20/12/2025
Christmas is a funny time of year, isn’t it.
It brings family together.
It reminds us of friendships and relationships we treasure.
And sometimes… it shines a light on loss, heartache, and the hard stuff we’re carrying.
This year I’ve felt extremely emotional. When I look back over the year, I know things could have been very different — personally and professionally. But as it stands, our team at Hope’s Therapy Dogs are counting our blessings.
We’re blessed to do the work we do. To witness change in the lives of precious children, and to know we’ve made a difference. And we’re thankful we have each other — going into 2026 knowing we’ll be there for the joy, and we’ll be there for the heartaches too.
Each of us is approaching Christmas differently. Some are expecting a wonderfully festive time. Others already know it’ll be less than perfect.
At our last staff meeting of the year, we reflected on something that felt really honest: the best way to get through Christmas is to accept it for what it is. Sometimes joy, sometimes pain… but always a lens on life — the good, the bad, and the ugly.
As we come to the end of the year (and our last few posts), we just want to say thank you.
Thank you to those who have stood by us through thick and thin.
Thank you to those who’ve shared wisdom and encouragement.
Thank you to the media for giving us a platform and a voice.
Thank you to the schools and businesses who have decided that, even with budgets as they are, children’s lives are worth fighting for — and worth investing in.
And most importantly… thank you to the children, young people and adults who have allowed us to support them. It is truly an honour.
We’re looking ahead to more growth in 2026 — because more growth means more lives changed, and more Hope… which remains steadfastly our why.
With love,
Ali, Tam, Becks, Andrea & Marion ###