An unfinished artwork piece by a young woman who died aged just 22 was bought for charity and then handed back to the family.
The painting had been started by Francesca McCaigue, who was supported by Derian House and had hoped to see the piece displayed at the hospice's annual ball. Tragically, Fran died in July before she had the chance to complete it.
Determined that her sister's vision would live on, Chloë McCaigue finished the artwork in her memory.
At auction the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Mahfooz Hussain, made the winning £2,000 bid before presenting the artwork back to Fran's mum, Nicola, and sister, Chloë.
Nicola from Colne said: “It was a beautiful moment.
“Fran was looking forward to the Derian ball, and she had the most beautiful dress ready to wear.
“She began creating her artwork earlier this year, knowing that it would be showcased at the ball. Sadly, she never had the chance to finish it. But her sister Chloë stepped in and added her own bit of sparkle.
“After the Mayor had bid for the artwork after Fran’s story had been told at the ball, he decided to return it to us. Both me and Chloë cried. I can’t thank him enough.
“Fran grew up at Derian House. The staff there have known her since she was eight years old. It’s the place where she made lifelong friends and experienced things she might never have. She even spent her 22nd birthday, her final birthday, at the hospice.”
This year’s ball was held at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel and raised £43,226 to support children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, and their families.
Guests enjoyed an evening of entertainment from band Little Lions, close-up magician Chris Manucal, an auction and raffle, and a new initiative linked to the hospice's recently launched Derian Wishes service.
A wish jar placed on every table encouraged guests to pledge towards making a child's dream come true, with more than £6,000 pledged during the evening alone.
Deputy Chief Executive at Derian House, Caroline Taylor said: “It was fantastic to see so many people come together at the ball to support Derian House families.
“Seeing Fran’s artwork take centre stage was a particularly special moment. It was a beautiful tribute to Fran, her creativity and the bond she shared with her sister Chloë.
“We cannot thank our supporters enough for helping us raise such an incredible amount and for continuing to make special moments, memories and wishes possible for the families who need us.”
Community Fundraiser at Derian House, Ellie Smith added: “This year’s Derian House charity ball was bigger and better than ever. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and to all those who helped make the event possible.
“Care is free to families at Derian House, but it costs £6 million to run the hospice every year. We simply couldn’t provide the care and support we do without our incredible supporters, whose generosity at events like this makes such a difference.”
Derian House Children’s Hospice, based in Chorley, supports more than 400 babies, children and young people from across the North West.
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