A Frome charity has reported a successful year of fundraising in 2025 in memory of Lisa Wells, who died from bowel cancer in 2019.
Lisa’s Army helps cancer patients create lasting memories by providing days out, experiences and special treat boxes for those going through chemotherapy.
The charity was set up in 2020, after Lisa died from bowel cancer on 17th August 2019. She launched the charity before she died and, ever since, the team has been dedicated to fundraising, holding events and working hard to offer support, help and positive experiences to individuals facing a cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
“We have had a good year of fundraising and raised nearly £5,000,” said Lisa’s mum, Deanna Wells. “Fundraising can be hard and we do need more than that to keep going properly but we have a really dedicated committee. We have a few new ones join us. Lisa started this charity; we have got to keep it going.”
Fundraising events last year included a bucket collection in Asda and at a Bristol City football match, a disco, a family fun day, a coffee morning and a fishing competition organised by Lisa’s husband, Dan. Members of Lisa’s Army also took part in the Frome Running Festival in August.
Deanna said, “We are just really trying to get our name out there to lots of different people. Frome Childminders did a sponsored walk for us with all the children. They walked their little socks off and walked all the way up the Whatcombe Road hill. They are only aged between two and four and they raised quite a few hundred pounds.
“Lisa’s sister, her husband and Lisa’s dad all took part in the Frome Running Festival. We didn’t do it for the fundraising aspect but we had a lot of money come through. I was really touched because we weren’t officially doing it for the charity as it was a last-minute thing. People were cheering them on, it was marvellous.”
The team has been able to provide treat boxes, days out and experiences to people with cancer and their families. While they mainly focus on the chemotherapy unit at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, Deanna said they will also support the chemo unit due to open at the Frome Community Hospital.
“I remember sitting with Lisa through chemo for a long time and she used to have six hours at a time, so the treat boxes are there to help get them through it,” said Deanna.
“We have also provided Red Letter Days and vouchers. This year we have given out about half a dozen Airbnb vouchers. These are quite popular for people. We have also done lots of flowers and helping to fund extra therapy. Normally, you do get some sessions free but we can help fund extra if that is needed.
“It’s down to the person really and what they feel they need. We have a budget because of fundraising but we are trying to get all sorts of things going to increase our funds.
“We are going to hopefully reach out to local businesses to see if they want to contribute mainly towards the chemo boxes. Anything is gratefully received.
“We have also made a £2,500 donation to Dorothy House towards the children’s therapy, which we do every year. Lisa’s daughter had therapy there. It’s just so worthwhile.”
This year, the charity’s plans include a possible pig race and another family fun day. “We are looking at maybe changing our plans around for the family fun day,” said Deanna. “We may look to move it into town and get a few different things going with it.”
The team is also welcoming new committee members to join them. Deanna said, “We are after anyone else that wants to join; we are an easy-going group. Just get in touch through the website or message us via social media.”
“Lisa’s Army would be grateful for any donations towards our fundraising to continue to help people and their families going through cancer and to make lasting memories. We have a JustGiving page or just get in touch. Contact us through our social media sites, via the Lisa’s Army website or ring Deanna on 07754 720306.”
