The late Edith Dawson left £68,679 to Cancer Relief, one of the many charities she chose to support with her generous bequests. 

Cancer Relief, which provides essential clinical and holistic care services to those affected by cancer in Gibraltar, has been greatly bolstered by Edith’s generosity. 

Gráinne McKenna, CEO at Cancer Relief, shared her thoughts on the impact of this bequest, noting, “We knew that Edith was a hugely generous, determined, and charismatic woman, but we simply could not believe the news when we heard it. She has left a breathtaking legacy for all the charities she chose to support in this way. We are so humbled and grateful to be one of them and proud that she trusted us to honour her memory in this way.”

Cancer Relief requires over £500,000 annually to maintain its wide range of free services for cancer patients and their families. Edith’s donation, as Gráinne pointed out, will go a long way in alleviating the financial pressures the charity faces each year. “This donation will substantially ease the pressure on the charity, ensuring that we can continue to offer our services free of charge to those who rely on them,” she said.

Edith’s bequest will be used to support Cancer Relief’s many important services. These include specialised cancer nurse support, complementary therapies, group support days, hair loss services, physical therapy, counselling, equipment loans, financial assistance, and bereavement support. 

Edith herself had benefited from many of these services during her battle with cancer, making this donation particularly meaningful. “The funds will go directly towards continuing to provide the wide array of services that Edith appreciated, helping others in their own cancer journeys,” Gráinne explained.

Cancer Relief plays an integral role in the lives of around 500 individuals in Gibraltar each year, providing support not just to those diagnosed with cancer, but also to their loved ones. 

Gráinne emphasised the holistic approach of the charity, saying, “We are here for those affected by cancer every step of the way, from diagnosis, through treatment, recovery, and beyond. Our services help individuals live their lives well, despite the challenges they face, and are tailored to meet their specific needs.”

To commemorate Edith’s generous contribution, Cancer Relief plans to add her name to their newly created Legacy Commemoration Wall in the Centre’s Tranquillity Garden. “This will be a lasting tribute to Edith’s generosity, ensuring that her name and her legacy continue to inspire us for years to come,” Gráinne added.

The donation was presented to the Charity’s Chairperson, Marisa Desoiza in the presence of Gráinne McKenna and Treasurer and Trustee Geoff Harding. 

Marisa reminded that Cancer Relief is always looking for support from the community. Donations can be made via their website, and anyone wishing to learn more about the charity can visit www.cancerrelief.gi. 

Additionally, those affected by cancer who need someone to talk to can reach out via email or phone to access the charity’s services.

Volunteering is another vital way to support Cancer Relief. Gráinne encourages anyone interested to get involved. “We are always looking for enthusiastic people to join our amazing volunteering team. Our volunteers are the heart of Cancer Relief, and we could not operate without them,” she said. Anyone interested can email [email protected] to learn more about the available opportunities.