Gold Geese, a Leigh-based children’s cancer support charity, organised the Sunflowerfest at Writtle Sunflowers.
The event featured live music, face painting, horse and carriage rides, and special appearances from Spider-man and a princess.
Gold Geese, based in Elm Road, Leigh, was founded in 2018 by chief executive Katie Southgate after her child’s cancer diagnosis.
Seeing double – Spider-man and Miles Morales (Image: Jennie Spittle)
She said: “In the hard slog fighting childhood cancer we aim to offer a little light and joy to our Gold families.
“We arrange treats like Sunflowerfest as well as end of treatment parties, amazing experiences like being a firefighter for the day, theatre trip tickets, weekends away and toys to distract from uncomfortable treatments.
“About 1,900 children are diagnosed with cancer every year, and it causes a huge upheaval for everyone in the family – emotionally, physically and often financially, and Gold Geese is there every step of the way for local families affected.
“Our slogan is ‘We Fly Together’ because geese are a team and no one is left behind.
“As we receive no government funding we rely on community donations and events like this to fund our vital work.”
Gold Geese provides tailored support for families fighting childhood cancer.
Face paint – little Leila enjoying the event (Image: Jennie Spittle)
This support may include mental health therapy, toys and treats, respite trips, and help with hospital transport and food bills.
The charity also raises awareness of childhood cancer signs and symptoms, encouraging donations of blood and registration as stem cell donors.
One family attending the event shared their experience.
Leila Baryseviciute, who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2022, celebrated her fourth birthday this week.
Her mother, Jovita Baryseviciene, said: “The Gold Geese Sunflowerfest event was amazing.
“We had the best time ever and we really enjoyed every moment of it.
“Gold Geese has helped us so much. They have always been here for us. We are so grateful.”
To donate to Gold Geese or learn the signs of childhood cancer, visit goldgeese.org.