Welcome to the February edition of the makeabigdifference newsletter; Young Heroes’ very own one-stop-shop for all the latest charity and fundraising news.
In this months newsletter we begin with our regular article ‘Beat cancer with nutrition’ where we take a look at the health benefits of Quinoa. This protein packed seed can only be described as a nutritional powerhouse and is a personal favourite of mine in the kitchen. Read our full article to see how this tiny seed can pack an almighty punch against cancer and many other diseases.
Our related recipe of the month is ‘quinoa with stir fried vegetables’. Jam-packed with cancer fighting properties, this simple dish is tasty, satisfying and overall a great week night dinner. Give it a try and let us know your thoughts.
Easter has many traditions and it is a holiday much-loved by kids and grown-ups alike. Why not start your own fundraising tradition this spring with our fantastic Easter themed fundraising ideas?
If you’d rather burn calories than put them on (with all those delicious Easter eggs on the shelves at the moment) we share details of future marathons which may be of interest plus a hand picked selection of sporting challenges for those adventure seekers amongst us.
Until next month, enjoy!
‘On the Buses’
Young Heroes volunteer Robert Law is in the process of planning an exciting summer fundraising event which will see him literally go ‘on the buses’ as he aims to visit as many towns as possible in just one day via bus hopping.
We look forward to revealing further details nearer the time and we will be setting up a Justgiving page to help Robert reach his fundraising target so watch this space…..
Beat cancer with nutrition
Quinoa
Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is a grain native to South America, which has gained popularity in the West due to its exceptional nutritional content. Quinoa is traditionally eaten by people living in mountainous areas in Peru and Bolivia and it provides a good energy source for physical excursion.
Once cooked quinoa resembles small, almost transparent circular grains. It is delicious on its own as a side dish or missed with vegetables in much the same way as paella. The health benefits of quinoa include heart disease, cancer and diabetes prevention and digestive health.
Quinoa Nutrition
Quinoa not only has a high protein content, but also is one of the only grain that contains all the 8 essential amino acids, making it a great vegetarian protein source. It is particularly high in the amino acid lysine. It also has a very low glycemic index (GI), making it a source of slow releasing carbohydrate. It is a good source of the B vitamins thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B 6 and folic acid. It is rich in minerals iron, magnesium, manganese, iron, phosphorus copper and zinc.
Quinoa for Heart Disease Prevention
Quinoa is a good source of the cholesterol lowering B vitamin niacin and the blood pressure lowering mineral magnesium. Wholegrains, like quinoa are a good source of fibre. A meta-analysis of 7 studies showed that people with the highest dietary fibre intake had the lowest cardiovascular risk.
Quinoa for Diabetes Prevention
The mineral magnesium forms part of the glucose-regulating compound (known as glucose tolerance factor), along with chromium and vanadium, which are also found in wholegrains. Studies have shown that regular consumption of wholegrains lowers Type 2 diabetes risk. In one 8-year trial of over 40,000 subjects, risk of Type 2 diabetes was found to be 30% lower in women who frequently consumed wholegrains compared to those who ate the least of these foods. The low GI of quinoa helps to create a more sustained release of glucose into the bloodstream, which prevents sugar spikes and puts less stress on the pancreas that needs to pump out less insulin to deal with the glucose load.
Quinoa and Cancer Prevention
Wholegrain compounds in quinoa may help with cancer prevention. A study of over 35,000 participants showed that those consuming the most wholegrains had a significant reduction in breast cancer risk compared to those with low wholegrain intakes. The main reasons for wholegrains offering protection have to do with their high fibre content as well as their high nutrient and antioxidant content. In addition, wholegrains contain special compound called lignans, which are converted by good bacteria in the gut into useful substance that can help prevent cancer.
Quinoa for Digestive Health
Another of the health benefits of quinoa is its ability to aid digestive health. Wholegrains are a rich source of insoluble fibre, which increases stool bulk and decreases the transit time of waste through the intestines. Oats also contain soluble fibre, which holds water and improves stool consistency.
Sourced from: http://healthbenefits-of.org
Beat cancer with nutrition
Quinoa with Stir Fried Vegetables
Ingredients
200g quinoa
5 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 carrots, cut into thin sticks
300g leeks, sliced
300g broccoli, cut into small florets
100g sundried tomatoes, drained and chopped
200ml vegetable stock
2 tsp tomato purée
Juice of 1 lemon
Preparation and cooking times
Prep 15 mins
Cook 15 mins
Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, Super healthy, Dairy-free
Method
1. Cook the quinoa according to pack instructions. Meanwhile, heat 3 tbsp of the oil in a wok or large pan, then add the garlic and quickly fry for 1 min. Throw in the carrots, leeks and broccoli, then stir-fry for 2 mins until everything is glistening.
2. Add the sundried tomatoes, mix together the stock and tomato purée, then add to the pan. Cover, then cook for 3 mins. Drain the quinoa, then toss in the remaining oil and the lemon juice. Divide between warm plates and spoon the vegetables on top.
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
New cancer cases ‘up 30% by 2030’
New cases of cancer could rise 30% in the UK by 2030, experts have warned.
The UK ranks 16th out of 27 countries in the European Union for the predicted rise in cases, according to the data from the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) issued to publicise World Cancer Day on Saturday.
Estimates suggest in 2030 there will be 396,000 new cases of cancer in the UK compared with 304,000 new cases in 2008 – a 30% rise.
This data differs to figures released by Cancer Research UK in October, which predicted the number of new cancer cases in the UK could rise by 45% between 2007 and 2030 to 432,000 a year.
The new league table of 27 EU member states is based on World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates for new cancer cases in 2030 and leaves Ireland with the biggest predicted rise, at 72%. Cyprus comes second (55%), followed by Luxembourg (53%) and Malta (49%).
The rises could be down to a number of factors, in particular an ageing population. Higher income countries also tend to have higher levels of obesity and alcohol consumption and lower levels of exercise, which increase the risk of developing cancer.
WCRF spokeswoman Dr Rachel Thompson said: “Scientists estimate that about a third of the most common cancers in the UK and other high income countries could be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight, being more physically active and eating more healthily.
“Unfortunately, these figures are just as bad, if not worse, in non-European countries and the predicted increase in global cancer cases between 2008 and 2030 is 67% – from 12.6 million to 21.2 million. This is due to an increase in the adult population as well as an ageing population.”
A Department of Health spokesman said: “This data shows the challenges we face from an ageing population and the rising burden of cancer.
“That is why we are investing more than £750 million over the next four years to make sure people are diagnosed with cancer earlier and have better access to the latest treatments. This includes a range of public awareness campaigns on the signs and symptoms of cancer.”
Sourced from: http://www.southyorkshiretimes.co.uk/news
Text Donation Service
Don’t forget you can donate to Impact Young Heroes via our text service. For those unfamiliar with the service, here’s how works;
It really is as simple as 1, 2, 3.
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 2012/13
As part of our 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? Nightrider™ Open Challenge
A one day charity ride with a difference…it’s at night!
Nightrider™ is an exciting 100km moonlit ride past London’s iconic landmarks;
Encounter Tower Bridge, a deserted City of London, Canary Wharf, Hampstead Heath, London Zoo, Piccadilly Circus, British Museum, London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Royal Albert Hall, Battersea Power Station and more…..
When? 9th / 10th June 2012
Where? London
Closing date? Asap to avoid disappointment
For further information: http://www.classictours.co.uk/Challenges/Open-Charity-Challenges.aspx
What? Survive Death Valley 2013
Flying direct from London to Las Vegas, the challenge starts at Beatty Junction, about 100 miles from the centre of the city. Over the next 5 days, the group will cycle through California and Nevada, encountering altitudes ranging from sea level to 5500ft, and through the dramatic rocks and shimmering dunes of America’s largest national park, before cycling into the lights of Las Vegas.
When? 13th – 20th April 2013
Where? Las Vegas
Closing date? Asap to avoid disappointment
For further information:http://www.classictours.co.uk/Challenges/Open-Charity-Challenges.aspx
What? Amsterdam48 2013
A 48 hour cycle challenge to Europe’s cycling capital, Amsterdam! This 200km challenge begins with the rolling Essex countryside, a rich agricultural area filled with historic towns and villages then over to rural Holland, criss-crossing canals and rolling fields, finishing at Amsterdam. Capital to capital in just 2 days.
When? 5th – 7th July 2013
Where? Amsterdam
Closing date? Asap to avoid disappointment
For further information:http://www.classictours.co.uk/Challenges/Open-Charity-Challenges.aspx
What? Three Peaks Open Challenges
Your 3 Peaks challenge takes on the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales all within 24 hours. The trek covers 40km and involves 2,984m of ascent and descent. A truly iconic challenge.
Your 24 hour challenge begins in one of Scotland’s most scenic areas; Glen Nevis Valley. From here you will climb Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, standing at 1,344m. Your first peak affords spectacular views as you trek into the sunset, then offering an immediate challenge as you trek into the night by the light of the moon and head torches. On descending Ben Nevis you will be driven through the night towards the beautiful Lake District.
Once you arrive in the Lakes you will begin the second of your 3 Peaks – Scafell Pike; the highest mountain in England standing at 978m. As you ascend through sunrise you can enjoy fantastic scenery looking down over the hills and lakes of the region.
Your final challenge takes on the highest mountain in Wales; Snowdon, standing at 1,085m. Snowdon, or Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, is a national treasure with its unique bio-diversity of plants and wildlife and is a stunning end to the last of your 3 Peaks.
When? 17th – 19th August 2012
Where? Scotland
Closing date? Asap to avoid disappointment
For further information: http://www.utccharitychallenges.co.uk
Running Events 2012
Have you been successful in securing a place in one of the many marathons this year? If so, Young Heroes would love to hear from you and have you on board our fundraising team.
Even if you have not applied for a place yet, there may still be time and Young Heroes could assist you with the process every step of the way. Whether you’re a new or experienced runner; why not check out our guide below and see which marathon is taking place near you.
Bupa Great North Run 2012
When: Sunday 16 September 2012
Where: Newcastle-Gateshead-South Shields, United Kingdom
Distance: 13.1 Miles (Half Marathon)
Further information: http://www.greatrun.org
Virgin London Marathon 2012
When: Sunday 22 April 2012
Where: London, United Kingdom
Distance: 26.2 Miles
Further information: http://www.virginlondonmarathon.com
Bupa Great Edinburgh Run 2012
When: Sunday 7 October 2012
Where: Edinburgh, Scotland
Distance: 10k
Further information: http://www.greatrun.org
Bupa Great South Run 2012
When: Sunday 28 October 2012
Where: Southsea, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Distance: 10 Miles
Further information: http://www.greatrun.org
Adidas Silverstone Half Marathon 2012
When: Sunday 11 March 2012
Where: Silverstone, Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
Distance: 13.1 miles
Further information: http://adidashalfmarathon.co.uk
Brighton Marathon 2012
When: Sunday 15 April 2012
Where: Brighton, United Kingdom
Distance: 26.2 Miles
Further information: http://brightonmarathon.co.uk
Bupa Great Yorkshire Run 2012
When: Sunday 2 October 2012
Where: Sheffield, United Kingdom
Distance: 13.1 miles
Further information: http://www.greatrun.org
Bupa Great Manchester Run 2012
When: Sunday 20 May 2012
Where: Manchester City Centre, United Kingdom
Distance: 10 km (6.2 Miles)
Further information: http://www.greatrun.org
Bupa Great Birmingham Run 2012
When: Sunday 21 October 2012
Where: Birmingham, United Kingdom
Distance: 13.1 miles
Further information: http://www.greatrun.org
Fundraising idea of the month
Easter is a major celebration and festival in many parts of the world.
Of course that means it’s also a great opportunity for coming up with some top Easter fundraising ideas.
The Easter Bunny
A central character for many Easter celebrations. Someone dressed up in a Bunny Suit makes a perfect host for your Easter Fundraisers, particularly if you are working on fundraising ideas for kids. Don’t forget to invite your guests to have their picture taken with The Easter Bunny before they go home.
- Breakfast, lunch or tea with the Easter Bunny – Invite children to a special Easter Bunny party.
- Easter Bunny Hop – A fun bunny dance party where everyone has a pair of rabbits ears.
At both having some real live pet bunnies for the children to hold (under supervision) adds another dimension. A few hoppity party games such as musical bumps would also always be popular.
You could also combine these with any of the Easter Egg ideas below.
Easter Egg Fundraisers
Traditionally Easter eggs are part of the Easter celebrations. But there are many ways they can be incorporated into your Easter Fundraisers.
- Easter Egg Hunt – This is a well known part of many people’s Easter. Small wrapped chocolate / candy eggs are hidden around a certain area such as a garden, playground, sports field. Children then hunt for the eggs. There are lots of variations fundraisers can do around this. Charge a fee to take part or use the Easter Egg Hunt as a free event around which you can work some other fundraising ideas such as raffles, fete activities and refreshments.
- How Many Easter Eggs In The Jar? – Fill a jar with small chocolate eggs. Charge people to guess how many. Closest guess wins.
- Raffle a Big Easter Egg – A really big Easter Egg in a basket makes a great focal point for an Easter raffle.
- Easter Egg Toss – This is a great idea for sports fundraisers or older school groups. An egg is thrown between 2 people, the distance between them increasing each time a successful catch is made. The winner is the longest completed throw without the egg being broken or dropped. This could be a great focal point for a special Easter event (fancy dress would add to the fun!) or just as a simple fundraiser alongside something else.
- Decorated Easter Egg Competition – Get people to decorate an egg. This might be the most detailed and beautiful ornamentation or the funniest face and accessories (wooly wigs, felt hats etc).
If real eggs are too small to show the true artistic talent cover balloons with papier mache and have some bigger efforts.
A decorated egg competition makes a good focal point around which you can work some other fundraisers. If your eggs were impressive however you might like to display them, for instance at an Easter Fete, a town centre during Easter or outside your church after the Easter service with a collecting jar, plate or bucket in front of them. People could then vote for their favourites with their spare change; the egg that collects the most cash being the winner.
Tip – The local press love this sort of thing at Easter make sure you let them know.
Source: http://www.better-fundraising-ideas.com
Latest Cancer News –
Large study confirms benefits of exercise for some cancer patients.
Physical activity, when appropriate, can improve patients’ health and quality of life after they finish treatment, according to large analysis of over 30 studies of exercise and cancer, published in the BMJ.
Although some previous research has shown that cancer patients who try to resume daily activities after treatment sometimes find that they feel increased tiredness, do less exercise and have a reduced quality of life, other studies have shown that quality of life and other health factors can be improved for some through physical activity.
The latest report by experts at the University of Hong Kong looked at data from 34 trials that investigated the effects of physical activity (aerobic, resistance and strength training) among adults who had been treated for either breast, prostate, gynaecological, bowel, gastric or lung cancer.
The types of physical activity studied included aerobic exercise, such as walking and jogging; resistance training, such as use of elastic resistance bands; and strength training, such as using weights.
The team found that women who had undergone treatment for breast cancer and had taken done some form of exercise over several weeks showed health improvements in a range of areas.
These included body mass index (BMI) and body weight; physical functions such as lower limb strength; psychological outcomes such as fatigue and depression; and quality of life.
For the other types of cancer studied, physical activity resulted in improvements in BMI and body weight; physical functions such as oxygen consumption and hand-grip strength; depression; and quality of life.
The study also found that differences in the type and intensity of exercise also had an impact on the physical health of patients.
Breast cancer patients found that aerobic exercise plus resistance was significantly more effective on physical fitness, emotional fitness, overall well being and concerns about breast cancer, compared with aerobic activity on its own.
The effect of physical activity was also greater in younger patients, although this part of the study was not entirely conclusive as younger patients were able to carry out physical activity for longer periods of time.
The paper’s authors said that further trials are needed, especially for patients with cancer types other than breast cancer. It is also necessary to measure the intensity of activity, they said.
They concluded that “quality of life was a clear significant benefit of physical activity” and their findings showed that “clinically, there were important positive effects on physical functions and quality of life”.
Martin Ledwick, head information nurse at Cancer Research UK, welcomed the findings, but cautioned that each cancer patient is different, and that the findings would not apply to all: “This study provides us with further evidence that exercise may help to improve the quality of life of some cancer patients. But it’s important to remember that cancer can be diagnosed at any stage and there are many different types of cancer.
“Each patient’s individual condition, state of health and needs should be taken into account before prescribing exercise and many patients will need to seek advice from their doctor, physiotherapist or specialist nurse before embarking on an exercise programme.”
Sourced from: http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/news