These days, everyone knows someone whose life has been touched by cancer. And, as Christmas draws closer, thoughts will turn to those who are no longer with us to celebrate.

With Lights to Remember - the EDP and Marie Curie Cancer Care appeal formerley known as Tree of Lights – we have the chance to mark the passing of loved ones – by helping others. Names of loved ones will be entered into a Christmas Book of Remembrance. The money will be used to ensure those terminally ill with cancer can be cared for at home in their final days.

About 65pc of patients want to die at home but only about 25pc were able to do so for various reasons. The nurses and other healthcare professionals who work for the charity are funded half by the National Health Service and half by Marie Curie.

In 2003, more than £11,000 was raised to help pay for the free, skilled, palliative care Marie Curie’s team is able to provide.

Click here for a donation form to print
Marie Curie Cancer Care website

Services

The appeal culminates in a service at Norwich Cathedral on December 8 at 7.30pm. There are also services at St Michael’s Church in Beccles on December 5 at 6.30pm, St Edmund’s in Southwold on December 8 at 7pm and St Margaret’s, King’s Lynn, on December 16 at 7.30pm.


Glitter Up on December 10

Marie Curie is also encouraging children and adults to pay £1 and wow their friends by donning shimmering sequins, glittery make-up or a bedazzling bowtie on December 10.

It is something that Anglia TV weathergirl Becky Mantin is more than willing to do.

“The Glitter Up campaign is a smashing idea. What a brilliant way to make fund-raising a laugh – and a great excuse to get ready early for a night out too.

“Exactly what we all need to get us in the mood for the Christmas party season – and for such a good cause too.

“Marie Curie Cancer Care does incredible work for people living with cancer and I’m very proud to be involved in this campaign,” she added.

For more information about Glitter Up Friday contact Jennifer Holloway or David Went at the Norfolk Fundraising Office on 01603 633806 or visit 5 Magdalen Street, Norwich, and pick up a pack.