£230,000 has been raised for Cancer Research UK through a sponsored 10K walk across Manchester on Friday 13th October.
Every year around 41,900 people are diagnosed with cancer in the North West. A staggering 50% of people in the UK born after 1960 will get cancer in their lifetime.
This is an issue close to home for many. With over 1,500 people taking part in Manchester’s Shine Night Walk on Friday, vital funds raised enable scientists to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.
The event started at the Castlefield Bowl with a heartfelt reminder of the devastating effect a cancer diagnosis can have on a family, and how Cancer Research UK is using the money raised from events like this.
Those in attendance heard from a scientist who spoke of the importance of immunotherapy in treating cancer. A recorded message was then played featuring cancer survivors who spoke about the hope given to them by the charity.
The 10K walk passed some of Manchester’s famous landmarks including Manchester Opera House, Manchester Cathedral and the Chinatown Arch.
The sense of camaraderie was profoundly felt and event organisers aimed to uplift those taking part. They supplied bright purple shirts, encouraged the use of face paint and glow sticks, and provided a warm-up exercise accompanied by lively music.
Everyone who completed the walk was awarded a medal for their participation and were welcomed with cheers, music and the ringing of a large brass bell when crossing the finish line. Event organisers also aim to provide an inclusive atmosphere by hiring a sign-language interpreter and staggering start times.
LIGHTING UP THE CITY: Cancer survivor Farida Anderson, MBE, and her grandson.
Cancer survivor Farida Anderson, MBE, who attended the walk with her grandson said: “My beautiful grandson Oscar was born the month before I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. I felt blessed to have him by my side throughout the walk. Every year I see him grow it reminds me how blessed I am to be in his life and it’s thanks to research that I am.”
Organisers of the event are now sending their thanks to all who attended, donated, and supported the event. They are also appealing for people to pay in their sponsorship money to make every step count.
Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for the North West Jemma Humphreys, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in the Shine Night Walk in Manchester.
“Life-saving research is being funded right now thanks to our supporters who fundraise. The atmosphere was full of emotion, courage, tears and laughter as people celebrated the lives of those dear to them who have survived cancer and remembered loved ones lost to the disease.
“Funds raised will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping save more lives.”
