Motivated by their own experiences and the many family members and friends affected by the disease, Jasmine Reeve of The Elemental Sanctuary, Ellie Cooper, a support worker in Wigan, and Bryony Reeve of Pacair Ltd, set out to make a difference.
For Ellie, the cause is especially close to home, with her mother recently diagnosed with breast cancer and her uncle bravely battling cancer before sadly passing away. Jasmine and Bryony have also been supporting many loved ones through similar challenges.
With the backing of their community, what began as a modest goal to raise £3,000 quickly grew into something far greater, with the response and generosity of supporters exceeding all expectations.
The powerful display of community spirit has helped raise more than £9,000. All proceeding going directly to The Manchester Cancer Research Institute, one of the UK’s leading centres for cancer research and innovation.
The fund-raising initiative began with a wellness morning hosted by The Elemental Sanctuary.
The event brought together local women, many of whom are either supporting loved ones through cancer or facing their own cancer journeys.
The morning offered a welcoming and uplifting space focused on wellbeing and connection.
Guests enjoyed mindfulness meditation, a relaxed “sip and paint” session, and a high lunch accompanied by bottomless prosecco.
The atmosphere was one of support, reflection and positivity, with attendees sharing stories, encouragement and hope.
For many, it was more than a wellness event — it was a reminder that no one faces cancer alone.
The organisers later hosted a evening fundraising party that welcomed nearly 200 guests.
The turnout exceeded expectations, and the organisers say they were “blown away” by the incredible support from family, friends and the wider community.
The success of the event was made possible thanks to generous sponsorship from several businesses.
Pacair Ltd and C & C Baseline Architectural Ltd were early sponsors, while local business Ultima Skills Ltd also stepped forward to offer additional support.
Their collective contributions helped secure a beautiful venue Haigh Barn.
Allan, the venue coordinator was eager to provide a venue large enough to host the growing number of attendees.
Food for the event was provided by Buffet Magic. Despite already being fully booked that day, owner Jack generously agreed to help at the last minute. Not only did he supply a buffet free of charge, he also presented it with professional styling.
The organisers described his support as “incredibly kind” and said they felt “very lucky” to have such generosity from local businesses.
They approached local artists Rob Jones and Andy Mack for their support in their fundraising initiative; as valued members of the Wigan community.
The performers enjoyed a genuine show of appreciation and celebration as they kindly volunteered their time in support of the fundraiser.
Community involvement continued through a large raffle and charity auction, with local businesses donating prizes.
Contributions included vouchers from Cherry Tree Blackrod, Wigan Brewhouse Brewery and Taproom, Café Rosso, a tattoo voucher from Call of the Void Tattoo and many more.
The evening’s auction also featured holiday packages and signed memorabilia, helping drive the fundraising total beyond £9,000.
Looking ahead, the organisers plan to make the fundraiser an annual event and are already exploring future opportunities to support cancer research.
They are currently liaising with Ashleigh from Cancer Research UK about future collaborations and events.
Plans are also under way to arrange laboratory tours, giving supporters a closer look at the vital research their fundraising helps to support.
What began as a personal mission has now grown into a passion for organising meaningful community events.
The team says they have discovered a real love for event planning and are excited to continue creating events that bring people together while raising funds for important causes.
“We are incredibly proud of what our community has achieved together,” the organisers said.
“Cancer affects so many families, including our own.
"Knowing that we have been able to contribute towards research that could help future patients means everything. This is only the beginning."
4. Contributed
Tree of ribbons representing different cancer diagnosis'. Attendees contributing throughout the evening. Photo: Submitted