Thursday, 31 March 2011

Mercedes-Benz of Bedford Continue Their Support For The Bedford Macmillan Primrose Unit

At the beginning of 2010 the decision was reached following a majority vote to raise funds for the second year running, for some potentially ground breaking breast cancer research on behalf of The Bedford Macmillan Primrose Unit by a team at the local Cranfield University. Whilst the number of women suffering from breast cancer has increased over the past 25 years, the chances of cure have greatly improved. However, the “triple negative” group are hard to treat because they do not benefit from hormone therapies or Herceptin. This project is trying to find out whether these tumours have other targets or proteins which may be sensitive to the male hormone androgen. If a pattern is found, this information will help direct future research into new drug strategies.

Throughout 2010, three major events helped to boost the amount of money raised; including a sponsored 'Cycle Ride' in May, a 'Golf Day' in July and last but not least a 'Cheese & Wine Tasting' event in November. Staff, suppliers and customers were involved in all three events which added to the 'team spirit' ethos. In addition to these events. Raffles, cake baking sales and other fundrasing iniatives were held at the dealership and supplemented by generous contributions from customers. These events raised over £350, and in addition helped to raise awareness levels of the campaign throughout the year. The events provided a major focal point for the whole business during the past year, and hopefully the research carried out as a result of their efforts will help in the quest for a cure one day for breast cancer.

It comes as no surprise to learn that Mercedes-Benz of Bedford have once again selected the Macmillan unit as their chosen charity for 2011. In March 2011 Professor Rob Thomas of The Primrose Unit and Dr Sarah Morgan, leading the research team at Cranfield were presented with a cheque of £2,500 which brought the grand total over two years to £10,900, an excellent achievment.

2011 also looks set to be another year full of fund raising activities for a very worthy cause. Senior Technician at Mercedes-Benz of Bedford Dan Baverstock plans on participating in the London Marathon on 17th April 2011, three members of staff also plan to cycle from Newcastle to Bedford in the summer all generously for the same cause.

If you wish to make a donation, please visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/DanielBaverstock or alternativley call 01234 272888 to sponsor Daniel.

Please stay tuned for other fundraising events.