Hugs from heroes
564. Jo Lomax
Jo-Anne Lomax, from Devon, is a military wife.
When she saw how affected her young children were by their dad’s absence she was driven to create ‘Huggable Heroes‘, soft dolls made in the likeness of military parents. Since their inception in 2015 Jo has hand produced 750 huggable heroes, each printed with photos of the military parent on the front and back.
Jo’s award was presented at Plymouth’s Armed Forces Weekend by Heather Ogburn MBE and the Deputy Lord Mayor of Plymouth.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“It is fantastic that Jo was inspired by her own experience as part of a military family to create a way to comfort children missing mum or dad while they serve away from home.”
Jo’s local MP, Hugo Swire MP said:
“Jo has used her own experiences of being a military family to offer support and comfort to other children dealing with the absence of a loved one whilst they are away on duty serving their country. This is particularly relevant to East Devon where so many military families live. Jo should be really proud of the positive impact Huggable Heroes has on so many families. I’m delighted that she is being recognised by the Prime Minister with this Point of Light award.”
Jo said:
‘I am so unbelievably honoured to accept The Prime Minister’s Point of Light Award. Huggable Heroes® makes me so Proud. Something so simple, making a huge impact on family life when a child is suffering from Separation Anxiety is incredible. Huggable Heroes® would not be possible without my Mum, Julia. Thank you Mum! Although we live 6 hours apart she has been there every step of the way. Roping in my Nan Sylvia and Aunt Sue they make each Hero with a huge amount of Love. We are all motivated everyday by the smiles of the children we help. I would like to dedicate this award to them.’