Nick Smith MP for Blaenau Gwent is encouraging local people to raise a mug in support of Macmillan this Friday (Sep 25th) – even if local events are unable to take place.

Now in its 30th year, the charity fundraiser usually sees millions of pounds donated to help support people affected by cancer.

Due to coronavirus the event is facing a staggering 71% income drop of £20 million, a fundraising fall which could risk more than 80,000 cancer patients missing out on support from a Macmillan nurse next year.

This year fundraisers who are unable to hold safe and socially distanced events can also sign up for the first ever Coffee Morning Challenge, tackling a run, walk or cycle to raise cash. Others are taking to social media and raising a mug for people living with cancer, while donating and using the hashtag #raiseamug.

Speaking about their support for the annual fundraising event, Nick Smith MP said: “This is always a great event each year in support of a fantastic charity.
“Coronavirus is presenting a huge challenge to charities like Macmillan and it is having a worrying impact on the amount of money that is being raised.

“If people are able to hold a virtual event or raise money in any of the other ways suggested it would be a great help to the charity, the nurses and those who rely on their support.”
Steven McIntosh, Head of Policy, Campaigns and Influencing at Macmillan Cancer Support said: “Between the disruption caused to diagnosis and treatment and the fear of increased risk of becoming infected with coronavirus, there has never been a more worrying time in recent history to receive a cancer diagnosis.

“At Macmillan we are determined to be there for everyone affected by cancer, but it is safe to say we are facing the hardest year in our 109-year history.

“The demand for our services and support is huge and this comes at a time when we are experiencing a dramatic and sustained drop in our income, 98% of which comes from events like our coffee morning.

“It’s no exaggeration to say Macmillan and people with cancer have never needed the public’s help more than we do right now.”

However you choose to support Macmillan Coffee Morning, you can visit https://coffee.macmillan.org.uk for ideas.

For information or support relating to cancer, call Macmillan’s Support Line on 0808 808 00 00 (8am to 8pm Monday to Friday) or visit www.macmillan.org.uk

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