For the first time, Cancer Research UK, Breast Cancer Care, Anthony Nolan and the Movember Foundation are joining forces for World Cancer Day. Their aim is to unite the Isle of Man and the UK and help transform the lives of millions of people affected by the disease.
The charities are calling on men, women and children in the region to pick up a Unity Band and wear it with pride on February 4.
The Unity Band is made of two parts, knotted together, to represent strength in unity and the power of what can be achieved when people come together.
The Unity Bands are available from each charity in their own colours at www.worldcancerday.co.uk for a suggested donation of ?2. All money raised from the Unity Bands will go towards the charities’ individual research projects and support services.
Collectively the four charities support millions of people every year through their individual work in the prevention, detection, treatment and support of those affected by cancer.
Money raised from the Unity Bands will fund breakthroughs in scientific research; save and improve the lives of people with blood cancers; provide high quality care, support and information for people with breast cancer, and fund research and support services to tackle prostate and testicular cancer.
Alison Barbuti, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the Isle of Man, said: “World Cancer Day provides an opportunity for people in our region, all across the UK and beyond, to unite and show that together we can do something about cancer.
“So many of us have been affected by the disease, which is why on February 4 we are calling on the people from the Isle of Man to join together and wear their Unity Band with pride.
“Wearing a Unity Band is a simple way to show your support and be part of the generation that transforms the lives of the millions of people affected by cancer.
“We’re partnering with Breast Cancer Care, Anthony Nolan and the Movember Foundation to promote World Cancer Day this year. By working together we can make a bigger impact.
“We’re asking the people from the Isle of Man to unite with us and be a part of something momentous.
“Whatever your motivation - to remember a loved one, celebrate people who have overcome the disease, or to rally in support of those going through treatment - World Cancer Day is a chance to get involved and help reduce the impact of cancer on future generations.”
Every year, around 40,800 people are diagnosed with cancer in the North West.*
Last year Cancer Research UK, which carries out pioneering work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer, spent around ?21million on research in the North West.
Alison continued: “Many of our success stories would not be possible without the commitment of all our amazing supporters, who fund each charity’s individual work into the prevention, detection, treatment and support of those with cancer.
“So we’re asking people of all ages across the Isle of Man to wear a Unity Band or make a small donation on World Cancer Day. A small action taken by many people really can make a huge difference.”
For more information and to find out where to get a Unity Band, visit www.worldcancerday.co.uk.
*All cancers (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) annual average 2011-2013 in the North West Region.
