Weekly Lunchtime Meeting

Macmillan Cancer Support

Jamie Davenport, the fund raising manager for Macmillan cancer support in Lincolnshire came to talk to us today about the work done by the Macmillan Cancer Support organisation.  He was accompanied by Catherine Booth who had been appointed recently to manage fund raising in the region.

Presentation of Cheque

President Chris presented Jamie with a cheque for GBP600 representing money raised by the Rotary Club Christmas supermarket collections. 

Douglas Macmillan

The Macmillan Organisation was founded over 100 years ago by Douglas Macmillan who received a legacy of GBP10 (equivalent to around GBP1000 in today's money) from his father who died of cancer.  He chose to use this money to provide information, advice and practical help for cancer sufferers. For example, he would deliver bags of coal to the homes of cancer sufferers to make sure that they were kept comfortable.

Today's Macmillan Organisation

The work done by Douglas continues in a similar vein by community and hospital based team of professionals comprising nurses and specialist support such as dieticians and social workers with the aim of reducing stress in the lives of those living with cancer.  The level of support can vary from a reassuring chat over a cup of coffee to a full discussion and explanation of the diagnosis and treatment at the hospital information centre.

Practical Support

Macmillan have comprehensive website and now provides a 365 days/year help line.  They can advise on welfare benefits, help patients identify government entitlements and under some circumstances provide a grant to cover immediate bills and transport costs.  These grants in NE Lincolnshire currently benefit almost 200 people, amounting to a total of some GBP82,000 per year.

Funding

The Macmillan Organisation is funded 98% through fundraising with the remaining 2% being generated from bank interest.  There are currently about 24,000 people living with cancer in Lincolnshire with a high work place and lifestyle related incidence locally.  The requirement for funding is likely to increase as the survival rate gets better.  Continual fundraising is essential to maintain the work of the organisation.