Elliott Lamb is his nameThe chocolate orange challenge:
They’re not Terry’s, they’re Elliott’s.
Every Christmas, I, along with my team of friends, colleagues, and even strangers, gather hundreds and thousands of chocolate oranges to donate to medical staff who work during the Christmas holiday in memory of my son Elliott.
Elliott was afflicted with Congenital Cytomegalovirus, which meant he spent much of his short life in the hospital. During Christmas 2008, while Elliott battled pneumonia, I gave a chocolate orange to one of his physiotherapists as a token of appreciation. When word spread about this gesture, I found myself purchasing more to thank all the healthcare workers caring for him. As I shared this story with others, they too began buying chocolate oranges for me to distribute.
When Elliott passed away just before Christmas in 2010 at the age of 4, I didn’t want to celebrate anymore. I didn’t believe there was a future. Over time, however, I found new ways to cope with his loss and decided to honour his memory positively. Elliott’s resilience and impact on my life shifted my focus to helping others, practicing kindness, and being grateful each day. Approaching the first anniversary of his passing, I launched an appeal to collect as many chocolate oranges as possible for the following Christmas, aiming to thank those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.
In the inaugural year, we gathered 145 oranges, which was incredibly heartwarming. Since then, thousands around the world have joined the cause, extending beyond the UK to include participants in the USA, Australia, Germany, and Canada. This initiative has truly become a global phenomenon. To date, we have received over 150,000 chocolate oranges. It is humbling to consider the impact this tribute has had in Elliott’s memory.
Support from so many people has been instrumental, allowing the challenge to grow annually. Across the country, businesses, offices, schools and sports clubs are adorned with pyramids of chocolate oranges, as colleagues embrace the Christmas spirit and contribute in Elliott’s honour.
Christmas can be hard for many, and I believe everyone needs a bit of hope. By continuing this annual challenge, we have managed to touch hearts, support those coping with their own losses, and bring some cheer to Christmas.
Make A Difference Friday is on 13 December.
This year’s challenge happens just before Elliott’s anniversary. We’ll distribute as many chocolate oranges as possible to hospitals, hospices, and places where people impact our lives as a small yet meaningful thank you to caregivers.
You can join in too. Either start your own collection or assist with an existing one – it’s your choice.
Thanks for reading.
Best wishes.