The past year’s Master’s List has been particularly poignant for Worshipful Brother Jimmy Khazoom, himself 90 years old, assuming the chair of King Solomon at Jubilee Lodge whilst dealing with his late wife’s declining health.
Jimmy, a well-respected mason and gentleman in every sense of the word, as Master of the lodge, afforded him the opportunity to choose a charity close to his heart for the lodge to support during his term, and by extension to all those brethren who revere him as one of the most respected and dedicated elders of the lodge.
With unwavering resolve, Jimmy selected Chai Cancer Care, the charity that had touched his life so profoundly during his wife Sue’s battle with cancer.
Sue was diagnosed with cancer a few years prior, and the news had been a devastating blow to their family. However, amidst the fear and uncertainty, they found solace in the compassionate care offered by Chai Cancer Care. The organisation, known for its sensitive and comprehensive support, became a beacon of hope for the Khazoom family during their darkest days.
Chai Cancer Care is a cancer support organisation, providing expert physical, emotional, and practical support to patients and their loved ones. When Sue was referred to Chai, both she and Jimmy were amazed by the level of care she received.
From counselling sessions that offered a safe space for Sue to express her fears, to the complementary therapies that eased her pain, Chai’s services were a lifeline.
The organization also provided invaluable support to Jimmy and their daughter, Sharon, helping them navigate the emotional turmoil that accompanied Sue’s illness.
Despite the best efforts of her medical team and the unwavering support from Chai, Sue eventually succumbed to the disease. The loss was immeasurable, leaving a void that Jimmy and Sharon struggled to fill. Yet, even in their grief, Chai Cancer Care continued to reach out. One year after Sue’s passing, Chai still extended a hand to Sharon & Jimmy, offering advice and support to help her through the challenging process of bereavement.
As Master of Jubilee Lodge 8822, Jimmy wanted to give back to the organisation that had given so much to his family. The lodge members felt the same and subsequently a charitable donation of £1,000 was made to Chai Cancer Care, a gesture that was both a tribute to his late wife and a way to ensure that other families could benefit from the same support that had been so crucial to them.
In presenting the donation, Jimmy spoke of Sue’s courage and the gratitude they felt for Chai’s unwavering support. “Chai was there for us when we needed them most,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “This donation is not just from me or Jubilee Lodge, but from Sue, from Sharon, and from everyone who has ever been touched by Chai’s kindness.”
The £1,000 donation was more than just a financial contribution; it was a symbol of the enduring impact that Chai Cancer Care has on the lives it touches. Through his act of charity, Worshipful Brother Jimmy Khazoom ensured that Sue’s memory would live on, helping others in their time of need, just as Chai had helped them.
