Macmillan says ‘thank you’ to Devon

As 2014 gets into full swing, Macmillan Cancer Support in Devon is reflecting on donations made in 2013 and how they will make a difference to people living with a cancer diagnosis locally.

People in Devon gave £948,504 to Macmillan last year, allowing the charity to provide vital new services to people affected by cancer in 2014. Macmillan’s flagship fundraising event, the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning accounted for £304,129 thanks to coffee morning hosts and supporters within the county. In addition to providing ongoing funding for all the current Macmillan services in Devon, the charity ploughed an additional £352,000 back into cancer care and support in the county throughout 2013 from new services alone – and a further £125,000 in Macmillan grants.

One of the recent developments to help local people with cancer is the new Macmillan Metastatic Breast Cancer Nurse based at Derriford Hospital, Kate Lansdell. Her role is to help people who have had primary breast cancer which has spread to other parts of the body.

Kate said:

"I am delighted to be in this new Macmillan funded role where I am the main contact for patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. I can explain the different treatments and tests and help them with advice about symptoms, side effects and pain management. I also work very closely with their families, trying to ease their worries and helping to explain the situation."

Kate added:

"It can be a devastating blow to be diagnosed again with cancer and some patients find the uncertainty really difficult to deal with and stop making plans for the future. There are also the cost implications of having cancer, such as travelling to hospital regularly and some patients may need to give up work."

Kate who has a background in cancer joined Macmillan after working for ten years with Lung Cancer Patients. She said:

"It is very rewarding to be able to make a difference to these patients’ lives at such a challenging time."

Since joining, Kate has also started Breast Cancer Clinics for new Breast Cancer Patients to bring people together to share practical and emotional support. Sian Ward-Edwards, Devon Fundraising Manager said;:

"Macmillan is only able to fund posts like these thanks to the generosity of those who fundraise and give their time to help. People sometimes think of Macmillan as just a national charity, but for our local fundraising and service teams, our only priority is raising money in Devon, and continuing work with partners locally to give people the best cancer care possible."

Sian continued:

"98% of Macmillan’s income is from public donations. With over 45,000 people currently living with or beyond cancer in Devon, and that figure set to almost double by 2030, Macmillan is going to need to keep growing each year to make sure no one has to face cancer alone. We have plenty of opportunities to get involved with the local Macmillan fundraising team. In 2014, we’re particularly keen to work with more local businesses, whose support can make a real difference in their community."

If you’re interested in holding or attending a fundraising event, getting involved with a fundraising group or committee, or would like to choose Macmillan as your charity of the year, please contact Sian Ward-Harris, Devon Fundraising Manager on 07834 192 244 or email sward-edwards@macmillan.org.uk.

Anyone who has questions about cancer can call the Macmillan Support Line free on 0808 808 00 00, Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm or by visiting macmillan.org.uk.