Hannah Dunford
Hannah's fundraiser for Maggie's Centres
Fundraising for Maggie's Centres
Story
People who face cancer, those that survive and the loved ones of those that don’t are incredibly brave and strong individuals. My wonderful Uncle Dwt and Auntie Beth, two of the kindest people in this world, have this year been an example of this bravery and strength and I have set myself the challenge of running the Cardiff half marathon to remind myself of that strength and to raise money for Maggie’s so that anyone facing cancer, and all that comes with it, is supported when they need it, now and in the future.
I first learnt about the work of Maggie's when my wonderful friend and fellow clinical psychologist Kathy told me all about the work she and her colleagues were doing at the Swansea Centre when we were on clinical training together. I know that Kathy and the rest of the Maggie's Swansea team are a highly valued and appreciated means of support to those who visit the centre, however, this support is only possible through charitable funding. It was at an afternoon tea fundraiser for Maggie's this year that I was reminded of their work through the inspirational story of my friend Jo. Jo is a strong, brave and kind woman who has found the support of Maggie's invaluable through her own battle with cancer. Jo is one of the loveliest, kind hearted people you could meet. She is always happy to help others and has tirelessly fundraised for Maggie's since her own cancer diagnosis. I feel it's so important that we champion the work of Maggie's and incredible people like Jo so that these services continue to be provided.
Jo's words: Maggie’s is there to offer 1-1 support free for patients and their families.They offer group support and activities if they suit you.You speak to people who understand what your going through.It’s a calming place where you can visit any time of day and just have a cup of tea/coffee even before or after an app or treatment if you want. They offer various relaxation classes like yoga and mindfulness. They help you if you are eligible to claim any benefits.I find Maggie's a safe place to be able to share my fear, emotions and feelings and being understood and supported.
I'm running the Cardiff Half Marathon for Maggie's so that they can continue to fund the invaluable work they do to support amazing people like Jo, my super special Auntie Beth and Uncle Dwt, my wonderful mother and father in law and the many others impacted by cancer.
About Maggie’s:
At Maggie’s we know that when you’re diagnosed with cancer you need much more than just medical treatment. You might need information about how treatment will affect you; emotional support and practical advice; a place to go where you can meet and talk to people who are going through the same things. We’re here for anyone with cancer and their loved ones, whatever kind of cancer, and whatever stage they’re at. All our support is free, and no appointment or referral is needed. When a person receives a cancer diagnosis their whole world can fall part. People struggle to comprehend the news they have just received; their mind is flooded with questions and they feel overwhelmed with a confusing range of thoughts and feelings – this is why the demand for our specialist cancer support services is growing every year and why your support has never been more needed.We focus on the things that really make a difference, like money worries, help with stress and depression, managing side-effects and relationship and family support. Our support has been shown to improve physical and emotional wellbeing and to help people take control when cancer turns life upside down.