Cornwall’s Online Book Company has created an innovative online memory book for the hospice charity, ellenor - formerly EllenorLions Hospices.

The book can be found on the charity’s new website and is a place for families to share precious memories and commemorate the lives of their loved ones. Whilst it does not openly ask for a donation there is an option that allows the reader to make one if they wish.

ellenor is a charity that provides best care and support for families facing terminal illness in Kent and is unique in looking after patients of all ages, and their families, in their place of choice. The decision to create the memory book was inspired by the moving stories supporters frequently shared with ellenor staff in thank you letters.

Sophie Batchelor, Marketing and Communications Assistant for ellenor, explained: “We have an annual ‘Lights of Love’ remembrance appeal with ceremonies in December and a Memory Tree full of dedications all year round, but nowhere for the stories and memories to be treasured. We realised that families wanted to do more than just include a name in a physical book every Christmas, they wanted to say more.”

ellenor’s fundraising team discovered The Online Book Company and were impressed with the concept of an interactive book rather than a memorial website. They felt it fulfilled a need to create a more personal celebration than a leaf or a bench could ever provide. They think the book is also a reflection of the ellenor ethos that care extends far beyond the realm of nursing and believe it will strengthen links with ellenor’s patient and family support team.

Sophie said: “Throughout the development process everyone at The Online Book Company has been fantastic. Their warmth and support has been a real pleasure. Everyone at ellenor has been especially supportive of the project, not just of the book, but of what it means to the families of those in our care.”

Julie Pentecost, Operations Director for The Online Book Company, said: “It was an inspiring experience working with staff at ellenor. We’re delighted staff are happy with the results and pleased to see the first stories appearing in the memorial book.”

The link to the book is: http://ellenor.org/memory-book Based on information supplied by Rosie Bradbury.