The Weston Park Cancer charity has shared details about their aims and upcoming events as they prepare for the Sheffield half marathon at the end of the month, having raised over £20,000 last year.
Fundraising support assistant, Rebecca Riley said: “We were so grateful to our runners for raising such an amazing amount. Most people do tend to fundraise for us because they have been affected by cancer either personally or someone they know, but people have many different reasons.”
The Sheffield half marathon will take place on the 29 March. It’s one of South Yorkshire’s biggest events of its kind and sees people of all abilities coming together to raise thousands of pounds for all sorts of causes.
Riley joined the Weston Park Cancer charity in 2025. “I had always wanted to work for a charity and had always been aware of Weston Park hospital as I have known people treated there.”
Approximately 3.6 Million people in the UK are affected by cancer, with an average of 168.000 deaths caused each year.
The charity aims to help those living with and beyond cancer, as well as the families and loved ones affected. Ms Riley said: “We wish to help however we can throughout this journey, whether its practical, emotional or financial support.”
When asked about the most rewarding part of her job, she said “it’s definitely seeing how much patients feel the charity has helped them, and seeing how appreciative they are. I am part of the fundraising team and get to hear amazing stories of what people have achieved, as well as the stories that have led to them wanting to fundraise.
“I am often located in our charity hub where our transport service runs from. This is a complementary service which offers services to Barnsley, Rotherham, Meadowhall and Chesterfield, helping patients get in for their appointments when otherwise they may have turned down treatment or been financially affected.”
As the charity looks forward to the half marathon, Ms Riley highlights the importance of raising awareness about the charity and their services: “Some people are not aware of the services we offer and we are always trying to spread awareness of this as much as possible. But the main thing is that we want people to know that they are not alone during this time.”
Photo courtesy of Weston Park Cancer charity Facebook page.