Young fundraiser Milly nominated for BBC award after heartfelt tribute to nan
Pilgrims Hospices is proud to celebrate the kindness and compassion of Milly Rigden, aged 15, from Whitstable, who has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Young Hero category of the BBC Make a Difference Awards 2025 – placing her in the top four of this prestigious category.
Known locally as a pageant princess, Milly was inspired to support Pilgrims after her beloved nan, Carmel, was cared for at the Canterbury hospice. Determined to give back, she created a thoughtful Amazon Wish List filled with comfort items and everyday essentials to help other patients feel at ease during their time in care.
“I wanted to do something to help people like my nan – even small things can make a big difference,” said Milly.
Milly and her sister Lydia, then aged just 8 and 13, initially set themselves a target to raise £1,000 in a year as a way of giving back for the care their nan had received. Their hard work and determination paid off – they smashed their target and raised an incredible £2,626.46.
Since then, their fundraising mission has grown. The sisters now regularly collect and supply comfort items to the hospice. Many of the items are donated by the pageant community, and others are bought by Milly and Lydia using money raised from small fundraisers and boot fairs.
They put their heart into the items they provide – from soft blankets, toiletries, and puzzle books to cosy socks and practical items like phone chargers and electrical leads.
“It might seem like a small thing,” Milly explained, “but having the ability to charge a phone can mean everything to patients and their families. It helps people stay connected during a really difficult time.”
One of their most cherished projects is the ‘Hug from Home’ box, which they keep regularly stocked with thoughtful items for patients and families.
“Anyone can come along and select an item that might help them feel a little closer to home,” Milly said.
“Nan always had chilly feet, and we used to bring her cosy socks to keep her warm. We keep the ‘Hug from Home’ box topped up with socks for anyone with chilly toes to enjoy.”
Milly is now an internationally crowned pageant queen, and Lydia has also proudly achieved national pageant recognition. Both sisters use their platforms to support hospice care and encourage others to get involved.
“Mum and I still talk about our nan all the time,” Milly added. “This helps me think of her in a really positive way. She would be so proud of what we do.”
Milly’s dedication and compassion led to her being nominated for the BBC award by family, friends, and members of the pageant community. She found out about the nomination in a moment she’ll never forget.
“We were literally leaving for the United States – part of my pageant duties – when I found out. Mum, Lydia, and I were rushing to catch our flight, and suddenly we heard the news. It was such a shock, and a lot to take in at that moment, but also incredibly exciting. What a privilege to be recognised for my efforts.”
The Rigden family are well known as regular volunteers at Pilgrims events. Milly and Lydia have taken part in some of Pilgrims’ most loved fundraising activities, including the Thanet 5k Colour Run and Santas on the Run! festive fun run.
“We’d like to say a huge thank you to the Rigden family for all the support they bring to Pilgrims Hospices,” added Kate White, Senior Nurse Manager.
Milly also continues to use her pageant platform to raise awareness of hospice care – not only in the UK, but on an international stage.
“When I travel as part of the pageant, I get to spread the message about hospice care and how important it is,” said Milly.
“It’s an honour to shine a light on what Pilgrims does for so many people.”
Her nomination is a powerful reminder of the impact young people can make when they’re motivated by love, compassion, and community spirit.
“Milly’s kindness has really shone through,” said Rachel Edmed, Senior Fundraiser at Pilgrims Hospices. “She’s shown that anyone, at any age, can make a big difference to those facing the most difficult times. We’re so proud of her.”
Milly was recently interviewed by BBC journalist Carole Wordsworth at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury, where she shared her story and celebrated the incredible contributions of young people in our communities.
The BBC Make a Difference Awards will take place later in 2025, recognising unsung heroes across the UK who go the extra mile to help others. Whatever the outcome, Milly has already made a lasting difference – one heartfelt gesture at a time.
