Welcome to the November edition of the makeabigdifference newsletter; your one stop shop for all the latest charity, fundraising and cancer news.
In this months newsletter you can read about young hero Jack Peters and his incredible A levels results despite missing many of his studies due to his illness.
We also share another young heroes’ exciting news, as well as a young lady who recently enjoyed a trip to Canada with the help of Young Heroes.
In this months ‘Beat Cancer with Nutrition’ we take a look at the humble apple and why the saying ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’ may have some truth in it. Why not try our healthy apple crumble recipe; the perfect winter for these cold dark evenings.
I would like to wish our Health Co-ordinator Bev Law well wishes following problems with her leg which landed poor Bev in hospital. Wishing you a speedy recovery Bev, take care.
Until our special Christmas edition next month,
Enjoy!
Kim Doran
Editor
Get Well Soon
All the staff at Young Heroes and Impact Living would like to send well wishes to charity Health Co-ordinator Bev Law who following a nasty knock to her shin, ended up extremely poorly in hospital.
Weeks after the knock Bev’s wound became infected leading to a painful condition called Phlebitis. She was taken to hospital where she needed an operation, plenty of anti-biotics and pain killers.
Brave Bev is now at home and being looked after by her wonderful husband (and Young Heroes volunteer) Rob.
We wish her all the very best and a most speedy recovery.
We will keep you up to date with her progress.
Fundraising Idea of the Month
Christmas is a time for fun, presents and merrymaking.
But amongst the hustle and bustle it is also a time when many people try to think of the needs of others, either in their own community or further afield.
It’s also a great time for some festive Christmas Fundraising Ideas!
Santa Sprint / Run / Stroll / Cycle / Olympics / Football
The festive season provides the opportunity for the sporty (and the not so sporty) to show what they’re made of. Lots of organizations take advantage of the chance of a bit of festive fun and organize all sorts of sporting activities for people dressed up as Santas.
Santa hats and even whole outfits are surprisingly cheap and Fun Runs with everyone dressed up as Santa make great Christmas fundraisers in the run up to Christmas or just after.
Charge for entry or to buy an “official” santa hat / outfit. You can also ask participants to raise sponsorship.
You can also make money on the side by selling raffle tickets, teas and coffees, hot punch and mince pies etc
Set the distance depending on the ability of your likely participants. For the general public 5km is a good sort of distance. It also means that older kids can take part.
For the less active Santas how about a nice stroll around the local woods etc.
This idea is only limited by your imagination.
Perhaps there are local landmarks in your area that would make good places for a Santa run. ie A competitive Santa Sprint up the local big hill or around the castle grounds etc
Don’t think only of running either. Mass Santa cycles are becoming increasingly popular. You could also do Santa obstacle races, football matches, tug of wars, go kart derbys and lots lots more.
And what about the younger generation? – Who could resist sponsoring their favourite 2 year old in the local Santa Toddlers Race?
Antibiotic ‘could be used to treat leukaemia’
Scientists in Canada have discovered that an antibiotic normally used to treat skin and abdominal infections can also kill leukaemia cells.
The study, published in the journal Cancer Cell, shows that the antibiotic tigecycline specifically targets acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) stem cells by blocking their ability to produce energy within mitochondria – the ‘power station’ of cells.
The researchers put together a library of more than 500 existing drugs to see if they would work as treatments for AML. A high-speed robot investigated the impact of different drug doses on AML cells.
They found that AML cells have unique energy requirements, and it’s possible to selectively shut down this energy production by using tigecycline to block the production of proteins in the mitochondria.
Dr Aaron Schimmer said: “If you think of all the cells in the body as a power grid, we’ve discovered that tigecycline can cause a power outage in leukaemia stem cells, while still keeping the lights on in all the healthy cells.”
He added: “Technology made this discovery possible. In three days, we found which potential leukaemia drugs might be hiding in plain sight. Sifting through every combination by hand would have taken months.”
Lead author Marko Skrtic, from the University of Toronto, said: “We tested more than 500 existing drugs on leukaemia. Of the handful that made an impact, tigecycline was the most potent and revealed novel insights into the biology of leukaemia at a cellular level.”
The researchers are now beginning clinical trials with tigecycline to treat patients with AML. Dr Schimmer says that by testing already existing drugs for their ability to combat different cancers, trials on patient can proceed at a much quicker rate as many of the side effects have already been established.
Oliver Childs, senior science information officer at Cancer Research UK, said: “While survival rates for leukaemia have improved, we still need better treatments for this disease, so it’s encouraging to see innovative work like this, which is finding new ways to use old drugs.
“Although it’s too early to say whether tigecycline will be an effective treatment for AML, this work highlights an interesting approach of blocking the energy-producing parts of cancer cells. It will be exciting to see if this lab work in cells is mirrored in the clinical trials.”
Sourced from: http://info.cancerresearchuk.org
Beat cancer with nutrition
Can an apple a day keep the doctor away? Maybe
Apples also contain large amounts of phytochemicals called flavonoids that work as antioxidants to protect the cells in your body from free-radical damage. The combination of good nutrition, low calories and the abundance of antioxidants are the reasons why apples are one of the superfoods.
How Apples May Protect You From Cancer
People who eat apples every day may be at a lower risk for developing certain types of cancer, including mouth, throat and esophageal cancer. Apples are a source of several phytochemicals, including flavonoids and catechins.
The flavonoids in apples, especially quercetin, have been shown to slow the growth of cancerous cells in laboratory studies. Quercetin is found in many different foods besides apples, including red wine and red onions. It has been isolated in the laboratory, and is sometimes sold as a dietary supplement.
Can Quercetin Prevent Cancer? A Look at the Research
Laboratory studies show quercetin may have some anti-cancer activity in test tubes and lab animals, but there isn’t any research to support the idea that taking quercetin supplements will help to prevent cancer in humans.
Population studies suggest eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (including those which contain quercetin) is associated with a lower risk of some types of cancer.
Apples and Cardiovascular Disease
The flavonoids in apples may also help to prevent cardiovascular disease by lowering cholesterol and by improving the function of your blood vessels.
In one large study, post-menopausal women who had the highest levels of flavonoids in their blood were least likely to die from cardiovascular disease. Apples were among the individual flavonoid-rich foods that showed a significant correlation.
Apples may also help to prevent cancer and cardiovascular by helping you cut calories. Apples are nutrient dense without many calories, so they can help you maintain a healthy weight while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Healthy Ways to Enjoy Apples
Apples are inexpensive and easy to find. There is usually many varieties of apples ranging from bright green to deep red. Some apples are sweet and perfect for snacking, while other apples are more tart and better for cooking.
The easiest and healthiest way to enjoy an apple is to simply grab it from a fruit bowl, give it a good rinse and eat it. They’re not as delicate as most other fruits so you can easily pack an apple in your lunch.
Apples can also be used as ingredients in many healthy dishes, but avoid recipes that call for large amounts of sugar.
Low-Sugar Apple Crumble
You will need:
550g (1lb and 4 ounces) of cooking apples (such as Bramley)
2 teaspoons of low-calorie sweetener (such as Canderel)
1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
25g (1 ounce) of butter
100g (3 and a half ounces) of crushed digestive biscuits
100g (3 and a half ounces) of mixed chopped nuts
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees centigrade (gas mark 4).
- Peel, core and slice the apples and place in a saucepan with the low-calorie sweetener and lemon juice.
- Put a lid on the lid on the saucepan and cook on a low heat until the apples are softened.
- Transfer the apples to an oven-proof dish. Then, melt the butter and stir in the crushed digestive biscuits until well mixed together.
- Add the chopped mixed nuts.
- Spoon the biscuit mixture over the apples evenly.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Topps family go to Canada
On the 27th August 2011, I had the privilege of taking the Topps family to Manchester Airport for their flight to Vancouver Island, Canada, to spend a two week holiday with Julia’s sister and her family.
Julia, (mom), Jo, Rosie (Young Hero), and Harry, were clearly excited as I arrived at the house (along with their Nan who was also acting as a taxi), having never thought that their dream holiday would ever come true.
Rosie and her family were due to emigrate to Canada some years ago, but as the preparations to leave England were nearly complete, Rosie developed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Rosie has been in remission for two years, but unfortunately, following severe reactions to her chemotherapy, she has had ongoing health problems and had to undergo major surgery. Rosie has attended numerous hospital appointments for this year alone, and when she should have been celebrating her news she was in remission, it became clear that she still has many mountains to climb before she can envisage a real celebration.
Rosie accepted a Young Heroes respite break three years ago, but unfortunately she was never well enough, or there were other circumstances preventing the holiday happening. In the meantime, Rosie said that she really wished she could visit her cousins and aunty in Canada, as she and been so disappointed about the emigration plans not happening.
By coincidence, I was informed by a friend that an organisation called the Galtres Committee may be able to help, if I applied for them to fund her dream holiday. Olivia telephoned me very excited one morning at 8.15am to give me the relevant information, but said time was running out. For the last 8 years, the Galtres Committee have organised music and dance festivals in Crayke near Easingwold, to raise funds to support charities. I took the opportunity and applied to the committee and the rest is history!
The Topps family were given £2,225 by the Galtres Committee and a further £250 by the firm of Morris’s Solicitors.
It was a wonderful surprise when we were given the news and the money to enable all the family to go, and not only did it pay for the air fare, but the medical insurance and other expenses. The picture is a happy memory for the family, who saw Whales and did lots of fun activities, sightseeing and enjoying family BBQ’s, away from hospitals and being able to enjoy quality time together.
When they arrived home, although jet lagged, they had lots of stories to share and said they are so grateful to all the people who made the trip possible.
‘A very special thank you to all the Galtres Committee members, and to Morris’s Solicitors for their generous donations, giving the holiday of a life time, to a very special young lady and her family’.
Young Heroes Text Donation Service
Don’t forget you can now donate to Impact Young Heroes via a simple text message, here’s how it works;
1) Write one of the following text codes into the main body of your text
MABD01 £1 (use this code will donate £1 to Young Heroes)
MABD01 £2 (use this code will donate £2 to Young Heroes)
MABD01 £3 (use this code will donate £3 to Young Heroes)
MABD01 £4 (use this code will donate £4 to Young Heroes)
MABD01 £5 (use this code will donate £4 to Young Heroes)
MABD01 £10 (use this code to donate £10 to Young Heroes)
Our charity’s code and the amount you wish to donate.
2) Send a text to 70070
Include your charity’s code and an amount (for example CHAR17 £10)
3) You’ll receive a text with a link
to a Gift Aid form.
If you’re a UK tax payer, your charity benefits from a 25% boost to your donation
Why use TextGiving?
1) The charity gets every penny
This is a free service so no admin fees are taken
2) It’s free to take part
All text messages are free on all networks (except for the cost of the donation sent)
3) Easy and quick
Simply send a text and give up to £10 using your Impact Young Heroes unique six-digit code.
Please support us by using our text donation service.
Sports Challenge 2011/2012
As part of our winter fundraising drive we are asking supporters up and the country to take part in a range of events and activities to help us raise precious funds for young people affected by cancer.
Each month we will hand pick a selection of sporting events; so whether you are a beginner, seasoned athlete or general thrill-seeker there is an event for you.
What? South Africa Trek 2012
At the southern end of one of the world’s most exciting continents lies South Africa! Alive with wildlife, traditions and jaw-dropping landscapes we begin our journey in the vibrant capital of Cape Town! From there we head off into the bush for an unforgettable journey over mountain passes and open woodland before we return to celebrate by trekking the iconic Table Mountain. This will undoubtedly be one of the most rewarding and unforgettable experiences of your life!
When? 25th October 2012 – 3rd November 2012
Where? London to Cape Town
Closing date? Asap to avoid disappointment
For further information:
VISIT: http://www.doitforcharity.com or call 020 7424 5533
What? Team Whitewater Rafting
Raging rapids, nail-biting competition and teamwork – all this and more could be yours by taking part in one of our unique whitewater rafting adventures – and if you raise the minimum amount of sponsorship you can take part for free!
When? Year round
Where? Northampton, Nottingham, Teesside, Pertshire, North Wales.
Closing date? Asap to avoid disappointment
For further information:
VISIT: http://www.doitforcharity.com or call 020 7424 5533
What? India Cycle Ride 2012
India is simply magical… prepare to fall in love with this enchanting country steeped in culture and history. With its incredible diversity you will be guaranteed to have an experience of a lifetime while you cycle through some of the country’s most remote regions, its farmland and forests. Plus the beautiful Taj Mahal. Amazing!
When? 27th September 2012 – 6th October 2012.
Where? Delhi
Closing date? n/a
For further information:
VISIT: http://www.doitforcharity.com or call 020 7424 5533
What? UK Skydive
Tandem skydiving not only provides the experience of a lifetime, but is an exciting way to raise funds for a good cause at the same time. Plus if you raise enough sponsorship your charity jump could be for free.
When? Year round
Where? Hibaldstow
Closing date? n/a
For further information:
VISIT: http://www.skydiving.co.uk/charity.htm or call 0113 2505600.
Congratulations
We would like to congratulate Jack Peters, one of our Young Heroes who achieved 3 B’s at A Level, and has gone off to study at Northumbria University. Jack is an inspirational young man who underwent a bone transplant having been diagnosed with a cancerous tumour in his leg. Jack’s success is more incredible due to the fact he missed a lot of schooling during his illness.
Jack’s health problems continued when he developed a stress fracture in his affected leg; however, as a very determined young man, he has fought his problems and dry skis in Castleford alongside Emma his sister, who has gained many championship titles. Jack’s Consultant holds her breath when she hears what he gets up to, finding it hard to believe the determination and courage, let alone the risk taking that Jack is capable of! Although in pain and difficulty with walking, he just gets on with life.
Jack and his family had a Young Heroes respite holiday in Lanzarote in 2008, and we have continued to offer support, and follow Jack’s progress with interest and admiration ever since, being a voice at the end of the phone when needed.
NEW FACEBOOK DONATION SERVICE
We love fundraising. We also love Facebook.
Which is why Young Heroes are delighted that JustGiving have launched a brand new service combining the two.
As a charity this exciting new application will allow supporters of our charity to make one-off donations or set up a monthly direct debit scheme
As one of our fundraisers the new service will allow you to;
· Share your JustGiving page on Facebook.
· Friends can sponsor you without leaving Facebook.
· Make it easier for your friends to tell their friends about your fundraising.
· Allow you and your friends to start conversations about your fundraising by leaving comments on your page which also appear in their friends’ newsfeeds.
Start using the app now at http://apps.facebook.com/jgdonation
Thank You
Yvonne Hewitt £100
Tamworth Anker Inner Wheel Club No 6 District £150
The Rotary Club of Warwick Avon £100
All Saints Church, Newton On Ouse PCC £150
Would you like to raise money for
Impact Young Heroes whilst Christmas shopping?
easyfundraising is the simplest way to raise funds for Young Heroes. You shop online with your favourite stores and you raise money at the same time. It’s that easy.
easyfundraising work with thousands of well known retailers including Boden, M&S, Argos, Vodaphone and many more.
For example, spend £50 with Boden and you’ll raise £1.25 for Young Heroes. Insure your car with the RAC and they’ll donate up to £30 to Young Heroes. Take out a new mobile contract with Vodafone and raise up to £45.00…we could go on!
Why not kick start your fundraising campaign buy simply shopping online this Christmas?
Toys, clothes, games, hampers, you name it, you can get it through easyfundraising.
What’s more, easyfundraising work closely with their retailers to find voucher codes and discounts so you can save money on your shopping too.
And with their Find & Remind tool, they’ll even tell you when you start to shop with an easyfundraising retailer, no matter where you are on the web. Which means Young Heroes will never miss out on a donation from their retailers.
Sounds good?
Then register today by visiting http://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/register-supporter/?char=18563
When you’ve registered, you’re ready to shop and raise money! Simply click on the retailer you want, then shop as you would normally. When you make a purchase, easyfundraising will send you an email telling you how much you’ve raised and pass the donation to Young Heroes.
That’s it!
Will my shopping cost me more?
Absolutely not. You pay exactly the same price exactly as you would if you visited each retailer’s website directly.
How much can I raise?
Donations vary between retailers but an average donation is 5% of your spend. Some insurance and mobile retailers pay a substantial one-off donation of up to £50. The donation amount is shown directly next to each retailer listing and your cause will receive 100% of the donation shown. For example, if the donation shown is 2.5%, your cause will receive 2.5p for every £1 you spend.
Am I buying from the retailer or easyfundraising?
You still deal directly with each retailer. easyfundraising simply record your visit to their website and reward Young Heroes when you make a purchases.
What’s the catch? Is it for real?
There’s no catch. easyfundraising raised millions for good causes across the UK and their a member of the Institute of Fundraising.