As 2020 drew to a close, we will have all taken some time to reflect on a year that brought about so many challenges for so many people.
At DKMS, more than ever we needed to be bold and creative in finding new ways of continuing our lifesaving work in our fight against blood cancer, at a time when our help was so desperately needed. But we could not do this alone. We rely on the help and support of a great many people who tirelessly champion our cause, and help spread the word about the work we do – as well as help us financially with fundraising donations.
Last year, our record-breaking work with the comedian Al Murray continued, as we launched two major fundraising events with him, beginning with a virtual pub quiz, and concluding with an online gig starring his singer daughter, Willow. These two events, with your support, raised more than £17,500 for DKMS, which will help us pay for more than 400 new potential lifesavers to join the register. Our work with Al also captured the attention of a panel of award judges. We were delighted that Al took home the ‘Celebrity Charity Champion’ Award at the Third Sector Awards 2020, for his collaborations with DKMS.
We have also recently begun working with actress Priya Davdra, who helped support our campaign for 12-year old Arya Lloyd, and will be running for DKMS in the 2021 London Marathon.
As we begin a new year, and look forward to brighter times ahead, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everybody who supports us in the work we do, from our volunteers, stem cell couriers, and financial supporters, through to the everybody who has registered as a potential blood stem cell donor with us for one simple reason – to give a second chance of life to a person in urgent need.
From all of us at DKMS, thank you.