A very special celebration took place on Tuesday 12 December in recognition of the 20th anniversary of Stevenson House, our ‘Home from Home’ that so wonderfully supports families with a sick child being treated at The Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel.
Minnie Driver officially opening Stevenson House in 2003.
Opened in 2003 by Hollywood actress Minnie Driver and named after Sir Hugh Stevenson, the very first Chair of our Trustee Board, Stevenson House has provided a place of sanctuary for thousands of families over the past two decades.
To mark the occasion, families, friends, supporters, trustees and staff all came together over tea, cake and fizz to raise a glass in recognition of the ‘Home from Home’, its fantastic staff and all of the people it has supported down the years.
In addition to speeches from our CEO Jane Featherstone and Chair of Trustees Paul Jardine, the occasion was graced by Lucinda Eason, who kindly shared her story about the support their family received after her two-year-old son Oliver became critically unwell in August 2022. Lucinda, husband Ewan and their eldest son Leonardo stayed at Stevenson House for more than two months, keeping them close to Oli until he was eventually ready to return home. Lucinda said:
Lucinda Eason and Imtiaz Pathan, House Manager of Stevenson House, cut the anniversary cake.
“This house is more than a place to sleep, a place to eat, a place to cook, a place to wash – even though that would be enough. It’s way more than that. It’s a home full of love, empathy, care, support and kindness. It’s a place where you are seen and understood. It’s a place where what’s happened to you matters, and people take the time to see if you are ok. It’s a place to connect and have that moment to stumble over a few words whilst making a cup of tea with someone who is equally in their own living nightmare. It’s a place to share and speak yet be as quiet as you need. It is a sensitive, highly attuned and giving space.
“A house built on love. And that love when you are running on empty, in survival mode, means everything. It is practical, strengthening and meaningful. We are so thankful for all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to make this house happen to create a ‘Home from Home.”
After opening its doors in 2003, an extension in 2011 saw Stevenson House grow from 12 to 16 rooms, allowing for even more families to be supported. Earlier this year, world-renowned construction company ISG marked the occasion by fitting Stevenson House with a brand new kitchen. Complete with new units, induction cooker and more, the refurbishment ensures that families staying there can continue to look after themselves in the best possible way for many years to come. You can read more about that story here.
A big thank you to everyone who attended the 20th anniversary event and the many people who have worked so hard to support Stevenson House over the past two decades. Here’s to another 20 years.
CEO Jane Featherstone and Chair of Trustees Paul Jardine, with Lucinda Eason.
A special cake for a special occasion.