11 July 2022
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The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust inspires young people aged 8-24 to believe in a brighter future living through and beyond cancer. When treatment ends, the Trust’s work begins.
Through free sailing and outdoor adventure activities, young people meet others who have had similar experiences, rediscover independence away from home, and begin to realise what they are capable of again. Most importantly, they stop feeling like the ‘only one’.
Aboard the yachts, they have so much fun learning how to raise the sails, navigate, and be part of a crew at sea. It’s a new adventure where young people take part in lots of things they haven’t done since their diagnosis – or ever.
But sailing is just the vehicle. Everyone has stories to tell as they meet others of a similar age who have been through the same as them, often for the first time. They relate and form bonds with those who ‘get it’ in a way no one else can.
The feelings of acceptance, independence and optimism young people gain through the Trust help them re-establish their place in the world. They return to education or employment, they reconnect with their friends and families.
Whatever that next step is, they know they are not taking it alone. The Trust is there for anyone who is struggling or could do with support, however long off treatment they are.
Dame Ellen MacArthur, the Trust’s founder and patron, said:
“We hear it a lot, that for many young people what happens after treatment can be as difficult, if not even more so, the treatment itself.
“Funding raised by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery has been a game changer in enabling us to reach and have a positive impact on the lives of many hundreds of these young people over the past decade.
“We know the impact the Trust has on the mental wellbeing of young people living through and beyond cancer. Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, more and more will get the support they need to believe in a brighter future.”
People's Postcode Lottery players are helping deserving causes like the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust make a difference every single day. Read more about the range of Charities which our players support.