Earlier this month, Mandy Giddins, the founder of Giddo’s Gift and mother to Jordan (Giddo), had the extraordinary honour of attending a prestigious garden party at Buckingham Palace. Both Mandy and her husband, Paul, Jordan’s dad, travelled from the small town of Flint, North Wales, to central London for lunch with key members of the British monarchy.
Invited by the royal family, Mandy joined other guests in the palace gardens to celebrate her recent accolade: the announcement earlier this year that she would receive a British Empire Medal (B.E.M.) for her “voluntary and charitable services to Young People with Cancer.”
Despite the typically British drizzle, Mandy and Paul thoroughly enjoyed the event, especially the lively brass band on the green. Among the guests (and brollies), Mandy had the memorable experience of seeing Prince William, adding a touch of royal charm to the rainy day.
Reflecting on the occasion, Mandy said: “It was an unbelievable privilege and quite surreal to be there. It was also bittersweet, as all our efforts with Giddo’s Gift are to commemorate our beloved Jord, who would have loved our trip to the big city – we even made sure we had a Nando’s as he loved to eat there.
“This honour is for Jord and for all the young people we aim to support.”
Giddo’s Gift, established in memory of Mandy’s son who gained his angel wings in 2017, has been instrumental in providing support and care to young cancer patients, making a profound impact on countless lives. This recognition by the British Empire Medal not only highlights Mandy’s dedication but also brings greater awareness to the cause she passionately advocates for.
Mandy will officially receive her B.E.M. at a local ceremony later this year, where she will be honoured alongside other local recipients of the prestigious award. This upcoming event will not only be a moment of pride for the Giddins family, but for the entire community, who have steadfastly supported the small but mighty charity since day one.
Jordan’s memory lives on as Mandy continues her invaluable work with Giddo’s Gift, which includes raising further funds for the charity through a number of engaging and fun events, as well as raising awareness of – and helping to find a less aggressive cure – for childhood cancers.
Well done, Mandy!