The successful partnership between KissyPuppy – The Sophie Rolf Trust and Mountbatten Isle of Wight is being showcased at this week's national Hospice UK conference.

For 12 years the two charities have been working together, to ensure support for children dealing with death and dying, and their families.

KissyPuppy is named in memory of little Sophie Rolf, who was diagnosed with a rare and inoperable type of brain tumour when she was just four years old. Working with her family, and despite gruelling treatment to try to slow the growth of the tumour, Sophie set about raising ‘pennies to help other children.’ 

On 15 November 2013, Sophie, together with mum Gemma, dad Aaron, brother Jack and her friends, opened a new shop inside Mountbatten Isle of Wight's flagship store, in Newport's Lugley Street. 

Just days earlier, on November 8, the six-year-old had attended the official launch of new dedicated facilities for children, on the inpatient unit at Mountbatten Isle of Wight.

Above, the shop opening as reported by the Isle of Wight County Press. Below, the poster on display at this week's Hospice UK Conference.

Gemma recalls: “My proudest moment was Sophie opening the room at Mountbatten Isle of Wight and it being recognised as one of the first projects like it in the country.”

Just a few days later, Sophie died.

Her legacy lives on.

Until 27 November, the inspirational partnership work of KissyPuppy and Mountbatten Isle of Wight is being celebrated at the Hospice UK conference in Liverpool – an event for specialists working in hospice and end-of-life care.

A huge poster is on display, sharing the partnership's success with attendees from across the UK.

Twelve years after it began, the project has led to unique hospice facilities for Isle of Wight families, allowing them to spend vital time with children who are at end-of-life, or after they have died.

A hugely successful project for schools sees young children visiting the hospice, learning about its work and chatting to the people Mountbatten Isle of Wight is caring for.

A team of dedicated Isle of Wight NHS Trust nurses deliver KissyPuppy supported activities for children in their care, including an annual Christmas party.

A clipping from the Isle of Wight County Press, which covered the opening of the new children's facilities.

Gemma and Aaron said: “Twelve years ago, our KissyPuppy shop opened its doors with a simple wish from our daughter — to raise pennies that could help other children.

“What began as her heartfelt idea has grown into something truly extraordinary.

“Today, the shop stands at the heart of our charity, providing the vital support that enables us, alongside our partners at Mountbatten Isle of Wight, to develop and deliver services for the children who need them most.

”To everyone who has supported us so far — thank you. Your kindness and generosity has helped turn a little girl’s wish into a lasting legacy of care, compassion and hope.”