We’re sure you know how brilliant Band of Builders are by now. We’ve had a look at their latest project to help a tradesman with Motor Neurone Disease.
Fair warning: this is one that’ll tug at your heartstrings.
The Band of Builders have helped to renovate the home and garden of 45 year old electrician and builder, Jamie Thompson.
In October 2014 he was diagnosed with the disease and told he had just three years to live.
Although Jamie has exceeded his doctor’s expectations, he wasn’t able to access many areas of his home and garden – so he couldn’t go in the garden with his children: two year old Ollie, Kiya, 12 and Amber, aged 7.
Band of Builders got wind of Jamie’s situation and partnered up with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, which helps construction workers with their financial and mental wellbeing.
Together, with the help of some building supplies from us, they overhauled his garden and redid his kitchen over the course of eight days.
They added accessible paths for Jamie’s wheelchair and also put in a seating area where the family could spend time together.
It really was a heart-warming project, with the whole community getting involved, from free accommodation provided to the renovation team by neighbours to delivery of food and drink from local restaurants. Local well-wishers even popped down with cake, which is always a plus.
The moment Jamie and his family were shown the renovation was emotional – with friends, family, volunteers and neighbours attending to wish them well.
Jamie said: “What a transformation! It was a pleasure to meet every single person involved in this project. It has opened up what has become an increasingly small world as an MND sufferer. My heartfelt thanks go out to all three organisations – Band of Builders, The Lighthouse Charity and St Michael’s Hospice, who have helped make this project such a huge success. I feel we have made new friends for life. A huge thanks also to all family, friends and the community who supported the builders throughout the week.”
