Aim high with QMC abseil

Notts County FC goalie Kevin Pilkington, young cancer patient David Passfield and CLIC Sargent Youth Development Worker Rachael Ewing have been climbing to dizzy heights to encourage people to sign up for an 85ft abseil from the roof of the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham.

CLIC Sargent is looking for brave people with a head for heights to help raise thousands of pounds by abseiling 85ft from the roof of the Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham on Sunday 27th July.  To encourage local people to take the plunge Notts County FC shot-stopper Kevin Pilkington is donating a Manchester United football shirt, signed by himself, to the person who raises the most in sponsorship.

All money raised by the QMC abseil will go towards helping CLIC Sargent support children and young people with cancer, and their families, across the region.  The charity provides all round care and support, from financial help to specialist nurses, doctors and youth workers, both in hospital and in the community.  Rachael Ewing is a CLIC Sargent Youth Development Worker based at the QMC and she helps young people with cancer between 13 and 24 years old bring a sense of normality back to their lives. 

“Cancer can be isolating for children and young people.  Treatments like chemotherapy mean that they can’t run around and keep up with their friends and they may find it difficult explaining to their mates what they are going through,” explains Rachel.  “They really value the support of each other and it is amazing to see what a difference it makes for them to socialise with others their own age who are going through the same experiences.” 

One aspect of Rachael’s role is to organise activity trips for young people going through treatment for cancer which help restore confidence, build character and learn new skills – like abseiling.  These trips are very expensive but Rachael knows first hand how important they are.  “I have seen some young adults come back from activity trips as different people and we get such positive feedback.”

Rachael continues, “The more people who register for this fantastic abseil in Nottingham, the more money we will raise and the more activities we can offer young people with cancer or leukaemia.”

Notts County FC goalkeeper Kevin Pilkington is keen to see as many people as possible take part in the abseil.  He says, “What a great opportunity to do something amazing for such a worthwhile cause.  I’d like to wish everyone taking part the best of luck – just don’t look down!”

Spaces for this unique opportunity are filling up fast and CLIC Sargent is keen to encourage as many people as possible to take part.  Registration costs just £10 and participants are asked to raise a minimum of £100 each to take part.

For more information or to register for the QMC abseil contact Dee Richardson, Event Fundraising Manager for CLIC Sargent on 0113 2307902. 

Notes to Editor:

• For more information contact Ruth Bowen, Press Officer, CLIC Sargent on 0117 314 8617 or ruth.bowen@clicsargent.org.uk