A thank you form Macmillan Cancer Support…
Hi, my name is Tracey and I manage Macmillan’s fundraising across Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. I joined the team in November 2013.
I first came into contact with Alex in early 2014 when I heard about your amazing fundraising in 2013, I don’t think anyone in the entire history of Macmillan has arranged a RIB circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight, and you certainly did it in style with huge support in preparation for the day as well as on the day itself. Alex then decided to build a RIB for Macmillan and hold a second circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight. Supported by a great team, a very patient wife and children, Alex has encouraged so many to raise an incredible £42,105.81.
What makes Alex’s story so special is that through his own personal experience, he did not receive support from Macmillan, yet he committed to raise funds to ensure others don’t have to face their cancer journey alone and that is truly humbling. I was so inspired by Alex’s story and his sheer determination to get things done, I invited Alex to share his personal story and fundraising achievements with our UK Regional Director and the fundraising team. Our Director got behind Alex and opened doors for us to get Alex’s fundraising promoted on our national Face Book and Twitter pages.
Alex has also been working with Steve, Fundraising Manager for Wiltshire and having met with Alex a number of times has come to appreciate the sheer magnitude of the task that Alex has embarked upon. Out of nothing, you have generated a substantial amount of money over the last few years. Both Steve and myself have also both become aware of the close personal camaraderie that exists within the RibNet community. Biffer has his own cancer experience and has been a huge support for Alex.
We took part in the Isle of Wight cruise in June this year, joining Biffer on his awesome boat. Sadly, most of us will have our own cancer story, and it was a moving experience when all the boats lined up at the Needles with the Macmillan banner. It was an unforgettable day, thank you Biffer!
Our fundraising team tried in vain to secure a spot at the 2014 Southampton Boat Show for the RIB, but of course Alex managed to pull it off. I spent a day at the show with the boat on display and felt really proud to be just a small part of this story.
Alex has always been determined to fund a Macmillan Cancer Support Nurse for a whole year and I wanted to let you know what your money has been used for.
Macmillan nurses are funded almost entirely through the generous voluntary donations of our supporters. All Macmillan nurses are registered nurses with at least five years' experience, including two or more years in cancer or palliative care. They complete specialist courses in managing pain and other symptoms, and in psychological support.
When someone hears the devastating news that they have cancer, Macmillan nurses are there to provide support right from the point of diagnosis. They take the time to listen and provide personal information as well as discuss treatment options and help with decision making. They are there to manage symptoms and side effects of cancer, as well as help with practical things such as financial and benefits advice.
They provide emotional and psychological support to patients, their carers and loved ones. They signpost people to specialist support, for example advice on nutrition if appetite is an issue, or physical rehabilitation after treatment. Most importantly, they are there to listen to patients, carers and loved ones and support them to make the right decisions to live well through their cancer journey.
Click bellow to find out more about our nurses, how you can get support, or meet some of the team.
http://www.macmillan.org.uk/HowWeCan...lanNurses.aspx
On behalf of Macmillan, thank you all for your support. You are helping us to improve the lives of people living with cancer.
Breawatch
Imogen
A great achievement Alex and a very big WELL DONE
Red Mist
Thunderbird
Top Banana
