Kylie McKee, Head of Fundraising at Velindre Cancer Centre, and Hugh Williams-Jones, an enthusiastic fundraiser and cyclist, discuss powerful fundraising efforts for cancer care. They highlight crucial initiatives that improve patient services, like specialized staff and psychological support. Encouraging emotional well-being for families affected by cancer is central, with innovative storytelling and memory boxes being introduced for children. Their heartfelt stories of community involvement and resilience through cycling paint a vivid picture of hope and support in cancer care.
The Valindra Cancer Centre raises over six and a half million pounds annually to enhance cancer care through specialized services and support.
Community fundraising efforts, such as cycling events, help forge connections among individuals affected by cancer while providing essential funding for patient support.
Deep dives
Significance of Fundraising for Valindra Cancer Centre
The Valindra Cancer Centre plays a crucial role in providing care that surpasses standard NHS offerings by funding additional services and resources. The charity raises around four million pounds annually, with remarkable growth this year leading to over six and a half million pounds. This funding goes to vital areas such as specialist nursing, research, and psychological support for patients. For instance, the charity covers over 50% of the specialized nursing staff who support patients through diagnosis and treatment, directly enhancing the quality of care and support provided.
Support for Families Dealing with Cancer
The charity acknowledges the emotional toll that a cancer diagnosis takes not just on patients, but also on their families, and has initiated programs to provide support for relatives and close friends. This includes expanding psychological support services and offering resources designed to help explain the diagnosis to children. Specifically, the charity produces specialized books that guide families on how to talk to children about cancer, addressing their emotions and concerns in an age-appropriate manner. Additionally, memory boxes are provided to help families preserve memories and maintain a connection with loved ones undergoing treatment.
Personal Stories Highlighting Community Support
Personal experiences shared by individuals involved with Valindra illustrate the profound impact of community support and fundraising on those affected by cancer. Hugh Williams-Jones, an ambassador for the charity, recounts his own journey of fundraising inspired by losing a close friend to cancer. Through various challenges, such as cycling events from major cities, he has raised significant funds while also forging connections with others affected by cancer. This camaraderie not only fosters a sense of community but also serves as a reminder of the common goal of supporting those in need throughout their cancer journeys.
Innovative Cancer Treatment Approaches
Valindra is exploring innovative ways to provide cancer treatment closer to patients to improve convenience and comfort. Plans are underway for new satellite centers that will offer treatments like radiotherapy in community hospitals, reducing the burden of travel for patients. This approach aims to allow patients to receive care without the stress of long journeys while dealing with the physical and emotional challenges of treatment. Additionally, the charity funds supportive measures, such as warming arm sleeves during chemotherapy, which significantly enhance the comfort and overall experience of patients undergoing treatment.
Episode 212: This week on Thinking Deeply about Primary Education, I’m joined by Kylie McKee and Hugh Williams-Jones representing Velindre Cancer Centre to explore why we were raising money for this great cause at the TDaPE London Conference.
Tickets for TDaPE Manchester can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-thinking-deeply-about-primary-education-conference-tickets-1132191919509?aff=erelexpmlt
If you enjoy this episode, please support us by subscribing to our YouTube channel, leaving a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or making a donation via www.ko-fi.com/tdape. Join the conversation on Discord to share your thoughts and ideas!
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