That Time Downing Street Came Calling For Me

Empowering Change: My Journey In Fundraising & Advocacy

I won't even pretend to be cool about this...Lol.

Getting an invitation to visit Downing Street was surreal and humbling! At first, I couldn't believe it, but it felt like a big pat on the back for all the hard work and dedication I've put into marathon running, fundraising, and raising awareness for Sarcoma UK. A thumbs-up for the impact I've been striving to make if you will.

The visit was more than just a symbolic gesture; it really inspired me to grow personally and get more involved in my community. The recognition I received gave me a new boost of energy and confidence to keep speaking up for causes that are important to me, especially raising awareness and support for rare cancer issues. It also opened my eyes to the power of recognition in motivating individuals to contribute to their communities, and I am now more committed than ever to inspiring others to get involved.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the experience was meeting Jeremy Hunt, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and connecting with other sarcoma cancer survivors and dedicated fundraisers. The shared commitment and passion in the room were palpable, and it was a powerful reminder that we are not alone in this journey.

Overall, the entire Downing Street experience left an indelible mark on me. It has not only inspired me to work even harder but has also reinforced my belief in the power of making a positive change through unwavering persistence and dedication.

But let's shift gears for a minute. 

Having delved into the world of fundraising since winning the Mrs EL Universe title, I now understand the challenges raising money for charities can present. It's really hard, and that is by no means an exaggeration. Why...? you may ask. Well, over the past few years, I've encountered many folks who feel that their cash won't make a blind bit of difference, and as a result, they hold back. The truth is, fundraising is a constant battle against indifference, misconceptions, and the sheer volume of need. And I get it - issues like cancer, which affects thousands of people, can feel overwhelming and way too big a problem to solve in our lifetime.

However, each time I hear that complaint, my response is that every contribution, no matter how small, matters, and the smallest actions can lead to big changes.

So, how do we change perceptions and get more people to fall head-over-heels in love with donating to causes?

I firmly believe that by sharing personal stories and providing donors with concrete facts and figures about how their contributions can lead to tangible results, we can significantly change the perception of donating. This engagement is key to inspiring more people to enjoy the act of giving.

x