Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan Cancer Support is one of the largest British charities and provides specialist health care, information and financial support to people affected by cancer.

As well as helping with the medical needs of people affected by cancer, Macmillan also looks at the social, emotional and practical impact cancer can have.

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The Charity

The charity was founded, as the Society for the Prevention and Relief of Cancer, in 1911 by Douglas Macmillan following the death of his father from the disease. In 1924 the name was changed to the National Society for Cancer Relief, which it retained until 1989 when it was changed to Cancer Relief Macmillan Fund, later changed again to Macmillan Cancer Relief. From 5th April 2006 Macmillan Cancer Relief became known as Macmillan Cancer Support as this more accurately reflects its role in supporting people living with cancer. It has adopted the principles of being a 'source of support' and a 'force for change'.

Macmillan raises approximately £90m per annum and offers a wide range of fundraising activities, for example the World's Biggest Coffee Morning is held in September each year and raises over £6m.

Macmillan Nurses

These nurses are present in many large UK hospitals. Typically, the posts are initially funded by Macmillan to provide palliative care and support for cancer patients in these hospitals. However, after the initial period (usually about three years) most are then funded by the hospital trusts themselves, but the title is often kept to help identify their special role.

Events

Macmillan 4x4 UK Challenge

References

• Macmillan Cancer Support website
• Macmillan Nurse fact sheet