At Howells Solicitors, our commitment to making a difference extends beyond our legal services. This year, we are proud to announce our partnership with two remarkable charities: Velindre Cancer Charity and the South East Wales branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA). Chosen by our team, these charities reflect our dedication to supporting vital causes and making a positive impact in our community.
Why the Velindre Cancer Charity is Close to Our Hearts
As part of our year-long support, we at Howells Solicitors are excited to engage in various fundraising events and campaigns. We are motivated not only by the incredible work of these charities but also by the personal stories within our team, like Terri Kirk’s inspiring battle with cancer and her treatment at Velindre.
Terri is the Secretary of our Charity Committee and is particularly pleased that the Velindre Cancer Charity was chosen. She said,
“As the Secretary of the firm’s Charity Committee, I am proud to announce that Velindre has been chosen by my colleagues to be one our charities of the year during 2023/2024.
Velindre have been amazing as I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in February 2023, and I have benefited from the charity’s work including being put forward for a target drug trial.
The level of care and support that I have received has been second to none and I will be forever grateful for it. I am delighted to now be able to support, through fundraising, the wonderful work the charity does to treat and care for cancer patients, to support families affected by cancer, and to research and test new treatments.
The Charity Committee at Howells is working on some creative and fun events to raise money for Velindre that we will announce soon, and I hope you will support us.
Velindre, we are here for you, as you have been here for me!”
Why We Chose the Motor Neurone Disease Association
Rhoslyn Baker is an Associate Solicitor in our Commercial Property department. In 2019, her husband Rob was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. Since finding out, the family have been receiving support and advice from the South East Wales branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (South East Wales branch). Commenting on the importance of the charity, Rhos said,
“The local branch of the charity is very close to my heart and I am so proud of my colleagues’ decision to support it. There is currently no cure for MND so it is vital that we continue to bang the drum and raise awareness and much needed funds for research.”
We invite our staff, clients, and community to join us in supporting these outstanding charities. Whether through donations, participating in events, or spreading awareness, every contribution makes a significant difference. Together, we can help Velindre Cancer Charity continue its fight for 'Victory Over Cancer' and support the MNDA in its mission to improve lives affected by MND.
Learn More About the Charities We're Supporting
Velindre Cancer Charity: The Hospital of Hope
Velindre Cancer Charity plays a pivotal role as the official charity of Velindre Cancer Centre, fondly known as 'The Hospital of Hope.' Through the generosity of donors and fundraisers, the charity provides essential services and support, significantly improving patient experiences and outcomes at Velindre Cancer Centre. These efforts include:
- Offering improved quality of care through complex treatment pathways.
- Providing earlier access to cutting-edge treatments and specialist equipment.
- Funding crucial support services and resources, including ground-breaking research programs into various cancers.
- Breast cancer research and care, a vital area as it remains the most common cancer in Wales, with more than 2,500 women diagnosed annually.
- Lung cancer research, addressing the most common cause of cancer death in Wales and England, with nearly 2000 new diagnoses yearly.
Notably, Velindre Cancer Charity was revitalized in 2007 and has seen a significant profile boost, thanks in part to the involvement of Welsh Rugby Legend Jonathan Davies OBE and other patrons.
Motor Neurone Disease Association: A Beacon of Support and Research
The Motor Neurone Disease Association is committed to fighting MND, a condition affecting motor neurones in the brain and spinal cord. Their efforts are focused on:
- Funding research to understand and combat MND, with 113 grants worth approximately £20.8 million in their portfolio.
- Providing care and support for people with MND, their families, and carers, distributing over £818,470 in support grants.
- Offering assistance through the MND Connect helpline, addressing over 10,000 calls in 2022.
Their comprehensive approach includes campaigns, fundraising, and volunteer opportunities, allowing everyone to contribute meaningfully to this cause.
Supporting Kevin Sinfield's 7 in 7 Challenge for MND
This weekend presents a unique opportunity to support the fight against MND through Kevin Sinfield's inspiring 7 in 7 challenge. Kevin, a British rugby league legend, will be running seven marathons in seven days. In Cardiff, his marathons begin at the Principality Stadium and conclude at Cardiff Arms Park during the Blues V Scarlets match. This remarkable endeavour is a part of his commitment to raising awareness and funds for MND research and support.
We encourage everyone to come out and cheer Kevin on his route, especially at Cardiff Arms Park. Your presence will not only boost his morale but also draw attention to this important cause. Additionally, volunteers will be conducting bucket collections at the event, offering a direct way to contribute financially to the fight against MND.
For more information about Velindre Cancer Charity, visit their website. To learn more about the Motor Neurone Disease Association (South East Wales branch) and how to help, visit their website.
