Donation from Avon could see charity fund Macmillan nurse for one month

Nominated by employees at Avon Northampton through a scheme called ‘Associates Choice’ the money will make a real difference to many families and their future.

With nearly 24,000 people living with and beyond cancer in the county and 3,750 diagnosed each year, Macmillan is a charity that brings together supporters, professionals, volunteers and campaigners to ensure that those going through cancer are treated like people, not just patients.

With the number of people living with cancer expected to rise to 39,000 in Northamptonshire by 2030, Avon’s donation will be used to reach even more people in the county with vital support and could fund a Macmillan nurse for over one month.

Voting for Macmillan was driven by Avon Northampton associate Chanelle Bradshaw who championed the charity to receive the funding.

She said: “I choose Macmillan because they have helped support my family through tough times.

"My pap sadly lost his battle with cancer and they did a great job looking after him. My nan said that it helped so much having the support of a Macmillan nurse who understood what we were going through.

“I have Avon to thank for this opportunity and donating such a large amount of money. I don’t think we’d have been able to raise that much by ourselves. I am just so grateful that my grandparents knew that people cared about them, and it’s clear to see what an amazing job Macmillan do and how any people they have helped in our county.”

Ellen Finn fundraising manager at Macmillan said: “Macmillan are so grateful to Avon for this amazing £5,000 donation.

"The projected rise of those living with cancer in our county means there is more demand than ever for Macmillan’s services to support those people with the effects of their diagnosis.

“98 per cent of Macmillan’s income comes from voluntary donations and fundraising from our supporters, so without the generous donations from organisations like AVON, we truly wouldn’t be able to support people living with cancer. We would like to extend a huge thank you to Chanelle for nominating Macmillan and allowing us to provide this vital support to people who need it most, when they need it most.”