Macmillan event in memory of Sarah’s beloved grandmother

Sarah Cook of Lyndhurst Road has raised almost £1,000 at annual fundraising events for the charity since her grandmother, Christine Florence Styles died in Sept 2013.

Christine was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in October 2010 and endured aggressive chemotherapy before eventually succumbing to her illness.

The support her grandmother was given during her illness inspired Sarah to host a Macmillan coffee morning, which raised more than £600.

She held a second event last year, which unfortunately raised only half the amount - so Sarah is doubly determined to do well this year and raise a significant sum for a charity that has helped her and her loved ones.

“It was very difficult to watch her go through such pain and suffering, but she was lucky she had her two daughters and our family to help and support her, and the help of friends too,” she said.

“Not everyone is so lucky to have such support.

“It’s wonderful to have someone like Macmillan there to keep you together so you can be strong for your family.

“Doing the event helps me cope with her loss, and by doing it I am also raising money to help a service that helps others cope with their losses too, and who helps keep people together at a time when their world seems to be falling apart.

“I have also had problems with depression since I left school - I could not even leave the house on my own - so it is terrifying, but because of what I am doing it for, it makes it easier.”

Sarah’s event takes place on Saturday September 5th at Belmont Community Centre, 11am to 4pm.

There will be a bouncy castle and a raffle, for which any donations would be gratefully received. For more information, or to donate items, please contact Sarah at [email protected]