A community fundraising lunch organised by and for breast cancer survivors has successfully raised £2,000 to support vital patient services across Liverpool. The annual event, held at The Liner Hotel, will benefit the breast units at Aintree, Royal Liverpool, and Broadgreen Hospitals through the University Hospital of Liverpool Charity.
Key Takeaways
- An annual charity lunch in Liverpool raised £2,000 for local breast cancer services.
- The event was organised by Angela MacShane and attended by past and present breast cancer patients.
- Funds will be used by the University Hospital of Liverpool Charity to purchase essential equipment for the breast units at Aintree, Royal Liverpool, and Broadgreen Hospitals.
- The gathering also served to promote breast cancer awareness and the importance of regular self-examinations.
An Annual Tradition of Support
For several years, organiser Angela MacShane has hosted a special lunch every October to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event provides a unique opportunity for past and present patients, along with their supporters and hospital staff, to connect in a positive and uplifting environment.
This year's gathering took place at The Liner Hotel in Liverpool city centre. Attendees enjoyed a two-course meal and participated in activities designed to foster community and raise funds, including raffles and a game of standing bingo.
In a gesture of generosity, the winner of the bingo game chose to donate her prize money directly back to the charity, adding to the total raised for the hospitals.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is recognised globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The month-long campaign is dedicated to increasing awareness of the disease, educating people on the importance of early detection, and raising money for research, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and finding a cure.
Building a Community of Friendship
Beyond its fundraising goals, the event is a cornerstone of a support network that has grown organically over the years. MacShane highlighted the powerful social aspect of the annual lunch, noting how it transforms strangers into a tight-knit group of friends.
"We all meet up once a year and have a lovely afternoon of lunch, raffles and bingo. It’s just a lovely get-together," Angela MacShane explained. "A lot of women walked in as strangers, but we’ve all left as friends. We’ve built up lovely relationships and have known each other for years."
This sense of shared experience and mutual support is a vital part of the recovery and ongoing journey for many patients. The lunch provides a safe and welcoming space for women to connect with others who understand their experiences firsthand, creating bonds that last long after the event concludes.
Funding Essential Hospital Equipment
The £2,000 raised will be managed by the University Hospital of Liverpool Charity and is earmarked for the breast units serving patients across the city. The funds will directly support the services at Aintree University Hospital, the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, and Broadgreen Hospital.
MacShane stressed the practical importance of these fundraising efforts, explaining that they are often crucial for acquiring state-of-the-art medical equipment that enhances patient care.
"We’re raising money for the hospital’s breast units. If we want the best equipment for our patients, we have to pay for it and that’s the reality," she stated.
Charitable donations play a significant role in supplementing NHS funding, allowing hospitals to invest in advanced diagnostic tools and treatment technologies that might otherwise be unavailable. This directly impacts patient outcomes by enabling earlier and more accurate diagnoses.
Breast Cancer in the UK
According to Cancer Research UK, breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. There are around 56,400 new breast cancer cases in the UK every year, which is more than 150 every day (2018-2020). Early detection significantly improves survival rates, making awareness and screening programmes essential.
Promoting a Vital Health Message
A key mission of the event was to spread awareness about the importance of early detection. Every attendee received a goodie bag containing a flyer with clear instructions on how and when to check their breasts for potential signs of cancer.
The information provided guidance on what changes to look for and what steps to take if any abnormalities are noticed. MacShane offered direct and practical advice to all women, urging them to be proactive about their health.
"If they just don’t look right to you, go straight to your doctor," she urged.
This focus on education empowers individuals to take control of their health. Experts advise that people become familiar with their own bodies so they can more easily identify any unusual changes. Key signs to look for include:
- A new lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast that was not there before.
- A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts.
- A discharge of fluid from either of your nipples.
- A lump or swelling in either of your armpits.
- A change in the look or feel of your skin, such as puckering or dimpling, a rash or redness.
The annual lunch serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and the direct impact that local fundraising can have on healthcare services in Liverpool.