UCF launch 'Forget Me Not' tribute funds

The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) recently unveiled a new initiative in Northern Ireland – Forget Me Not tribute funds.

The Forget Me Not funds are a way to celebrate life whilst making a difference. Some people may choose to set up a fund in honour of a friend or loved one who has passed away, whilst others will set up a fund to celebrate surviving cancer. Family, friends and work colleagues can all support the funds - in any way that is right for them.

UCF is undestood to be the first charity in Northern Ireland to introduce this special way of giving, although the concept is well known in the UK and United States.

Joyce Savage, Head of Appeals & Marketing at UCF said: "It’s a very natural response to pay tribute to and remember our loved ones. Many of our supporters have told us that they want to support UCF in the name of their loved one, as a positive way to keep their spirit alive and as a thank you for support and care services they have received from us.

“The Forget Me Not funds are a way to celebrate a life whilst making a difference. Family, friends and work colleagues can all support the funds - in any way that is right for them. Some people may decide to make regular gifts by standing order, to make donations on special occasions or on a significant date, like a birthday or anniversary. Others may choose to participate in sponsored events like treks or runs. We will provide ideas to help inspire your fundraising efforts and cards to give to friends and family to promote your Forget Me Not fund.

"Each year 8,700 people are newly diagnosed with cancer in Northern Ireland. UCF offer support, practical help and advice to cope with the implications of a diagnosis of cancer. In addition we have spent £10m on cancer research, which has seen improved treatments and also increased survival rates. We are committed to continuing our support for people living with cancer in Northern Ireland and your Forget Me Not fund can change the lives of people in our community today and for generations in the future."

Adrian Stewart set up the Rosie Stewart Forget Me Not fund in memory of his wife who died at the age of 33 - less than six months after they married.

He said: “Rosie was so full of life that even after she was diagnosed with cancer it didn’t seem possible that she wouldn’t make a full recovery. Rosie had organised many fundraising events for charity as she felt that she had a duty to help others less fortunate. Setting up the Rosie Stewart Forget Me Not fund gives me the chance to continue Rosie’s work by making a donation in her memory at any time - I know Rosie would be delighted by the idea.”

Joan Carson, MLA was devastated when her only daughter Janet died from breast cancer last year. Joan said: “Janet was much loved as a daughter, grand-daughter, wife and mother of two girls. Even though Janet sadly lost her battle against cancer, I want others to benefit by raising money for UCF in Janet’s name. I’ve raised money for her fund by holding an art exhibition and I think it’s a great way to remember Janet.”

For further information or to receive a Forget Me Not fund information pack please call Deborah McWhirter on 028 9049 2007 or info@forgetmenotfunds.org

(SP/CL)