NICOLA FIFIELD finds out how you can make a difference by taking part in Breast Cancer Care’s Ribbon Walk at Harewood House.

TODAY, more than 120 people across the country will be told they have breast cancer.

These people will suddenly be forced to consider difficult life decisions and cope with practical, emotional and financial issues.

Breast Cancer Care is there to provide information and support to help patients make those tough decisions.

“Many breast cancer patients report that one of the biggest issues they face is the feeling of isolation,” said Tessa Capra, of Breast Cancer Care.

Often they don’t have contact with other patients and are unable to discuss their fears with family and friends. With over 46,000 people, including 323 men, diagnosed every year with breast cancer, Breast Cancer Care strives to provide the vital support needed.

“We provide information, support and practical services so that no one need feel alone when going through breast cancer.”

More than 330 people have signed up to this summer’s Ribbon Walk at Harewood House, near Leeds, but organisers hope that number will triple.

The walk is on Saturday, June 20.

Entrants can choose from either a ten or 20-mile route. Both will start and finish in the grounds of the stately home, and wind through the surrounding villages and countryside.

Each walker is invited to write a message on a pink ribbon, to be hung up at the finish alongside hundreds of others, to greet the participants at the end of their hike.

Tessa said: “The money raised will enable Breast Cancer Care to fund essential services such as the helpline, website, discussion forums, courses and one-to-one support sessions.

“All these services mean that no-one need feel alone or unsupported when going through breast cancer.

“Taking part in a Ribbon Walk is a wonderful day, full of fun and camaraderie to support people affected by breast cancer.

“Whether you choose to walk for yourself, your mum, your best friend, in thanks of a loved one who recovered, in memory of someone special who didn’t, or to simply enjoy the stunning countryside, this is a day to celebrate, be moved and inspired.”

To take part, register online at ribbonwalk.org.uk, or phone 0870 145 0101. Entry costs £30, and participants are asked to raise £250 for Breast Cancer Care.


Fundraising ideas

* Organise a mass Easter egg and spoon race

* Organise a ‘dress-down day’ at work and ask everyone to pay £1

* Have a curry night and ask people to pay £5 or £10 for the evening

* Hold an Easter egg hunt and charge a small amount per person to take part

* Do you have a skill that you can offer for free in return for a donation?

* Host a DVD evening, provide snacks and ask everyone to make a donation.