First Bus Goes Pink to Support Local Breast Cancer Needs

As part of Breast Cancer Awareness month, First Buses in Norwich are linking up with the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) to raise funds and awareness for the Breast Cancer Support Group by organising pink dress down days and other activities at the Norwich depot on 11 October in addition to holding collecting days on the Pink Bus route on 11th October and the Blue route on 18th October.

Chelsea De Silva, Regional PR and Marketing Manager First Bus said, ‘One of our staff members has recently undergone treatment for breast cancer at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. She is making a good recovery and is back at work but we wanted to raise money to help local patients who experience breast cancer. The fund helps women in a very practical way. Our drivers on the Pink Route will be wearing pink T-shirts and we hope our customers will dig deep and give generously on our collection days.’

Michelle Todd, Breast Care Specialist Nurse at the NNUH said: “We are really grateful that First Buses, Norwich have got behind Breast Cancer Awareness month and are helping to raise funds for our patients”.

Louise Cook added: “We are so grateful that people support Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Charitable Fund. Whilst the NHS provides the necessities, the charity funds projects that make the hospital experience a better one for our patients, visitors and staff. We are always looking for people to get involved in fundraising so please contact us if you would like to help.”

For further information about NNUH and to find out how to support the charity, please call 01603 287107 or visit www.nnuh.nhs.uk

NOTES TO EDITORS
The Breast Cancer Patient Support Fund was established in 1992 by a local practice nurse who had breast cancer and wanted to set up a group to help other local people affected by breast cancer. The fund supports patient of the NNUH in many ways, for example the Breast Care Department at the NNUH organise a relaxation group which helps patients to learn relaxation skills and gentle exercise to cope with the stresses that naturally follow from such a diagnosis and treatment. This group is not part of the standard NHS treatment. Another example of how the fund has helped was by funding the purchase of a mastectomy bra for a woman with financial difficulties. One young patient stated “The difference the fund made for me was being able to get a good quality fitted bra as opposed to a make do”. A small donation can have a huge impact on these local women’s lives and in the current economic climate donations are dwindling and consequently the longevity of the fund cannot be guaranteed.