Helen & Douglas House, a children’s hospice in Oxford, has launched a special musical project to honor children who have been supported by the hospice and who have passed away. This initiative, known as The Keepsake Circle project, involves creating unique songs in memory of these children, working closely with their families to capture their personalities and cherished memories.
The project has produced ten original songs, each one a personal tribute composed by musicians Kiki Deville and Angus Powell. These songs are based on stories and experiences shared by the bereaved families, transforming their memories into heartfelt musical expressions. The album was released on April 6, 2026, and is available on popular music streaming platforms such as Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, and Amazon. All proceeds from the album support the hospice’s ongoing care services.
One family involved in the project is that of Michaela Middleton from Bicester. Michaela’s son Finley, who died at age 14 in May 2023, was a regular visitor to Helen & Douglas House for respite care throughout his life. Michaela described the hospice as a “second home” that provided vital support not only for Finley but also for the whole family. She expressed how the song created for Finley reflects his lively and cheeky personality, offering comfort during difficult times. “If I’m feeling low or I’ve had a stressful day, I can just put his song on. It recharges me,” she said.
The hospice’s bereavement support team emphasized how important it is for families to keep talking about their children and to remember them openly. Sally Hayes, Director of Nursing and Care at Helen & Douglas House, noted that many parents feel others avoid mentioning their child’s name out of fear or discomfort. She said projects like The Keepsake Circle give families new ways to celebrate their children’s lives through music.
Kiki Deville, herself a bereaved parent and one of the musicians behind the project, called it an honor to work with these families. She shared that creating these songs helps keep the memories of the children alive and provides a meaningful legacy for both families and communities.
The Keepsake Circle is part of Helen & Douglas House’s wider bereavement services that offer emotional and practical support to parents, siblings, and grandparents after losing a child. This innovative approach using music aims to bring healing through creative remembrance while raising awareness and funds to continue the hospice’s vital work.
Overall, this musical tribute stands as a moving reminder of love and loss, providing solace for grieving families while honoring the unique spirit of each child who touched the lives of those around them.
