Momentum is a local charity that supports children with cancer and life-limiting conditions, as well as aiding their families, throughout Surrey and South West London. Founded in 2004, Momentum is currently working with 200 families and that number is forever increasing. Momentum relies solely on fundraising and have many famous patrons, including Jacqueline Wilson, who help to generate revenue and publicity for the charity.
On the 25th March I was lucky enough to be able to interview Ellen Cooper, the Family Support Coordinator at Momentum.
Ellen has been working with Momentum since August 2015 and chose to work there as she admired their work and wanted to give back to the community. Her role at Momentum is crucial as she is the person who is in charge of organising special treats for the suffering families, such as a much-needed holiday or various forms of therapy.
When I ask Ellen about why she enjoys working at Momentum, she says it is because she feels that she ‘quickly makes a difference, with immediate rewards.’
Ellen tells me that the mascot of Momentum is an owl, originating from one little boy who went on a respite holiday in the New Forest with Momentum. He told Momentum how he particularly liked the owls around him, as they made him feel safe. Therefore, every child supported by Momentum now receives a small, fluffy owl on referral as a symbol of protection, wisdom and strength; qualities Momentum wants to embody.
Ellen describes Momentum’s work as ‘unique’, as each and every family receives their own individually-tailored support, accommodating to their particular desires. She also tells me how ‘Momentum never say goodbye to any of our families; we will always be there.’
Their work is truly inspiring and beneficial for the whole family and this is why Ellen believes that Momentum is an integral part of the community.
Francesca Foster, The Lady Eleanor Holles School
