Rain couldn’t dampen spirits at Marden Court in Calne today (Tuesday 20th October), as residents took on a sponsored walk to raise money for breast cancer awareness and research.
Taking part in the Breast Cancer Now Wear It Pink campaign, the residents set off from Marden Court, walking to the end of the car park and back. They were cheered on from the sidelines by fellow residents, staff and Calne Town Mayor Tim Havenith, who came along to show his support.
Thankfully, the rain eased off for the walk itself, and the challenge was completed in no time at all.
The event was organised by Dawn Watts, Activity Coordinator at Marden Court, who wanted to give residents the chance to support a cause close to many people’s hearts.
“Sadly, many of us know someone whose life has been affected by breast cancer. As Activity Coordinator at Marden Court, I wanted to give our residents the opportunity to support this important cause while taking part in something they could feel proud of,” Dawn said.
In the month leading up to the event, residents had been knitting items to sell and practising for the walk. They also handed out leaflets in the local community to raise awareness and invite people to join them.
With support from their families, two residents collected more than £230 in sponsorship. The overall amount raised is still being confirmed.
“The residents enjoyed making the knitted items and preparing for the walk. It was lovely to see everyone working together and encouraging one another. Activities like these can support older people’s wellbeing, independence and social connections - and the day was a wonderful example of that,” Dawn said.
The residents’ fundraising efforts included pink knitted headbands and soft toys, alongside official Breast Cancer Now pin badges. The headbands were available for £2 each and the badges for £1, with money raised going towards breast cancer awareness and research.
After completing the challenge, everyone headed back inside to the lounge, where the Mayor presented those who took part with medals to mark their achievement.
He said: “It was wonderful to see the residents at Marden Court come together for this vital cause, and presenting them with their well-earned medals afterwards was a memorable moment.”
The celebrations continued over refreshments, including some fabulous-looking cupcakes decorated especially for the breast cancer awareness event.
Dawn added: “I’m very proud of everyone who took part and grateful to all those who came along to show their support. Seeing our residents feel proud of their achievement was especially rewarding.
“It was a joyful and meaningful day. Our residents worked hard to support a cause close to many people’s hearts, and they should be very proud of what they achieved together.”
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