Wynsors are very proud that one of our own, Dennis Farrell is taking part in the BUPA Great North Run next weekend to raise money for MacMillan! Dennis, who is Area Manager for 10 stores, is now focused to raising even more money for the organisation.
In an interview Dennis told us all about his fundraising efforts, what it means to him and the reasons behind it.
Firstly, what is your position at Wynsors?
My official job title is Area Manager. I am responsible for the staff and also work closely with senior managers and store managers.
Can you tell us why you are doing this?
I am trying to raise as much money as possible for MacMillan Cancer Support! I have always liked a challenge so I thought I would put that into good use to raise money for those people that need it most. I was looking to find a way of pushing myself and testing my fitness and I feel these running challenges allow this.
Have you done anything like this before?
Yes I have done the Great North Run before and vowed never again as it took me 2 hours 26 minutes which resulted in having very sore legs for weeks later. I have also done the Manchester run on a few occasions which I completed recently in 53 minutes 18 sec and that was 10 minutes faster than the previous year. So I am hoping to keep improving on my times.
Why have you chosen MacMillan to fundraise for?
MacMillan is a charity Wynsors took to their hearts from the realisation of the number of people affected by cancer that benefit from their help and support. I want to do as much as I possibly can in helping them with their journey in helping others.
What are you doing to prepare for the run?
I am trying to run at least 18 miles a week when injury free as I have just recently had a problem with a swollen knee which had an impact on training. I have also lost 2 stone 12 lbs since January this year on slimming world which has been a great help.
Do you have a target in regards to the money you want to raise?
I would like to raise at least £1000 from this run but I know that times are hard for people but times are harder for those that need our constant help and support through their difficult times during their different stages of illnesses.
How much has Wynsors raised so far for MacMillan?
At the moment the total stands just over £50,000 with hopefully much more to come!
What would be your advice for those wanting to do something similar?
Just go out there and do it because you can make a difference to so many people’s lives that will benefit from all the charities support from counselling to finances.
Best of Luck! How can people make a donation?
By visiting your local Wynsors store and donating into the collection buckets provided.
Texting: Evun63 with the amount (£10) to 70070
Visiting the Just Giving page
In an interview Sebastian Farrell a fundraising manager for MacMillan, told us what the work that volunteers do means to them and how people can fundraise.
What does it mean to the charity when people/organisations support the charity by fundraising?
Its means everything, as we have no government funding we rely solely on private donations, without them we wouldn’t be able to provide the service we do!
How can people fundraise for MacMillan?
The easiest way for people to find out about fundraising opportunities is by visiting the website. By entering your postcode into the volunteering section, this will list all the available opportunities there are within your area. It also gives details of the fundraising manager of that particular area – allowing you to contact them directly for opportunities.
Do you have a message for people like Dennis who are fundraising for MacMillan?
We are absolutely overwhelmed by the selflessness of the public, in particular Wynsors go above and beyond and we really cannot thank them enough. We wish Dennis and the rest of our volunteers all the best in their future fundraisers. Not only are they raising vital funds but they are also raising awareness of our great cause that helps out so many people affected by cancer. We really cannot thank them enough!
Below is more information about MacMillan and what they do:
What MacMillan does?
MacMillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer. They offer support and help to people who are affected by cancer, not only the patients who live with cancer, but also the carers, families and communities. They provide practical, medical and financial support and push for better cancer care.
Who they are?
When people are diagnosed they need a team of people supporting them every step of the way – MacMillan does this in many ways.
- Nurses that are a valued and trusted source of expert information and advice, that support you through your treatment.
- A team of experts available on the phone to answer any questions you may have or simply listen if you need a chat.
- A benefits adviser offering specialist advice to help ease money concerns, by informing you of what financial help you are entitled to.
- Volunteers giving a hand with everyday things.
- Campaigners pushing for better cancer care
- Fundraisers that support us so that we can provide our vital services.
- Online community supporting you.
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