Cheque from birthday party (From Witney Gazette)
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Cheque from birthday party
2:44pm Monday 4th February 2008 in Witney
A WITNEY woman marked her 60th birthday by raising £720 for a care and support centre in Oxford.
Margaret Hamm decided she didn't want any presents, but appealed for money to give to the Maggie's Centre, at the Churchill Hospital.
The charity has six centres, five of them in Scotland, but another six are planned. including a purpose-built new centre near the cancer hospital, at Churchill.
They provide emotional and psychological support, as well as practical information, for cancer patients and their families.
Mrs Hamm, of New Mill Lane, Witney, said: "I had heard of the good work of the Maggie's Centre in the Churchill Hospital, and, with my 60th birthday coming up, decided to help them.
"Instead of presents, which I didn't really need, I asked everyone in my party invitations to donate some money. I was amazed at the response. Even those who couldn't come along to the party sent some donations."
The Oxford centre, operating out of a temporary building, recently held an open evening, informing people about fundraising plans for this year, including a MegaHike along the Ridgeway. The centre receives about 5,000 enquiries a year, and money raised will go towards the new building.
Following her birthday fundraising, Mrs Hamm has teamed together with three other local women to set up a new Witney area committee to support the charity.
Ellen O'Hare, Glenda Boulter, and Linda Wallis have all had support from Maggie's Centre, either through having cancer or supporting members of their family.
Maggie's Centre Oxford community fundraiser, Sandy Briscoe, said: "We are looking for more members of the community, as well as local organisations which can help raise funds for Maggie's Oxford."
Ms Briscoe, from Long Hanborough, has herself raised money for the charity through a sponsored walk of the Great Wall of China.
Anyone who can help should contact her, on 01865 225710, or e-mail at: sandy@maggiescentre.org
