John James & Josie visit CLIC

Josie Gibson returns home to visit CLIC Sargent 04 October 2010

Big-hearted Josie Gibson is returning to her roots in Bristol to visit the charity she generously donated £20,000 of her Big Brother winnings to and to learn more about the care and support CLIC Sargent provides for families affected by childhood cancer. Fellow housemate and boyfriend John James Parton joined her on the visit.

The 25-year-old from Westerleigh became a household name after winning the final series of the reality television show and pledged to donate 20% of her winnings to CLIC Sargent.

During Josie and John James’ visit they will spend time meeting children and young people who are currently being supported by CLIC Sargent and will take a tour of CLIC House – one of the charity’s nine Homes from Home across the UK. Homes from Home offer free, self-catering accommodation close to hospital where families can stay while their child is undergoing cancer treatment. It is one of a number of vital services the charity provides for children and young people with cancer, and their families.

Josie says,

“I’m really pleased to be back in my home town to learn more about the support CLIC Sargent gives to families affected by childhood cancer. To spend time with young people at CLIC House gives me a real insight into just how vital the charity’s support is to these families. I know my donation will help to provide a whole range of services to support children and young people with cancer, and I’m delighted to have this opportunity to see first-hand the difference it will make.”

Josie announced her £20,000 donation to her chosen charity live on Channel 4 on Tuesday 24 August. An online fundraising page was set up by Josie and John James fans shortly after her announcement and has raised more than £3,500 for CLIC Sargent.

“We are delighted that Josie and John James are able to come and visit CLIC House and hear all about the support we offer families living with childhood cancer,” says Andrew Cooper, CLIC Sargent’s Assistant Director of Services, South West and Wales.

“It costs CLIC Sargent close to £4,000 to support each child or young person through cancer treatment, which can last up to three years. Josie’s generous donation will really help families at a time when they need specialist care and support. We’re really grateful to Josie and John James for taking the time to visit CLIC House today and for supporting and raising awareness of our work.”