June has seen scorching temperatures – but this hasn’t stopped our fantastic fundraisers from supporting Velindre to the fullest. In the last month you’ve completed half marathons, climbed mountains, and held a range of entertainment events ranging from memorial balls to comedy festivals. You’ve continued to out do yourselves, raising thousands of funds to help provide vital services for cancer patients in Wales. Let’s take a look at your achievements!
Jane’s Dazzling Memorial Ball In Memory Of Alyson Squire
”Aly was such a special friend. I thought it would be really nice to do an event in her memory and to raise funds for Velindre, as she sadly passed away last year after battling cancer.”
Kyle Smith and Rachel Bawden ran Swansea’s Half Marathon 2026
Kyle’s mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017, and received her care here at Velindre. Fortunately, she was given the all clear – but the hospital of hope left a huge impact on the family, inspiring Kyle to take on the Swansea half in aid of Velindre.
”Since then I’ve always fundraised for Velindre. Whether it be running or music performances (working musician).
If I was going to raise money for a cause, it would no doubt be for Velindre.”
Rachel Bawden, Dan and Sarah completed Swansea Half for Steve’s brother Jon who was diagnosed with metastatic thymus cancer in May 202.
”He’s received amazing cancer care at Velindre Cancer Centre”
Thank you so much to both Rachel, Dan, Sarah and Kyle for running for Velindre – every step makes a difference.
Kathryn Hall and a team of 14 climbed Pen Y Fan
On 13 June 2026, Kathryn and 14 others came together to walk up Pen Y Fan in support of Velindre. Kathryn explained: ”The walk was dedicated to everyone affected by cancer, especially Beckie Callaghan, who is beginning her own cancer journey.
Throughout the climb, we encouraged and supported one another, making sure every member of our group reached the summit. Reaching the top together was a proud moment and reflected the strength and unity behind our cause.
After the walk, we met for lunch and continued our fundraising efforts. We were incredibly grateful for the generosity of the local community, who came together to support us with donations and encouragement.
It was a fantastic day that raised both funds and awareness for a cause close to our hearts.”
An amazing accomplishment – well done team!
Henry and company Little Wander’s Comedy Festival in Machynlleth
Henry is currently a patient at Velindre, and wanted to give back to the cancer service for, in his own words, ‘saving his life’.
Henry and his company put together their annual Machynlleth comedy festival in aid of Velindre, hosted by long-time Velindre Ambassador and Patron, Rhod Gilbert. The event raised an incredible £11,266.67 – Henry was very excited to have this cheque presentation, and with good reason!
We’re blown away by how much this creative way of fundraising has contributed – thank you to all at Little Wander team!
Tracey Reynolds and family took on a Zip Line Challenge
Tracey’s daughter Molly is a Young Amabassador for Velindre Cancer cHarity, and has been since 2022 after her sister Lucy was also one.
Tracey explained that ”Their grandad (my dad) got diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2021, after treatment and an operation he then got diagnosed with secondary lung cancer. We have raised money on and off since.”
This year, the family took on the fastest Zipwire in the UK: Velocity, at Zip World in North Wales.
”We do not know how much time we have but we want to make amazing memories while we can.” Thank you to Tracey and the entire Reynolds family for their ongoing, unwavering support.
Carys Hill and her mum took on the Beacons Way 99mile Challenge
Carys told us: ”Velindre is very close to our hearts. On the 3rd of June, it will be a year since my dad unfortunately passed away. Before he died, he received almost 5 years of outstanding treatment, care and support from the team at Velindre, which undoubtedly extended his life and was still effective at the time of his death.
I chose to undertake this challenge in his memory, to allow others to receive the life changing treatment, just like my dad did.” They both trekked through a heatwave, but Carys shared they got through it together:
”The event went very well, it was challenging both physically and mentally, but all worth it for such an amazing charity! Walking this tough route through the heatwave, made it a whole lot harder, but with my mam’s motivation, we kept going and fought through the heat. My mam walked every step of the way with me and I’m forever grateful for her!”.
Jo Thompsons Annual Ladies Lunch
Jo Thompson held her annual ladies lunch on Saturday 6th June at Penarth Masonic Hall, and once again, it was a sell-out event. The event raised £3000 for Velindre!
Next year will be the 25th ladies lunch and they are going big. As well as this event, Jo does an annual Christmas Carols evening with Cardiff Arms Park Male Voice Choir. Thank you for your efforts Jo!
Ben Britton runs Royal Sutton Fun Run in memory of his mum Karen
Ben ran the 8.5 mile Royal Sutton Fun Run in aid of Velindre, with a deeply personal motivation that kept him going.
Ben said ”This will be the third year I will run this event, and this year I want to raise money for a charity that took care of someone very special to me, my mum.”
A huge well done to Benfor completing her challenge – and a massive thank you for doing it in aid of Velindre. Karen would be so proud.
A groundbreaking month for fundraising!
June has been a true testament to the creativity, passion, and dedication of our amazing fundraisers. With a whole range of events and challenges, it’s clear that no matter what the activity or idea – Velindre is at the heart!
Time and time again, our supporters go above and beyond – and we feel so lucky to be surrounded by such kindness and commitment. Your efforts, energy, and ideas continue to inspire us every single day.
Thank you for being part of #TeamVelindre — we can’t wait to see what next month brings!
Feeling inspired by our incredible June fundraisers?
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