For ten incredible years, Helen Clark has been at the heart and soul of LATCH, bringing warmth, compassion, and unwavering support to families facing childhood cancer. As a dedicated social worker, Helen has been there every step of the way, offering a listening ear, a comforting hug, and the practical help that makes an impossible journey just a little bit easier.
Helen’s kindness is legendary. Whether families are just beginning their cancer journey, celebrating the end of treatment, or facing the unimaginable, Helen has been a constant source of strength and reassurance.
But Helen’s impact isn’t just felt by the families, her colleagues at LATCH couldn’t imagine the team without her. She’s the first to put the kettle on when someone needs a chat, she never forgets a birthday or anniversary, and she somehow always knows exactly what to say to lift a heavy heart.
Through periods of growth and change, she has been a rock, bringing her warmth and wisdom to every challenge. Over the years Helen’s passion for LATCH has extended beyond her work and she supports the wider team to ensure that LATCH can continue to support families for years to come.
Whether she’s collecting donations from schools and sports clubs or cheering on runners at the Cardiff Half Marathon, Helen is there, giving her all for a cause so close to her heart.
This week, the LATCH team came together and surprised Helen with a celebration of this incredible milestone. It was a wonderful evening, with lots of laughter, memories, and heartfelt gratitude for everything she has done over the past decade. Fellow social worker, colleague and friend, Helen Braidwood said “Helen has been an amazing support to me since I joined LATCH. She is an incredible social worker and I feel really lucky to work with her, it was lovely to spend an evening celebrating her achievement!”
The love and appreciation for Helen shines through in the heartfelt words of the families she has supported:
Bec shares, “The emotional support I got from Helen was wonderful and helped me carry the burden. She was always there in the hospital, someone I could confide in when I needed it most.”
Nia says, “She is an amazing lady. I’ve cried on her shoulder many times since my son’s diagnosis, and she always makes me feel better. A truly special person.”
Julie calls Helen “An angel sent from God” adding “She is everything you need in a support system. Always there, always caring.”
Victoria expresses her gratitude “Helen, I wouldn’t know where I’d be without you! You are truly amazing, and we love you!”
Sam says it best: “Helen makes life so much easier and is always just a phone call away. We’ll never be able to thank her enough.”
Helen’s support doesn’t stop when treatment ends. Wendy, who lost her son shares, “Helen still keeps in touch, which means the world.”
Helen, as you celebrate ten years at LATCH, know that you are truly loved and appreciated. Your kindness, dedication, and heart have made an immeasurable difference in so many lives. On behalf of everyone at LATCH, families, trustees, colleagues, and friends, thank you for everything you do.
Here’s to you, Helen! We can’t wait to see all the incredible things you’ll continue to do in the years ahead.
