 30 for 30 campaign, celebrating 30 years since LOROS first opened.
“If I was ever going to support any charity, it would always be LOROS, first and foremost,” said Sally, 55, who lives near Lutterworth.
Sally’s husband, Chris, 43, died at the Hospice 12 years ago, following a battle with cancer.
The couple lived on a farm and Chris was a farmer, something he did not want to have to give up because of his illness.
“He always insisted on still doing things on the farm, even when he was ill,” added Sally.
“One day, he was out feeding the chickens – that was really the only thing he could do by then – and he collapsed.
“I was out at the time, taking the boys to school and when I came back, he was being helped into the house by a postman.”
The following day, Chris was due to have a medical check-up with one of the doctors at LOROS.
“We got to LOROS for the check-up and the doctor said he wanted to admit Chris.
“Hours later and he had died. He was on the ward at the time.”
As soon as Sally heard about LOROS’ 30 for 30 campaign, she said she knew she wanted to get involved.
“I felt compelled to get involved,” she added.
“I don’t think I would’ve be able to forgive myself if I hadn’t.”
As such, Sally decided to perform a series of 30-minute pop-up gigs at various places across Leicester and Leicestershire.
“I wanted to raise money and awareness for LOROS and what better way to do that than by doing something you’re good at,” said Sally.
“I couldn’t do anything like hold a coffee morning because most of the cakes would be half eaten before I even got round to selling them.”
So far, Sally has sung at around 10 venues, which include retirement homes, pubs and at a street party.
“I’ve really enjoyed myself,” Sally added.
“I was amazed at how many venues got in touch, wanting to help out.
“I’ve sung at lots of different places, with lots of different audiences – it’s definitely been a new experience.
“I just love how spontaneous it all is.”
Sally’s 30 for 30 pop-up gigs come just before the start of her next tour, with the Leicester leg taking place at the Y Theatre, in East Street on Sunday, September 20.
Sally plans on continuing her pop-up gigs later in the year, after her tour has finished.
If you would like to get involved with the 30 for 30 campaign for LOROS visit loros.co.uk/30for30
