We're delighted to announce that our Summer Soirée, held at Prestonfield House on Friday 5 June, was a resounding success, raising an incredible £64,000 to support patients and families across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Guests arrived in high spirits and enjoyed a memorable day full of entertainment, fundraising and heartfelt storytelling.

The event began with drinks on the lawn at Prestonfield House, generously supported by Edinburgh Gin and Prestonfield, before guests sat down to a delicious three-course lunch. Acclaimed singer, impressionist and broadcaster Jess Robinson hosted the event, delighting attendees with exclusive performances from her forthcoming Edinburgh Fringe show, Elton Reimagined.

Former Scotland rugby international and commentator Andy Nicol brought energy and enthusiasm to the live auction, helping to raise a fantastic amount for the charity. The celebrations continued into the evening as Massaoke filled the dance floor with their signature live-band karaoke experience, inspiring guests to sing along to a host of classic anthems.

However, the most moving moment of the day came when 25-year-old Holly Smith courageously shared the story of her mother, Maxine, whose experience highlighted the profound impact of hospice care. Two years ago, at the age of 54, Maxine underwent what was expected to be a routine hysterectomy. During the procedure, doctors discovered an aggressive form of sarcoma that had gone undetected. Despite treatment, her condition deteriorated, and the family was referred to St Columba’s Hospice Care.

Speaking at the event, Holly reflected on her family's initial fears about hospice care:

"At first, the word ‘hospice’ filled us with fear. We thought it meant the end, a place where people go to say their final goodbyes. But we could not have been more wrong. The hospice was not just a place of care; it was a home, filled with love, joy and dignity."

Sadly, Maxine died on 30 January last year. Holly explained that the hospice’s support did not end there:

"Now, just over a year on, the hospice is still there supporting us as a family. Through their wellbeing service, I’ve been lucky enough to receive regular massages and weekly counselling sessions, where I’ve been able to talk openly and honestly and begin to make sense of a world without my mum in it. Grief never goes away, but it changes shape. I’ve come to realise that my mum’s story isn’t just about loss. It’s about love, resilience, and the extraordinary power of care."

Holly shared that both she and her mother wanted their story to help ensure that more families could access the same comfort, dignity and compassion they received. Her powerful testimony inspired extraordinary generosity from guests, with more than £8,150 pledged in just ten minutes following her speech.

The Summer Soirée’s final fundraising total of £64,000 will help St Columba’s Hospice Care continue providing specialist palliative and bereavement support to patients and families when they need it most.

We'd like to extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated, sponsored, volunteered and supported the event. Together, you have helped ensure that more people can experience the comfort, dignity and love that hospice care provides.