WellyWalk

WellyWalk; Family Forum Organised by Parents for Families Affected by Childhood Cancer

Why a charity called WellyWalk?

WellyWalk started with fundraising in July 2009. Nursery and school children plus adult helpers walked around the school playing field wearing their favourite boots even though it was summer and very sunny which for sure appealed to everyone's sense of humour.

Welly boots in summer? Is it fun? Yes it is.

WellyWalk's vision is to support those affected by childhood cancer from the child and family's perspective, creating an easy access forum, connecting and supporting existing medical and charitable groups and sharing news about good practice.

WellyWalk currently has the privilege of being part of the parent representation on the South Coast Cancer Network Group which implements guidelines for improving outcomes for children and young people and works closely with Shared Care Environments in the region. In addition attends the Central South Coast Cancer Network Patient Partnership Group and as part of this will present at the Multi-Professional Cancer Conference 2011 organised by the Central South Coast Cancer Network which this year has the focus Effective Patient Care.

All affected by childhood cancer, whether it be family, friends, connected individuals or groups, such as children's schools and nurseries often want to ask questions (without the risk or fear of creating additional upset) because they want to do the best they can by the family.

What has become apparent is that families are often keen to do something to say thank you for the work that the medical team do but sometimes are unsure how to best go about this and are limited in terms of time. The fundraising connection with schools and nurseries provides the opportunity of an accessible framework for families to fundraise for their shared care area. The aim is to promote the positive elements of families, children and young people supporting those like themselves.

Children who are affected by childhood cancer show such determination, sense of humour and zest for life that it is inspirational for everyone who has the pleasure of knowing them.