Andrew Gwynne, MP for Denton and Reddish has today raised a mug in support of Macmillan’s Coffee Morning and is encouraging his constituents to do the same.
Now in its 30th year, the charity fundraiser usually sees millions of pounds donated every year to help support people affected by cancer.
Every 90 seconds someone in the UK is diagnosed with cancer. The money raised helps fund Macmillan services like the 6,400 famous Macmillan Nurses or their free support line, that makes sure people with cancer can get the physical, emotional and financial support they need.
This year is more important than ever to support Macmillan’s flagship Coffee Morning, one of the UK’s longest-running fundraising events. Due to coronavirus the event is facing a staggering 71% income drop of £20 million, the cost of more than 350 Macmillan specialist cancer nurses in England for a full year. A fundraising fall of this magnitude could risk more than 80,000 cancer patients missing out on support from a Macmillan nurse next year.
This year, Macmillan encouraged people to take part however suited them, from having a socially distanced Coffee Morning safely in groups up to 6, to setting up a virtual Coffee Morning online.
Andrew Gwynne said:
“Macmillan Cancer Support does so much for those with cancer and their families and the coffee morning is always a great opportunity to raise money.
“This has never been more important, as Coronavirus has not just disrupted Macmillan’s work, but also their fundraising.
“I’d encourage all constituents who are able to to make a donation to Macmillan, to help ensure that they can continue their vital work.”
Steven McIntosh, Head of Policy, Campaigns and Influencing at Macmillan Cancer Support said:
“Between the disruption caused to diagnosis and treatment and the fear of increased risk of becoming infected with coronavirus, there has never been a more worrying time in recent history to receive a cancer diagnosis.
“At Macmillan we are determined to be there for everyone affected by cancer, but it is safe to say we are facing the hardest year in our 109-year history.
“The demand for our services and support is huge and this comes at a time when we are experiencing a dramatic and sustained drop in our income, 98% of which comes from events like our coffee morning.
“It’s no exaggeration to say Macmillan and people with cancer have never needed the public’s help more than we do right now.”
