The NHS has had to adapt its practices to tackle the Coronavirus pandemic in recent months. This has included prioritising resources and, in most cases, taking appointments remotely where possible. This has obviously had an impact on cancer treatments and patients.
However Prostate Cymru, the leading prostate cancer charity in Wales, are working in conjunction with Welsh health boards and professionals to continue to support men in Wales currently suffering from prostate cancer and disease as well as preparing ourselves to support men who will be seeking further help post-lockdown.
Healthcare professionals and cancer centres are expecting a spike in patients and referrals following the end of the lockdown period as people begin to feel more comfortable seeking help in person. Prostate Cymru will continue to ensure that men in Wales have access to the most up to date treatment and support during this time.
As always Prostate Cymru will be supporting research, treatments and awareness of prostate cancer and disease and we need your help. We do not receive government funding so rely on the kindness of our supporters and fundraisers. The charity sector has been hit hard by recent events and as a result we have lost a significant amount of fundraising this year due to lockdown restrictions and social distancing measures and we aren’t through this yet. Having postponed our key events, we are doing everything we can to keep our supporters safe but engaged.
Some of the things we are still doing to support men in Wales:
- Specialist nurse hotline – 08000 470 200
- Remote fundraising campaigns (keeping people active physically and mentally)
- Sharing good news stories from the public and our friendship groups
We need your help and fundraising to ensure we can continue this work and are prepared to support men in Wales following the pandemic in these uncertain times.
So how can you help?
- Spread the word – use your social media to connect with us and include your friends and family
- Donate – it is easy for you to make a donation either online or by contacting us directly
- Fundraise – there are lots of ways to raise money at home including a virtual pub quiz, shaving your head, isolation beard challenge, running or cycling challenges, hosting a Facebook birthday fundraiser or virtual talent show
Here is an example of one of our fundraisers, Liz Burden, who has challenged herself to do a huge 52,000 steps in six days. This is an example of fundraising you can do from home or work, and within the government’s guidelines. “Liz Burden, community champion from ASDA Newport, Pillgwenlly, has set herself the challenge to walk 52,000 steps in aid of Prostate Cymru. Combining her working days and her government approved daily exercise Liz is hoping to raise money for Prostate Cymru by walking 52,000 steps in the next six days. Liz is also doing this challenge with her son Sam who has said that he will match walk her over the next week.”
We would love to see some of your fundraising ideas so please use social media to keep in touch and show everyone what you are doing.
Thanks to fundraisers like Liz and, with your continued support, we can continue to support men in Wales in their fight against prostate cancer now and in the future.