Go Gold for Childhood Cancer: Ryland View Care Home Raises Over £400 for Chris Lucas Trust

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Ryland View Care Home hosted its “Go Gold” day on Friday to raise funds for the Chris Lucas Trust, a charity dedicated to research on rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer affecting children and teenagers. The event, filled with fun activities, brought together residents, staff, and families, all eager to contribute to the cause.

The care home’s lawn became a hub of excitement as a home car wash, sponsored leg waxes, and gold ribbon sales attracted enthusiastic participation. The event also featured a touching balloon release, accompanied by music and a delicious spread of burgers and hot dogs. In a light-hearted twist, the crowd had a great time watching Tom, the home’s cook, and Chris, a resident’s son, bravely get their legs waxed for charity. “You can tell by the pics and videos it was a tad bit painful!” the organizers shared with a chuckle.

Admin Jess, who spearheaded the event alongside Sarah, expressed her gratitude, noting that the cause is deeply personal for her. “This has been such a successful day,” she said. “It’s something very close to my heart after losing my younger sister to cancer 10 years ago. To raise this amount of money has been amazing! You can always count on Team Ryland!”

The day was equally meaningful for the rest of the staff, with Tracey, a Senior Care Worker, sharing her thoughts on the event’s success. “It has been a very successful day, especially to support Jess and other children. We also enjoyed waxing the gent’s legs—can’t beat a bit of payback when they wind you up at work! All for a good cause, haha!”

Cook Tom, who courageously volunteered for the leg waxing, joked about his experience. “I will always help out for charity where I can. My legs are very sore and haven’t got much hair left, but it’s all for a good cause. It’s been a fab day!”

The day’s festivities weren’t only for the staff. Norman, a resident new to Ryland View, reflected on the event with a smile. “It’s been lovely to sit outside and join in with this charity day—what a great idea! I enjoyed my cheeseburger as well. The girls have worked hard to pull this off and raise as much as they have. With me being new here, it’s great to be involved!”

A special mention went to Kitchen Assistant Hugh, who not only kept the music flowing as DJ but also powered through the car wash queue, and to staff members Shell and Tracey, who came in on their day off to lend a hand.

Thanks to the dedication of Jess, Sarah, and the entire Ryland View team, over £400 was raised for the Chris Lucas Trust, honoring the memory of Jess’s sister and supporting a cause close to the hearts of many. The day was a testament to the power of community and the impact of coming together for a common cause.

The event was not just a success in terms of fundraising but also a joyful experience that will be fondly remembered by all who attended.