Nurses call on people to Go the Distance for cancer research

Nurses call on people to Go the Distance for cancer research

Nurses caring for cancer and haematology patients in the North-east are encouraging people to sign up to a charity challenge to raise money for research.

Friends of ANCHOR will embark on its mileage event, Going the Distance, on March 1 – and nurses from the ANCHOR wards within ARI are keen to see people get behind the effort to raise money for cancer research.

Ann Officer [pictured on the right], works as a nurse within the Unit, where cancer and haematology care is delivered. Having taken on running challenges for Friends of ANCHOR in the past and working within the ANCHOR Unit every day, Ann sees first-hand the value in the charity’s support.

She said: “Alongside patient wellbeing and medical equipment, research is a key part of Friends of ANCHOR’s commitment to the patients, and it’s vital in driving forward cancer and haematology care. Every penny raised during Going the Distance will directly fund pioneering projects looking into the cause, diagnosis and treatment of various cancers.”

Ann will be taking part alongside her sister and brother-in-law who live in Dubai. She added: “Because it’s virtual, you can take part from absolutely anywhere. We’re looking forward to some healthy international competition as a family.”

Beverley Brown [pictured centre], is an Advanced Nurse Practitioner within the ANCHOR Unit.

She added: “Last year the advanced nurse practitioners within the department entered a team and it gave us all such a morale boost. Since we work long hours inside, we really welcomed the motivation to get out and enjoy the outdoors. It was great to know that while doing so, we were giving something back to Friends of ANCHOR for the research the charity funds.”

This time around, Beverley will even clock up miles by snowboard, with a trip to a snow resort planned.

Charity director Sarah-Jane Hogg added: “This March we need people to come on board and help us reach our target of 100,000 miles; one mile for every pound we pledge to cancer research every year.”

“We are delighted to continue our involvement in funding research locally and work towards advancements in diagnosis and treatment, thanks to the support of those who will take part.”

Going the Distance launches on Tuesday (March 1) and is open to all ages, abilities and fitness levels. Participants can walk, run, cycle, skate or even scoot – and miles covered by water will count towards the goal too; swimming, rowing or even paddleboarding. Everyone signing up will receive a mileage tracker, access to an online community, and a guide filled with local routes to keep them motivated.

Companies and schools are also being encouraged to sign up and will receive a dedicated fundraising pack and support.

Sarah-Jane added: “With many people returning to work in-person, it’s a great opportunity to keep track of steps throughout the day or take a much-needed break from the screen for a walk. We would really appreciate the support of local businesses in signing up, joining the likes of local companies Entier, James Jamieson Construction and Craig International who’ve all pledged to cover as many miles as they can. It’s a great way to top up the team spirit and get some friendly competition going between local businesses.

“As ever with Friends of ANCHOR, every penny of every pound will go to the cause, making a direct difference in the trajectory of cancer research.”

The event in March marks the fourth instalment of the charity’s mileage challenge, which has raised funds for vital patient transport and accommodation during lockdown, patient comfort packs and cancer research.  

To sign up, or to get some inspiration, tap here