The Lisa’s Army team will once again be running collections and events around Frome this year to raise vital funds for the charity, helping to create lasting memories for people undergoing cancer treatment and their families.
Lisa’s Army was founded in April 2020 after local woman Lisa Wells died from bowel cancer. The charity’s mission is to fulfil Lisa’s vision of helping cancer patients create everlasting memories.
The charity is hosting a range of fundraising events this year, including an 80s and 90s disco at Badger’s Hill on Saturday 15th March, and some local childminders will be taking on sponsored walks to support the cause.
Other events planned include a collection at Asda in May or June (date to be confirmed), a summer fete on 7th September at Frome Rugby Club and a Christmas fair on 22nd November at The Bennett Centre.
With the help of fundraising, the team provides beauty treatments and pamper packages, photo shoots, red letter excursions and bespoke individual interest events.
“Last year we helped numerous people obtain things that may not have been possible given the situation they are in,” explained Lisa’s mum, Deanna Wells. “We gave away annual passes to Longleat, tickets for Harry Potter World, Airbnb vouchers for weekends away, and day trips out.”
The team also provides ‘treat baskets’ for people undergoing chemotherapy at the Royal United Hospital in Bath’s Dyson Centre. “It is so hard to be sat there for anything from an hour to seven hours, so our boxes contain things that we hope make their stay a little better, from sweets to colouring books and lots of other goodies,” said Deanna.
Over the past year, Deanna said the team has seen an increase in people using the service. “You don’t have to be terminally ill to use the charity; it’s open to anyone who has cancer,” she said.
Lisa’s Army has also continued its £2,500 donation to Dorothy House to help fund therapy and play.
If anyone is interested in having a stall at the summer or Christmas fetes, contact events@lisasarmy.co.uk or ring 07754 720306.
Pictured: Members of Lisa’s Army at a previous summer fete
