Testimonies (2)
Please visit Testimonies page 1 if you haven't already!
We asked VIPs, families and helpers about what they thought about HCPT Group 206:
Being the nurse for 206 is both a pleasurable & rewarding experience... I have watched our VIPs overcome considerable difficulties & still experience a fun filled week. We strive to make sure everyone is involved in all activities whatever their capability. Watching shy young people blossom & grow in confidence as the week goes on says everything about how 206 & HCPT & I am privileged to be a part of it all.
Jennifer Bebb
I love meeting with group 206 in Lourdes! They welcome any of TBG (The Brentwood Group) with open arms and whatever they have planned, we can always join in with them.
Elizabeth Armstrong
"I attended Easter Lourdes last year as part of a service group and spent a huge chunk of my week with the amazing group that is 206! The group is full of joy and fun and I enjoyed every second I spent with them. All the children have such a wonderful week and are never without a smile and all the helpers that assist them are so dedicated and selfless, I can't think of a better family group if wish to spend my time with. If anyone ever has the chance to go to Lourdes with 206 or are able to donate in any way possible please do as it gives invaluable help."
Molly Mackenzie
I've been to Easter Lourdes with Group 709 for 3 years now. As the Brentwood Service Group we work really closely with Group 206 and get to experience first hand the amazing work they do. They are always the loudest around Lourdes and just having the most fun. I was lucky enough to join them on a trip to the caves last year and had one of the best days in Lourdes ever. They are all so welcoming and friendly, and I think what they do for the young people they bring is fantastic. Long live 206!
Matthew Tisi
I’ve had the pleasure of working with 206 three times in Lourdes at Easter and all three times have been different but great fun and uplifting weeks. Its strength is its open attitude and embrace for all those who come with the group as VIPs or helpers and those who drop in and out as additional helpers from Group 709 and the St John Payne School group.
I had the great joy of working closely with 206 celebrity Isaac one year and spent most of my time looking after the big man. We had a great laugh and became good friends through our experience but most importantly, got out of some of the more mundane parts of the week!!
206 not only do a fun thing but also an important thing. As part of HCPT they demonstrate the Trust’s mission and goal that all people should share the God of love, friendship and joy.
Chris O'Callaghan
Having been associated with Group 206 for longer than I care to remember, I cannot adequately find words that describe how much of a contribution it has made to all involved in HCPT. From the very first day the idea was conceived, right the way through until today, anyone who has had the pleasure knowing 206 (and those sailing under it's banner) now has the group deeply embedded in their hearts and minds.
For anyone looking to get involved with Group 206, in whatever way, shape or form, an unforgettable experience is guaranteed. The support given goes to help so many individuals and for the VIP's, it is something that is truly life changing.
My personal best wishes for Group 206 and all those who have helped, and continue to help make it the success it is today.
Tom Thompson
Group 206 are a real credit to the HCPT. I spent a small time with them during Easter Lourdes 2014 and couldn't have enjoyed myself more. The young people were ways so happy and were like a flame full of fun always putting brightness in our day, whilst the helpers were just as great. The group constantly had us all in hysterics. I would like to thank them for welcoming us so openly and letting us join in on their week away and I look forward to the day I get to return to a week of enjoyment with them. All the best for the future.
Emily Sharp
Please email us your stories to HCPT206@gmail.com
I have travelled to Lourdes with Group 206 as a helper for a few years now and every year I love it more and more. Group 206 are such a warm and welcoming group to be with so many different talents. Going to Lourdes with the HCPT at Easter is truly amazing. Seeing all the different groups from around the world to celebrate together never fails to amaze me. Travelling to Lourdes with Group 206 only makes the experience better, they can offer a week of fun, games and laughter but can also provide excellent help and care for the VIPs. There is a great sense of family amongst the group, who all come together to offer the best experience, support and care. I highly recommend going to Easter Lourdes and going with Group 206 and I hope to be able to continue for many years to come.
Gareth Barwick
Every year when I go to Lourdes with TBG (709) I always look forward to the warm welcome that I receive from Group 206! The smiles, the laughter, the games and the many songs that we sing are always highlights of the week! I have been on many hunts for the wherebears and it is always fun to have an X Factor audition high up in the mountains. Over the years hymns have become power ballads and the judges are always moved to tears!
Another enjoyable moment is the talent show that we have each year. An array of talent is shown and I definitely believe that Simon Cowell should sign up 206 for an album release!
Finishing each evening with prayer is always special and visiting the Grotto with the VIPs is always very prayerful and moving.
I just want to end by saying:
Group 206 We Love You, Deep Down In Our Hearts!
Group 206 We Love You, Deep Down In Our Hearts!
We're Talking About, Deep Deep, Deep Down, Deep Down In Our Hearts
We're Talking About, Deep Deep, Deep Down, Deep Down In Our Hearts!
Michael Barwick
I went with Group 206 in the Easter of 2013. I was feeling very apprehensive before meeting the group, I shouldn’t have been. Right from the start the group was very welcoming and made me feel like a proper member right off the bat. From easy to speak with members too and amazing children who are a treat to be around, everything was perfect. Each day was filled with activities that were enjoyable like a walk through caves, a trip to the mountains and a midnight mass I hated having to go back to the hotel at the end of the day.
The time with Group 206 filled me with many positive memories that I could never forget. I will always remember dressing up as a fairy princess for the main Mass and fancy dress party afterwards. When it came to the last day I was so sad. I had such a great time I didn’t want to leave. If you want to have some of the best times in your life I would highly recommend being part of Group 206.
Christopher Birmingham