Willow News - January edition
Welcome to the first Willow News of 2025!
With a new year comes lots of new opportunities to get involved and support seriously ill young adults at a time when they really need it.
In 2024, you helped support 1,270 beneficiaries, with 780 special days and breaks delivered across the UK. Meanwhile, 490 treat boxes were sent to those who were unable to participate in an experience.
None of this would have been possible without your generosity and we look forward to seeing what we can achieve together in 2025!
Maria's Special Break
Maria, 29, from Hampshire was diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant with her daughter, Sophia. Willow arranged a special break to Edinburgh for Maria, her husband Lewis and Sophia, giving them the chance to bond as a family.
"When I was 34 weeks pregnant I found a lump on my left breast. We went to get it checked and I was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. This was a massive shock. Two weeks later I was induced and our baby was born healthy and happy. I went into surgery one week after that, followed by radiotherapy and chemo.
"It was a very hard period for us. My husband is self-employed so was having to take time off to take me and baby to our many appointments. It was putting us behind on bills and meant everything became a struggle. Lewis was working seven days a week just to catch up.
"It was amazing to be able to get away from it all on my special break. It gave us a chance to bond as a family and try move on from what has happened over the last few months. With the cost of living and my husband having to take time off work, it has made getting away impossible for us. Charities like Willow are our only hope. We are so grateful."
Introducing our newest ambassador
We are delighted to announce former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper, Petr Cech, has joined Willow as out newest ambassador!
Petr has been involved with Willow for many years, attending various events and making generous contributions towards the charity’s mission. Most recently, the former goalkeeper attended the ICAP Charity Day on their behalf, alongside David Seaman and Marlon Harewood.
We would like to extend a very warm welcome to Petr and look forward to continuing our work with him.
Looking for a challenge in 2025?
Want to achieve something spectacular this year? In 2025, we have various opportunities to make your own lasting memories while raising money to allow seriously ill young adults the chance to do the same.
领英推荐
Skydive
Experience the thrill of jumping from 10,000 feet by taking part in a sponsored tandem skydive for Willow. No experience is required to jump as our trusted provider, Skyline Skydiving, will give you all the training you need on the day.
?? Date: Sunday 22 June
?? Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire
Trek
In September we will be climbing the highest peak in North Africa, the famous Mt Toubkal, and we would love for you to join us! Reaching altitudes of 4,167m, this five day trip through the dramatic Toubkal National Park offers a unique challenge for adventurous trekkers. ?
?? Date: Thursday 11 September – Tuesday 16 September 2025
?? Location: Jbel Toubkal in the Atlas Mountain range, Morocco
London Football Awards
Next month will see the return of the esteemed London Football Awards. Taking place at Wembley Stadium, this year's event is guaranteed to be a night to remember!
?? Date: Thursday 27 February 2025
?? Venue: Wembley Stadium, London
?? Tickets: From ￡350pp or ￡3,500 for a table
Don’t miss out, buy your tickets today and join us for an evening celebrating the best of London football across the Premier League, WSL and EFL.
Please share these monthly updates with your team and contact [email protected] if you would like to find out more about any of the opportunities available.