Sobell House: Tie a Ribbon, Share the Love

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Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons at Oxford’s University Parks invites you to celebrate great people in full colour, including Zach Lewis’s beloved dad Mickey

Join the Rainbow of Ribbons to Brighten Lives

Once again, the hospice team invites you to join the Rainbow of Ribbons hospice fundraiser, a heartwarming event that brings colour and joy to every person they care for. This fundraiser encourages the community to create a vibrant rainbow of ribbons, symbolising hope, remembrance, and support for Sobell House Hospice.


Remembering Mickey Lewis: A Legacy of Love

One person for whom the ribbons mean a lot is Zach Lewis. His dad, Mickey, an inspiring local footballer, manager, and coach, passed away in 2021. Zach and his wife Suzanne have shared how they keep Mickey’s legacy alive through Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons.

Suzanne says: “University Parks holds so many memories for us. Mickey coached the University of Oxford Football Team, and we often met his students there. Finding Mickey’s ribbon felt magical, like everything came full circle. Each colour has meaning, and each ribbon tells a story. Therefore, the event is not just remembrance — it’s a celebration of the man and Daddy we love.”


Hospice Heroes Taking on Challenges

Nicola Duckworth is swimming the channel in August with friends Steve and Carl. They hope to finish in under 15 hours; however, they will be happy just to complete the challenge. Living in Oxfordshire means limited sea swimming, so they train in lakes and make weekend trips to the coast. You can support Nicola here: Nicola Duckworth is fundraising for Sobell House Hospice Charity.

Similarly, in April, Ele and Graham completed a 24-hour cycle challenge in their garage and raised £2.6k. Ele previously did a swim challenge last summer in memory of her brother-in-law, Justin, and returned to support more this year.


Honouring Sandra: London to Paris Bike Ride

John Hill will ride from London to Paris on 31 July with five friends. This ride is in memory of his wife Sandra, who was cared for by the hospice community team at home in 2020. John and Sandra took on this challenge with friends in 2016. Six months later, Sandra was diagnosed with cancer. Now, John and his friends ride to remember her and raise awareness.


The Ashman Family’s Fundraising Triumph

The Ashman family recently held another spinathon, raising their total to over £12k! Upcoming events include Steve’s Tenby Ironman in September and three family members running the Oxford Half Marathon. Additionally, Pete is aiming for a place in the 2026 London Marathon. Thanks to their incredible commitment, the hospice team is deeply grateful for their ongoing support.

By making a dedication, you will help Sobell create a beautiful and moving display. Please visit here. You’re welcome at the launch event on Sunday, 20th July at University Parks, Oxford. The display will remain at the Parks until the end of August.

If you wish to read more about how to help out your community, click here.

Pluma on the pitch Spanish fundraiser

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On Sunday, 20th July, award-winning Old Amersham restaurant Pluma brings a slice of Spain to The Lee Cricket Club for Scannappeal

Pluma Spanish Feast for Scannappeal – A Spanish Celebration at The Lee Cricket Club

Join us on Sunday, 20th July for an unforgettable afternoon at The Lee Cricket Club. The Pluma Spanish Feast for Scannappeal is a one-day event full of food, fun, and flamenco. You’ll experience the best of Spanish culture, all while supporting a fantastic charity.


A Refreshing Welcome

Start your experience with a glass of refreshing Sangria. As you sip, the delicious paella, prepared by Pluma’s chef, Sean Beckerberg, awaits. Choose from the traditional or vegetarian options. Don’t worry if paella isn’t your thing – an equally tempting alternative will be available.


Drinks, Dessert, and More

Enjoy a curated selection of Spanish wines, beers, and soft drinks to complement your meal. Afterward, treat yourself to dessert from The Works, offering a variety of ice creams and sorbets. They’re the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.


Flamenco Fun

As you enjoy your meal, immerse yourself in the rhythms of flamenco music. The London Flamenco Group will bring passionate, live performances to the event. If you’re feeling adventurous, join in! Learn a few steps or show off your own moves. The flamenco spirit is all about having fun and being free.


A Social Experience for All

This event is for everyone, whether you’re attending with friends, family, or flying solo. You’ll have a great time meeting new people and sharing this incredible experience. With delicious food, vibrant entertainment, and the warmth of Spanish culture, the Pluma Spanish Feast for Scannappeal is the perfect way to enjoy the season.


Supporting Scanappeal

Pluma’s co-founders, Charlie Baxter and Arantxa Fuentes, are proud to support Scanappeal. “We’ve always supported this charity, and we’re excited to help raise funds and awareness. Scanappeal is an important cause, and we hope the community joins us to make a difference,” they said.

Tickets £60pp in advance, including a welcome drink, paella, dessert & entertainment, 1-6pm on 20th July at The Lee Cricket Club, HP16 9NA. To buy yours, please visit here or call 01494 734161. Scannappeal is a registered charity dedicated to transforming healthcare in Bucks by funding state-of-the-art medical equipment for NHS hospitals including Amersham, Stoke Mandeville, Wycombe and more. Scannappeal’s mission is to bring the latest technology to local hospitals, enabling earlier diagnosis, more effective treatment, and care closer to home for patients. Over the past 38 years, Scannappeal has raised more than £20 million, directly benefiting one in four people in the local community.

To find out more about the charity, please visit here.

To keep reading about things happening in our area, click here.

Experience Rio’s Magic on the Road at Fleet Carnival

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Fleet becomes Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, 5th July when carnival comes to town bringing with it a touch of South America 

Celebrate Rio at Fleet Carnival

Get ready to take a colourful trip to Brazil this year at the 68th Fleet & District Carnival, themed around Rio de Janeiro! This annual celebration promises samba, vibrant costumes, and nonstop entertainment.


🎭 Join the Parade

The procession remains carnival’s highlight. This year, expect dazzling costumes inspired by Rio’s carnival spirit. Moreover, you can take part—or cheer on school groups, walking entries, and mobile floats as they compete for prizes!


🎶 Live Music and Performances

We’ll fill the day with fantastic music and performances:

  • First, enjoy Get Plucky—a ukulele ensemble with bass, cajon, and vocalists—perfect for singalongs.
  • Next, the Fleet Rock Orchestra delivers a grand, rock-orchestral big band sound.
  • Additionally, Congakeyz, The Funky Funks, and The Filthy Llamas bring the party atmosphere.
  • Meanwhile, in the arena, enjoy performances by Hart Gymnastics, Starburst Theatre Academy, and Frogmore Dance School.

🐾 Fun for Families (and Pets!)

Explore stalls, games, and more. Don’t miss the Carnival Dog Show—with classes for all dogs, just £2 per entry. You’re sure to leave with wagging tails and smiles all around!


🎗️ Supporting a Special Charity

Carnival’s Charity of the Year is Stepping Stones DS, which supports children and young people with Down syndrome, along with their families and carers. They offer many educational, social, and physical programs to help participants thrive.


🤝 A Community Tradition

For almost 70 years, Fleet & District Carnival, entirely volunteer-run, has united our community. As a result, the event delivers joy, laughter, and charitable fundraising year after year.


Come along for a dazzling celebration of music, costumes, and community—and create memories inspired by Rio’s magic.

More about the carnival and its history here

Experience the Best of Local Art at Farnham’s Summer Show

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Following the success of Farnham Art Society’s exhibition last year, the talented artists are back at the Medici Theatre, Weydon School from July 20th to 27th. Nick Holmes invites you along to see the Farnham’s Summer Show

Farnham Art Society Summer Show Returns to the Medici Theatre

Farnham Art Society Summer Show is back this July! Following the huge success of last year’s event, the talented members of the Farnham Art Society return to the Medici Theatre, Weydon School, from July 20th to 27th. Organised by Nick Holmes, the exhibition promises an exciting showcase of local creativity and artistic excellence.


Farnham Art Society: A Creative Powerhouse

The Farnham Art Society Summer Show reflects the strength of one of England’s largest and most active art societies. With nearly 250 members—many of them professional artists—the Society’s exhibitions regularly feature award-winning work that attracts art lovers from across the region.


Award-Winning Artists and Public Engagement

FAS members include nationally and internationally recognised artists, many of whom hold memberships in royal and prestigious art societies. Their work has been celebrated at top exhibitions, and many also teach across southern England, helping to inspire new generations of artists and art enthusiasts.


A Legacy of Art in Farnham Since the 1860s

Farnham’s artistic roots run deep. Art schools have thrived here since the 1860s. Farnham Art Society was officially established in 1944, with local artist James Hockey playing a major role in building its link with the local art college, now known as the University for the Creative Arts. This partnership allowed the Society to hold high-profile exhibitions in the university’s gallery for many years.


The Medici Theatre: A Perfect Summer Venue

After exhibiting at locations such as Parker Fine Art Auctions and Farnham House Hotel, FAS has now found an ideal home at the Medici Theatre. This marks the third consecutive summer that the Farnham Art Society Summer Show will take place here, offering both excellent facilities and an inviting atmosphere.


Supporting Charity and Honouring a Legacy

Since 1986, FAS has proudly operated as a registered charity. It works closely with the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, honouring the legacy of the late David Shepherd—renowned wildlife artist and long-time FAS President. In 2024, the Society welcomed his daughter, wildlife and military painter Mandy Shepherd, as its new patron.


Exhibition Details: July 20–27

A private view and prize ceremony will kick off the Farnham Art Society Summer Show on Saturday 19 July. The exhibition opens to the public from July 20–27, running daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission and parking are free. Guests can enjoy tea, cake, and refreshments, with proceeds donated to the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation.

All displayed artworks—paintings, ceramics, and sculptures—are for sale. There will also be a raffle featuring artworks donated by local artists, and visitors can vote for their favourite pieces. Two public-voted “Best in Show” winners (2D and 3D) will each receive £250.


Plan Your Visit to the Farnham Art Society Summer Show

Don’t miss this celebration of local talent and creative spirit. Whether you’re an art lover, a collector, or simply looking for inspiration, the Farnham Art Society Summer Show at the Medici Theatre is the perfect place to experience artistic excellence in a welcoming community setting.

For more information on FAS click here or the DSWF here or Weydon School here

Bordon Soap Box Derby: The Ultimate Race for Fun and Creativity

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Spectacular cars, family fun and live music all make up Bordon Soap Box Derby raising much-needed funds for amazing local causes 

Thrills, Spills, and Fun at the Bordon Soap Box Derby

Thrills, spills, and a few funny incidents make the Bordon Soap Box Derby lively and fun! After the huge success of 2023, this year’s event promises even more laughs, fast action, and great entertainment for everyone. Indeed, creativity, fun, and fundraising come together perfectly at this unique event.

What to Expect at the Derby

If you’ve never seen a soap box derby before, picture a colourful parade of unexpected, human-powered vehicles racing down the streets. They race while trying to stay in one piece! Meanwhile, local inventors and fans have been busy building their quirky soap boxes for the big race on Sunday, 20th July.

The rules are simple: competitors must power soap boxes by human strength alone. Each soap box must have three or four wheels and can be made from any material. Furthermore, the event encourages fancy dress and themed vehicles. Consequently, judges will award prizes for the ‘best turned-out Soap Box.’

Borden soap box derby

Event Schedule

The day starts bright and early with a lively breakfast show at The Shed from 6:30 am. This show sets the scene for an action-packed day. Then, at 9 am, Parade Square hosts the car show. The first exciting race begins at 10:30 am.

From midday, three top DJs perform live music. Two are from London, and one recently returned from Ibiza. They keep the energy high well into the evening.

The races pause for lunch at 12:30 pm and resume at 1:30 pm. Afterward, the day builds up to the awards ceremony at 3:30 pm. The fun continues with a headline band at The Shed at 7:30 pm. Finally, two DJs spin tunes for the after-party, playing late into the night.

Borden soap box derby

Supporting Local Charities

Importantly, the Bordon Soap Box Derby raises funds for four local charities:

  • Bordon Food Bank: Provides essential food supplies to families facing financial hardship (wb-ct.org/bordon-foodbank)
  • The Green Room School: Supports young people with Special Education Needs in Kingsley and other locations (thegreenroomschool.com)
  • Greatham School: Raises money for a new Astroturf sports pitch (greathamschool.co.uk)
  • Whitehill & Bordon Community Trust: Works to regenerate and develop the local area (wb-ct.org)

Get ready for a day full of fun, community spirit, and heart-pounding action at the Bordon Soap Box Derby!

Find out more here and enjoy a great fun day out! 

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide support

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Coping With Suicide Loss: Tim Owens Shares His Story of Bereavement and Support with SoBS Witney

Tim Owens, a volunteer with Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS) in Witney, shares his powerful personal story of losing his beloved sister Lucy, who tragically died by suicide at just 29 years old. Now, he helps others navigate the grief and unanswered questions that follow a suicide loss.

Losing Lucy: A Brother’s Journey Through Suicide Bereavement

“Lucy had been struggling for most of 2013,” Tim shares. “We knew something wasn’t right, but we didn’t realise the depth of her pain.”

After leaving her job, Lucy began travelling around the UK, staying in hotels, withdrawing from daily life. Despite her family’s efforts to reach her, she kept insisting: “I’m all good.” Tim gently persuaded her to come and stay with him and his wife in their new home.

“She mostly curled up in a blanket on the sofa. It felt like having a timid rabbit in the house,” he remembers. “I was so careful—one wrong move and I thought she’d run. But I was just glad she was there.”

Lucy Owens

One day, Tim convinced Lucy to take a walk along the river. She spoke about her plans and sounded hopeful. “I tried not to ask too much. I just wanted her to feel safe.”

Then came October 1st—a day that changed everything.

“I came home from work and opened the door. That’s when the bomb exploded in my life.”

The Aftermath: Grieving a Sister Lost to Suicide

The hours and days that followed were overwhelming. “I went into overdrive. I needed to know why.”

Tim and his family discovered Lucy’s notebooks—pages filled with inner pain, self-hate, and overwhelming sadness. “She’d been battling alone for months. None of us knew. Her friends didn’t know. She had a brave face, but inside, she was fighting demons.”

Today, more than a decade later, Tim continues to live with grief. “I still wake up thinking I’ll call her. I miss her terribly. She never got to meet my children. I often wonder—what if she had stayed just a little longer?”

Finding Hope: Support After Suicide Loss with SoBS UK

Now, Tim channels his grief into helping others through SoBS (Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide), the only UK charity offering peer-to-peer support for adults affected by suicide loss.

“SoBS provides a safe, confidential space for those bereaved by suicide to share, support, and heal. We understand that each person’s experience is unique, but no one needs to go through it alone.”

The charity offers local groups, a national helpline, and resources for people coping with suicide loss in the short and long term.

“We’re a self-help organisation and provide a safe, confidential environment”


💛 If you’ve been bereaved by suicide, you are not alone.

Contact the SoBS support line: 0300 111 5065
Open daily from 9am to 7pm
Learn more at: www.uksobs.com

Compassionate advice on working through grief

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Celebrant Fiona Mac advises how to work through grief ahead of the next Abingdon Compassionate Café on 20th June

Balancing the sometimes-overwhelming feeling of grief with our own personal wellbeing can be a challenge. Acknowledging and allowing for the grieving process, along with prioritising your own self-care whilst seeking support if required, can be complex.

Here are some tips I have picked up over the years of working with families living with grief, and what they have shared with me that may help. Recognising that you grieve in response to a loss.

“Grief is a natural response to loss, and it’s important to allow yourself to feel the emotions associated with it. One family member said: “Grief is a fickle thing, it hits you in a way you aren’t prepared for. “I have always been a confident person, so the shift in my mental health took me by complete surprise” ” (quote from MIND)

Acknowledge your feelings:

It can help to recognise and name the emotions you’re experiencing, whether it’s sadness, anger, guilt, or confusion. Some other words people have used to name their feelings, numb, stuck, confused, deeply sad, relief (at your loved one no longer in pain or suffering, closely followed by guilt), at a loss, feeling withdrawn.

Name them and then acknowledge them. Allow them to be what they need to be.

If it helps, take time out to acknowledge and maybe celebrate your loved one’s special days like birthdays, wedding anniversaries. Use these times to look back at photos that remind you of them and talk about them with your family and friends.

We all need a hand sometimes:

Talk to trusted friends, family members, charity helplines or a therapist about your grief and how it is affecting everyday life.

Sometimes being alongside others who are experiencing similar losses can provide comfort and support, so look out for local support groups.

“Grief is not a race.”

How you feel in yourself, your physical wellbeing:

Grief can disrupt your regular sleep patterns, so take time to think about creating a beneficial sleep routine. Come off social media a good two hours before going to bed. Maybe read, have a bubble bath, dim the lights and listen to calming music. Or try a sleep story to help fall asleep.

Grief can also affect your appetite in many ways. Of course, treats are still OK.

On the other hand, it’s really important to nourish your body with regular meals of nutritious fresh foods.

A daily dose of fresh air can improve how you’re feeling, in all weathers. If you can build in some regular daily physical activity, it can help manage any stress and improve moods.

Gardening, joining a green gym (local groups that provide gardening opportunities in small groups), and tending a local garden for a neighbour or local hospice or care home.

Think of joining in on a regular, organised local walk, jog or run. Dancing, swimming, cycling or other activities that get you moving. Perhaps take up a hobby that you used to enjoy, or look for activities that bring you joy.

Importantly, be gentle with yourself.

Grief is not a race and there is no one-size-fits-all all. Energy levels will go up and down, so pace yourself and be careful of not being driven to do things you feel you should do! Take the time pressure off everything and stick to doing “must-dos”.

Lastly, remember, you are not alone. Listed below are some organisations that can offer support, space to chat and specific bereavement support.

Useful Links:

MIND Website > Bereavement

Maggies > Friends and family

Care for the Family > Bereavement support

Sobell House > Companion support

Good Grief > For young people


Fiona Mac

About Fiona

Fiona Mac is an award-winning professional civil celebrant, based in Abingdon. She’s a Listening Samaritan for 30+ years and the founder of the Abingdon Compassionate Café. They meet regularly, offering cake, kindness and compassion in the beautiful surroundings of St Ethelwolds House in Abingdon.

Abingdon Compassionate Café

The Abingdon Compassionate Café will be held on 20th June 2025. Then running monthly on the 1st Saturday of each month. Between 10am – 12pm and then 2pm – 4pm from Saturday 6th September 2025. Visit Fiona’s website to keep updated.


See more of our articles on Health & Wellbeing here.

Limited door-portunity at Launchpad

Karen Neville

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Reading homeless charity is selling its iconic colourful stable doors

Launchpad, Reading’s leading homelessness charity, has announced the sale of its six colourful and iconic stable doors, which have been a local landmark for years.  

As the charity’s building undergoes renovations to improve its visitor facilities, the much-loved doors are available to a new home for a donation, offering supporters a large and unique opportunity to own a piece of our community’s history. 

The vibrant stable doors, which feature in the Launchpad logo, have served as a symbol of Launchpad’s long-standing commitment to be here for anyone in the community who needs support. Reflecting the charity’s open-door policy and dedication to helping those facing homelessness, the doors have welcomed countless individuals and families seeking guidance, shelter, and hope. 

“These stable doors have welcomed thousands of people over the years and hold a special place in our hearts, said Su Hamblyn, CEO at Launchpad. “While it’s sad to say goodbye, we’re excited to give our supporters a chance to own a piece of our charity’s history while helping us fund our future. These doors are more than just wood and paint – they represent our commitment to being here for anyone in need.”  

The proceeds from donations to own the doors will go directly towards Launchpad’s ongoing mission to prevent homelessness and support vulnerable individuals and families in the community. As part of its commitment to offering essential services, including housing and assistance programs, the funds will help ensure the charity can continue to provide life-changing support to those who need it most. 

Anyone interested in purchasing one of the iconic doors needs to act quickly and be able to collect. Please call Kirsti Wilson on 07593 437 309 if you are interested and she can then organise your donation and advise on when the doors can be collected.   

Please note: The doors are very big and very heavy – you’ll need a large van! 

TRAIN’s platform for the future

Karen Neville

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Didcot charity TRAIN is supporting young people to make informed decisions, develop their self-confidence and access opportunities

More young people will be given the opportunity to “unlock their potential” with youth charity TRAIN thanks to £75,000 from Ansvar Insurance’s Programme of Giving initiative. 

The financial support over the next three years, amounting to £25,000 per year, will help TRAIN continue its mission to support young people across South Oxfordshire. 

TRAIN specialises in detached youth work, stepping into the world of the young person and meeting them where they are – in parks, town centres and other public spaces – to provide immediate, non-judgemental support. The charity has been doing this for over 20 years, transforming lives and empowering young people to make positive choices and build brighter futures. 

Currently the charity reaches around 200 young people every year. However, the funding from Ansvar, a leading insurer for the charity, not-for-profit, faith and care sectors, will enable TRAIN to double its impact by expanding outreach sessions to under-served areas, increasing session frequency, and developing a tailored pathway programme to support young people on a positive life journey. 

Ben Drabble, CEO of TRAIN, said: “This incredible support from Ansvar will be transformational for TRAIN and comes at a pivotal moment. More young people than ever are navigating complex challenges, making it vital for organisations like TRAIN to provide timely, trusted support. This funding will enable us to double our reach, expand our services into areas where young people need us most, and create even more opportunities for them to engage, build resilience and unlock their potential. Ansvar’s investment in TRAIN is an investment in the future of South Oxfordshire’s young people, and we’re thrilled to partner with them to maximise the impact of this support.” 

Esther, aged 14, who has been supported by TRAIN, said: “One day I was out and not feeling very good because I had an argument with someone, and a TRAIN youth worker stopped me in the street and asked if I was ok. We chatted for a bit about it and it made me feel like someone cared. I’m happy that TRAIN has the money to help more young people.” 

Sarah Cox, Managing Director of Ansvar, added: “We are delighted to support TRAIN and help them to provide critical services and create lasting positive outcomes for hundreds of young people. This initiative is more than just a donation – it is a partnership. We understand the significant financial pressures facing charities, and we hope this funding will support TRAIN in expanding their reach and sustaining their impact. We look forward to staying closely connected and witnessing the difference they make in young lives.” 

For further information about TRAIN, visit  www.trainyouth.org.uk 

Care Worker Conquers Himalayas for Charity

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An intrepid team member from Barchester Healthcare’s new Burwood Grange care home in Walton on Thames set out on a challenging, extraordinary and life-changing trek, all in the name of checking chests!

Megan Best, a dedicated Home Services Advisor at Burwood Grange, joined Giovanna Fletcher and other well-known faces on a five-day trek through the Indian Himalayas to raise funds for CoppaFeel, a breast cancer charity focused on promoting early detection.

CoppaFeel works to combat late breast cancer diagnosis by encouraging young people to regularly check their breasts, pecs, and chests, empowering them to recognise changes and consult a doctor when something feels off.

Megan took on this challenge for a deeply personal reason: she carries the BRCA2 gene, which significantly increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. In July 2023, she underwent a bilateral mastectomy as part of her preventative care journey to lower her risk of developing breast cancer.

“This was my first time taking on a challenge like this,” Megan shared. “I was excited but nervous, especially about the unpredictable weather. I’m grateful for the incredible support from my colleagues at Burwood Grange and my fellow climbers – it motivated me to push through. I’m proud to raise funds for CoppaFeel, a charity that’s so close to my heart. Breast cancer has affected my family and friends, and I want to help prevent others from experiencing what I’ve been through.”

If you’d like to support Megan, visit her JustGiving page, “Megan Best is fundraising for CoppaFeel!” All donations are greatly appreciated.

Burwood Grange’s General Manager, Dacre Lassauniere, expressed the team’s pride: “We’re all incredibly proud of Megan and her determination to take on this incredible challenge. We can’t wait to hear about her experience and are cheering her on every step of the way.”


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