September Fundraising Wrap Up

Theo’s brave fundraising idea!

When Theo’s beloved Bampy was diagnosed with two types of cancer, kidney and stomach, the family spent months at Velindre, receiving care and compassion from every corner of the hospital.

“Everyone had been so helpful… from the receptionist to the nurses, volunteer staff to the doctors.” 

Unfortunately, following treatment, Theo’s Bampy passed away. The kindness shown by Velindre inspired the family to give back and, it was six-year-old Theo who led the way. 

“Theo decided he wanted to cut his hair to raise money…This was a massive deal for him because he’s been growing his top knot since he was born… it became like a security blanket to him.” 

Theo’s decision sparked a wave of support. An online fundraising page was launched with a goal of £500, and the family organised a charity quiz night and a friendly skittles match with raffles for Theo’s grandfather’s skittles team.  

“Unfortunately my dad passed before getting to see Theo with his new haircut, but he would have loved it.” 

Thank you to Theo and his family for turning love into action for Velindre. You should be so proud of yourself! 

Sian completes the Cardiff 10K!

Sian recently took on the Cardiff 10K with a powerful motivation close to her heart, to honour the memory of her beloved nan and raise funds for Velindre Cancer Centre, a charity that meant the world to them both. 

“My nan was my hero,” 

Years ago, Sian’s nan received cancer treatment at Velindre, and in gratitude for the care she received, she spent the rest of her life fundraising for the centre. Her dedication left a lasting impression on Sian, who wanted to continue that legacy. 

Sadly, Sian’s nan passed away in 2020. This year, on what would have been her birthday — September 7th — Sian and her partner James Harvey took on the Cardiff 10K in her memory. The date also marked a personal milestone for Sian: one year since she began her weight loss journey. She knew her nan would have been incredibly proud to see her running a 10K! 

Despite a wet and thundery morning, the skies cleared just in time for the race. Sian joked that her nan must have had a word with the weather — a small sign, perhaps, that she was watching over them. 

Sian completed the race in 1 hour, 2 minutes, and 56 seconds, while James finished in 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 33 seconds. Together, they raised £300 for Velindre, a heartfelt tribute to a woman who inspired so much love and generosity. 

“This one’s for you, Nan,”

Double the effort, double the passion!

In a remarkable show of endurance, John took on not one, but two Tough Mudder challenges in a single day—raising an incredible £1,060 for Velindre Cancer Centre. A deeply personal tribute to two extraordinary women who shaped his life. 

“Twelve years ago, my mum lost her battle to Lymphoma,” John shared. “During her treatment, mum had multiple visits to Velindre and they offered so much help and support—not only to her but to us as the family as well.” 

Velindre’s support extended beyond that difficult time. Years later, when Ann, Chloe’s nan, was diagnosed, the family once again leaned on the compassion and care of the Velindre team. 

“While things didn’t go the way we wanted, I want to give something back as a thank you to the hard work and care these amazing people provided in helping look after these two amazing women.” 

Completing two Tough Mudders in one day is no small feat. It’s a challenge that demands physical strength, mental toughness, and emotional resilience—all of which John demonstrated in abundance. His fundraising effort is more than just a personal achievement; it’s a heartfelt act of gratitude and remembrance. 

Taking Velindre fundraising to NEW HEIGHTS!

In a bold and breathtaking show of support, the Burridge family recently took on a challenge that’s not for the faint-hearted—a group skydive to raise funds for Velindre Cancer Centre. What started as a terrifying idea turned into an unforgettable experience, filled with emotion, adrenaline, and purpose. 

“The skydive was a success… such a fantastic experience—terrifying but amazing!” one family member shared. “Myself and Kyle have raised nearly £2,500, so we are so proud of this.” 

The family’s fundraising total is still being tallied, with six members having taken part in the jump. But the motivation behind the leap was crystal clear: a heartfelt thank you to Velindre for the care and support they’ve provided through some of the family’s most difficult times. 

The tribute became even more personal last year when Kyle, one of the participating fundraisers and a member of the Burridge family, was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Following an emergency operation to remove the tumour, Velindre stepped in with their compassion and expertise. 

Thank you so much to Burridge family and friends for your kindness and generosity!

A team effort to make a big impact!

On the evening of 6th June 2025, the Band and Drums Branch of the Royal Welsh Regimental Association brought the community together to raise funds for Velindre.  

Held at Risca Top Club, the event combined military tradition with heartfelt entertainment, all in memory of those lost to cancer and in celebration of those who continue to fight. The idea was the brainchild of Ken Holder.

The Branch and the Regimental Band and Corps of Drums, 3rd Battalion the Royal Welsh, have sadly lost a number of members and family members to cancer since the branch’s formation making Velindre a cause close to their heart.

Determined to give back, a small team of branch members came together to organise an evening that would honour both the military spirit and the community’s resilience. Thanks to the incredible generosity of everyone who attended, and the many who donated raffle prizes and auction items, the event raised a phenomenal £3,472.00 for Velindre. 

Football fundraiser scores big!

A team of colleagues laced up their boots and hit the pitch for a 5-a-side charity football tournament, hosted by Business Fives—marking the second time they’ve taken part in the event this year. But this wasn’t just about goals. This time, they played with purpose, choosing to fundraise for Velindre. 

“We chose Velindre because one of our team members has had family directly supported by the centre,” said a spokesperson for the team. “It’s something we all felt strongly about and wanted to support together.” 

The team proudly wore Velindre’s logo on their sleeves, a visible sign of their commitment and solidarity with the cause.  

Fancy dress fun with Velindre at the heart!

Lyn Norman, who is currently receiving treatment at Velindre Cancer Centre, recently turned her home into a hub of generosity and joy by hosting a coffee morning complete with fancy dress and a lively auction of donated items. 

Surrounded by friends, laughter, and a shared sense of purpose, Lyn’s event raised over £250 for Velindre, a place that continues to support her through her treatment journey. 

“It was a wonderful, enjoyable day!” Lyn said, reflecting on the success of the event. 

The coffee morning wasn’t just about raising money, it was about bringing people together, celebrating community spirit, and showing appreciation for the care and compassion Velindre provides every day. 

From quirky costumes to generous auction bids, every moment of the day was filled with heart. Lyn’s story is a beautiful reminder that even small gatherings can make a big impact when driven by love and gratitude. 

Highadmit step up their fundraiser!

On Saturday 19th July 2025, the team at Highadmit Projects swapped their desks for hiking boots and took on the breathtaking but demanding 25KM Gower Peninsula Challenge. 

The challenge saw the team navigating one of Wales’ most scenic coastal landscapes, combining rugged terrain, stunning views, and plenty of team spirit. 

Thanks to the dedication of everyone involved and the generosity of supporters, the team raised an incredible £3,400 for Velindre. Every step taken along the Gower coast helped support patients and families facing cancer and contributed to the life changing work Velindre continues to do every day. 

Solo cycle fuelled by passion!

In an extraordinary show of determination and heart, Steve completed a solo cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats—covering 951 miles in just 15.5 days. His journey was more than a physical challenge; it was a tribute to two remarkable women, Susie Suter and Jean Davies, both of whom were cared for by Velindre Cancer Centre. 

“Got back in one piece having completed the ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 15.5 days,” Steve shared. “A total of 951 miles.” 

Steve’s fundraising efforts have already raised an incredible £9,373.25, with donations still coming in. Supporters contributed both directly to Velindre and through his JustGiving page, moved by his story and the cause behind it. 

“Both Susie and Jean were cared for by this wonderful hospital where the staff are so dedicated—they truly make even the most difficult journeys bearable.” 

Velindre holds a special place in Steve’s heart as his wife, Sam, was treated there in 2011 and is now a cancer survivor. Their personal experience with the centre’s compassionate care made this journey all the more meaningful. 

A difference made with each mile!

Ten years ago, Scott Barry organised a bike ride in memory of his mum, Sandra, to raise funds for Velindre. This year, he brought the event back—this time with even deeper meaning. His mother-in-law Jan was recently diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, and once again, Velindre has been a source of hope and support for his family. 

“It’s been 10 years since the original bike ride for my mum. I’m looking to do it again this year, and there’s even more reason now since my mother-in-law Jan was diagnosed. Velindre have done so much for so many people and they’re giving my family so much hope at this current time.” 

The ride took cyclists from Brecon to Llandaff North Rugby Club, and it was a day filled with sunshine, camaraderie, and community spirit. A total of 34 riders took part, ranging from complete novices—one even picked up their bike the day before—to seasoned cyclists used to long-distance rides. 

“It was so nice to see everyone supporting each other. There was a great team spirit throughout the ride.” 

The halfway point brought everyone together for food and drinks, and the ride became a true family affair. Scott’s 10-year-old son Oliver completed an impressive 23 miles, while 8-year-old Elinor joined in for the final 14 miles.  

“The end of the ride was great. Jan joined us at the Lewis Arms with the rest of the Barry tribe. We ended the ride together with a large crowd to cheer us over the line.” 

The event raised over £5,000, with an additional £1,000 in Gift Aid, thanks to the incredible effort and generosity of everyone involved. 

“So much effort was put in by everyone, but I couldn’t have done it without my wife Rachel, my sister Sam, and my good friend and colleague Alex.” 

With so many people asking to do it again next year, Scott is now looking to make the ride an annual event—a lasting tribute to loved ones and a powerful way to support Velindre’s life-changing work. 

“I managed to complete the Bath Two Tunnels 50K Ultra race in 6 hrs 1 min 31 secs,” Luke shared.  

Despite the scorching heat and the challenge of the distance, Luke pushed through with determination. 

For Luke, this race wasn’t just about personal achievement. It was about giving back to Velindre for the care and compassion they’ve shown his Pop’s and family.

“I wanted to do something to give back to Velindre for the amazing support and care they have provided. The only way I knew how was to run, so I thought—what better way than a 50K Ultra!” 

At the end of the race, Luke made a touching gesture: he gave his medal to his Pop’s, a symbol of love, strength, and gratitude. 

“I wanted to give Pop’s something to remember so I gave him my medal. Even though it was a hard race, it was worth it!”