A Baguley Tesco colleague is to feature on a Mother’s Day card sold in Tesco across the nation to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
Kieran Jones, who works at the Baguley Extra store, has had his inspiring story and photograph included on a card designed by Hallmark which is on sale in all large Tesco stores. It is hoped the card and Kieran’s story will connect with and support people affected by the disease, as well as raising funds.
Tesco is celebrating its 20th year in partnership with Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life- a series of 3k, 5k, 10k, Pretty Muddy and Pretty Muddy Kids events which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer by funding crucial research.
Money raised through Race for Life events funds world-class research to help beat 200 types of cancer – including bowel cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, testicular cancer, brain cancer, children’s cancers and leukaemia.
Kieran said: “My mum Gillian was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time in December 2019. Our family was devastated by the news, but mum is a fighter; she won her the first time and she will definitely win it again. I’ve supported Race for Life for many years, as it’s a cause so close to my heart.”
COVID-19 has caused a devastating loss of research funding. Cancer Research UK is predicting a staggering £300 million drop in income over the next three years which could put future medical breakthroughs at risk. That’s why the charity is calling on men, women and children to fight back against the devastating disease by entering a Race for Life event. Money raised will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping to save more lives.
Oonagh Turnbull, Head of Charity Campaigns at Tesco said: “We’re incredibly proud of our colleagues who have chosen to share their stories on these cards. We hope they will inspire others facing cancer and the money they raise will make a difference to so many lives.
“For the last 20 years, our partnership with CRUK has helped to raise millions of pounds for life-saving research and our stores continue to take part in events and work hard to ensure it goes from strength to strength.”
Lisa Adams, Cancer Research UK spokesperson, said: “We’d like to thank Tesco for their support and to all their employees who throw themselves heart and soul in to fundraising for the charity.
“By signing up to Race for Life, people can make a real difference in the fight against cancer. All 400 mass-participation Race for Life events across the UK were cancelled last year to protect the country’s health during the COVID-19 pandemic. So this year, more than ever, we need people to come together and help beat the disease.
“The truth is, COVID-19 has slowed us down. But we will never stop and we are absolutely determined to continue to create better cancer treatments for tomorrow.
“Every step our scientists take towards beating cancer relies on our supporters. Our Race for Life events are open to all and we’re sending a heart-felt message to everyone to come together in 2021. As always at our events, the health and safety of participants, staff and volunteers is our top priority. It may be that events look a little different this year but we are working pro-actively with our venues and suppliers to deliver a socially distanced but great experience.”
Participants will set off on the course either alone or in small socially distanced groups. Hand sanitiser will also be provided at all events with participants encouraged to use it before and after the event.
Lisa explained: “We’ll ask participants to respect social distancing before, during and after the event. It means that this year people should refrain from hugging others at the finish line. But we promise our events will remain fun, colourful, emotional and uplifting.
The Mother’s Day cards which are priced at £1 – £1.50 are on sale in a range of large stores from 1st February – 14th March.
To enter, visit raceforlife.org
