Every year, around this time, I like to reflect on the year and whether we have made a difference. The easiest thing for me to look at is the money we have helped to raise for our chosen charities. This year those causes have been Bloodwise, Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy and Truants Bike Ride India which supports ChildLine, Nordoff Robbins and Teenage Cancer Trust. We raised just over £300,000. Thanks to all that attended our various events and supported our fundraising. Thanks also to my team at VU Ltd for their hardwork collating, delivering and managing the fundraising element of these events.
Bloodwise is the blood cancer charity whose mission it is to fund research into all blood cancers, support patients and save lives. My team at VU Ltd chose this charity as it is very close to their hearts. Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy goal is to change lives through music. They offer vital support to those with life-limiting illnesses, physical disabilities or emotional challenges. ChildLine is a free 24-hour counselling service for children and young people up to their 19th irthday in the UK provided by the NSPCC. ChildLine deals with any issue which causes distress or concern, common issues dealt with include child abuse, bullying, mental illness, parental separation or divorce, pregnancy and substance misuse.
Teenage Cancer Trust – Around seven young people aged between 13 and 24 are diagnosed with cancer every day in the UK. They need expert treatment and support from the moment they hear the word ‘cancer.’ Teenage Cancer Trust
is the only charity dedicated to making this happen by giving excellent cancer care and help, meaning that young people don’t have to face cancer alone.
Fundraising remains a core part of why I started my company. I am not alone. I sit amongst millions of people in the UK who believe that through charitable causes, we can make a difference. It is this that makes us want to fundraise. We all choose a cause that is close to our hearts. We may be inspired by a family member, a friend or we may act in memory of someone special. And of course, taking part really does make us feel good.
Events already in the calendar for 2019 where there will be a charitable fundraising element include the Legends of Rugby Dinner in aid of Nordoff Robbins & honouring England rugby's Danny Care on 16th January 2019 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Rugby Legends Golf day at Stoke Park on 16th May, Cyclothon Brands Hatch on 5th September and Japan 2019 Rugby Dinner on 12th September at Smith & Wollensky Convent Garden. Do get in touch as tickets are available to attend these events.
I hope that through my work I am able to connect people. Bringing people together in one place to learn about the extraordinary work of my chosen charities is a privilege. There are reports that the UK give some £9 billion a year to charity. This really is something to celebrate. Despite all the challenges that are facing our political scene, giving remains a constant. This makes me proud.
Thank you to all of you who have donated this year.