Cancer charity, Hope for Tomorrow, allows vulnerable cancer patients to safely continue their treatment during lockdown. But with 85% of the charity’s income from fundraising activities halted, they have launched the ‘Going the Distance’ appeal, requesting donations in order to continue offering this crucial service.
The charity runs a fleet of mobile cancer treatment units that travel to easily accessible locations, meaning patients need only go a short distance from home to receive essential treatment including chemotherapy. An
invaluable provision at the best of times, since the outbreak of COVID-19 the UK-wide service is now potentially saving lives by reducing the infection risk presented by visiting hospitals and clinics. This, as well as the peace of
mind provided by continued contact with the familiar, friendly NHS nurses on board the units, means that the facility is needed more than ever.
Maddy, a breast cancer patient who lives in the Forest of Dean said: “I’d heard about other people’s chemo being delayed and I was frightened that COVID-19 would mean I no longer received the high level of service due to staff being deployed elsewhere. Luckily nothing has changed and I’m seeing the same nurses I’ve always seen, who have become like friends over the course of my treatment.” Sarah, a nurse and trustee said: “The mobile cancer care units provide psychological comfort to patients as they
mean their treatment is close to home. They offer familiarity and continuity which is so important, as well as allowing them to get back to their home environment as quickly as possible. It is more vital than ever that we can
continue to see patients in this way.”
The charity is funded by fantastic supporters who raise money in a variety of ways including holding events and sponsored challenges throughout the year. However lockdown has had a devastating impact, causing an 85%
reduction in income. As a result, at a time when avoiding lengthy journeys to busy hospitals has never been more critical for cancer patients, the charity is under threat. As a result, Hope for Tomorrow have launched a new appeal, ‘Going the Distance’, reaching out to members of
the public to donate whatever they can. This vital funding will keep the 12 units on the road, continuing to offer people like Maddy the life-saving treatment they need safely, close to home and away from potential infection.
To help keep this life-saving service running, please give whatever you can in the following ways:
Donate on the Hope for Tomorrow Website: hopefortomorrow.org.uk/donate
Text HOPE to 70660 to give a single £5 donation
Text MCCU to 70660 to give a monthly £5 donation
Call 01666 505055
