Cancer charity shop kicks off the Rear into Gear appeal
Volunteers from the Sea View Cancer Charity shop have already handed over a massive £20,000 towards the appeal.
Hazel Dane (94), has been a volunteer at the shop for 34 years. She said: “The shop is what keeps most of us going. I started here many years ago when my husband died and I have found comfort in the shop since. They are struggling to get rid of me.”
Lauren Alexander, community champion for the Health Tree Foundation, said: “I was amazed by the generosity and spirit that these volunteers bring to the shop. It is a great honor that they will now be supporting all of our cancer appeals, especially our Rear into Gear one.”
The Rear into Gear appeal will enable surgeons to perform the latest and most complex keyhole procedures for patient’s suffering from bowel cancer and bowel related conditions. Hundreds of patients are likely to benefit each year as recovery time will be reduced, it’s less intrusive and waiting times will be shortened.
Hazel added: “It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that we are helping local people. I think that is why our shop is so well supported as our customers know it’s going locally and know that we do not have any hidden costs. We do not pay a manager either, all of the money that goes in our till goes straight to the cancer patients at the hospital.”
Mr Kishore Kumar Sasapu, consultant colorectal surgeon and clinical lead for general surgery, said: “We cannot thank the volunteers at the shop enough for their time and efforts. This is a real boost for the appeal.”
Lauren added: “Twenty thousand pounds is an incredible sum of money. All of the volunteers and customers should feel proud of themselves to know that they are helping to save people’s lives and making them more comfortable.”
If you would like to find out more or get involved in the Rear into Gear appeal please visit: http://www.healthtreefoundation.org.uk/your-achievements/200-000appeallaunchedinaidofbowelcancerpatients080517 or contact Lauren Alexander on 03033 304514 or 07841 024814
