THE GRACE Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust celebrated 10 years since registering as a charity last month, writes Elena Pereslucha.
Since moving to a larger office in November, the charity has grown in members of staff and volunteers, helping the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust expand its reach and impact.
Over the past ten years, more than 300million people have been reached through national awareness campaigns and 389million through the ‘You Know Them Best’ campaign.
Along with this, 3.6million childhood cancer signs and symptoms cards have been distributed and more than 500 families have been supported by the specialist family support service.
The charity was established in memory of four-year-old Grace, who wished to help other children.
The promise has grown to be a nationally recognised charity, raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of childhood cancers and funding vital research.
Over its ten year period, £680,000 has been invested in pioneering childhood cancer research, £250,000 has been provided in direct financial support to families and over 67,000 educational resources have been distributed to families.
There have been 24 educational resources created to support families through childhood cancer and two children have been helped access potentially life-saving treatment unavailable on the NHS.
Dr Jan Kelly, Founder and CEO of the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust, said: “I am so grateful for the support that we have received from so many wonderful people along the way, and it is wonderful to see how many families our work is now helping.”
“Time and again, families tell us that our support has been pivotal during the most difficult moments of their lives.
“Knowing they are not alone, that someone understands and is there to provide both emotional and practical help, can make an immeasurable difference.”
She added the charity was committed to helping the whole family – not just the child – as a cancer diagnosis affected everyone, including siblings who were often overlooked.
Over the past decade, the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust has touched thousands of lives by bringing hope, support and understanding to families.
The Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust has 24 educational reasources to support families through childhood cancer and it has also provided two children with potentially life-saving treatment unavailable on the NHS.
Rwan Lugg, aged 16, was diagnosed with leukaemia just as the country went into lockdown in 2020.
“Throughout my treatment journey and beyond, the charity has helped me, and they have been amazing.
“Sarah [my support worker] visited me at home when I was struggling.
“I am proud to say I am now a young ambassador for the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust.
“The Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust looks ahead onto its next decade and remains committed to ensuring no family faces childhood cancer alone.”
Visit: gkcct.org for more on the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust.
