Anna’s Hope: 2019 in Review

We’ve had another busy and productive year here at Anna’s Hope. We’ve raised a lot of money and had great fun along the way.

In this blog, we’ve covered the best bits of our 2019.

Carole’s Aerial Adventures

Back in January, Carole, got the chance to fly an aeroplane to Paris and back, thanks to our friends at JetSim School.

Thanks to Team JetSim, who have so far raised £5,125 for Anna’s Hope, hoping to eventually reach their £7,000 target.

Rob Visits Westminster

In March, Rob was among a group of patients and relatives at Westminster to hear of the progress that has been made to advance the treatment of brain tumours, in the hopes that an eventual cure may be found.

Rob said, “We owe it to Anna and all the other patients and their families to continue to do what we can in order to press for change. We found out the hard way that brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer. It is appalling to discover that, historically, just one per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. In contrast, cancers such as breast and leukaemia have received more than six per cent enabling huge improvements in survival rates and outcomes.

“Finally, this area is beginning to get the attention it deserves. Three years ago, an e-petition led to a report by the Petitions Committee on funding, a Westminster Hall debate and a DoHSC Task and Finish Group and now we have the high-profile Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission (TJBCM) which is taking forward the recommendations of our campaigning work.

“We must do all we can to ensure no parent hears the dreaded words that their child has an incurable brain tumour and that there are no more treatment options available. I’m optimistic about the future.”

Mad Hatters Ladies Lunch

We had a fantastic turnout for our Mad Hatters Ladies Lunch, all in the name of making a difference to the lives of children with brain tumours.

The money raised helped towards funding six months of vital specialist rehabilitation for twelve vulnerable children. Thanks to all the entertainers, the Haycock Hotel and all of our hard-working volunteers for making this day possible.

Brainbow Easter Event

We had a fantastic turnout for our Mad Hatters Ladies Lunch, all in the name of making a difference to the lives of children with brain tumours.

Stamford Arts Centre

In July, the newly refurbished coffee shop opened its doors at the Stamford Arts Centre and Carole and the team were there to welcome everyone.

Thank you to all at Stamford Arts Centre for donating all the proceeds from the sales to Anna’s Hope.

Anna’s Hope 5K Fun Run

In October, the runners in the Anna’s Hope 5K Fun Run ran through horrendous conditions at the Perkins Great Eastern Run.

Despite the cancellation of the main event, we had a great day, and our fairy volunteers and ambassadors did a great job in spreading the word of Anna’s Hope and raising plenty of money for the cause.

Darren Grigas’ Amazing Adventure

Athlete, adventurer and Anna’s Hope ambassador Darren Grigas, undertook his latest challenge in November for Anna’s Hope. This time he travelled to Patagonia, across bitter glaciers, mountain terrains and icy sea winds.

So far, Darren has raised nearly £14,000 of his £15,000 goal.

Christmas Panto

This years’ Christmas panto stars Strictly Come Dancing star Katya Jones in The Wizard of Oz at the New Theatre Peterborough.

Join Dorothy and the gang on their adventure through the Emerald City. Opening on Saturday the 14^th December and running to Tuesday the 31st – make sure you get your tickets.

We’ve had an amazing 2019, and we hope for more of the same in 2020, but until then, we wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

If you’re interested in any of the fundraising we take part in, or you’d like to learn more about what we do, why not contact us today for more information?