Celebrating a year of outstanding community support and impact

Ducks and Drakes Cancer Trust marks the end of 2024 with remarkable achievements in supporting cancer patients across Dorset, thanks to unprecedented community backing and successful fundraising initiatives.
 
The Trust has distributed significant funding to key healthcare organisations, including a £5,000 donation to Dorset County Hospital Charity, pushing their total hospital support beyond £200,000. Additional major contributions include £8,750 to Mosaic for vital family support services, £5,000 to Fortuneswell Cancer Trust for reflexology services, and £5,000 to Weldmar Hospice for implementing an innovative IT system that ensure safety, efficiency and cost effectiveness in prescribing medicines.
 
"Without the support of the local community, we could not continue to help make a difference to so many cancer patients in Dorset," says Annette Drake, co-founder of Ducks and Drakes Cancer Trust. "We thank you for your support."
 
Notable fundraising achievements in 2024 included:

• NFU's generous donation of £6,509
• Puddletown RFC raising £3,078 for specialist equipment
• Stags Estate Agents including the Trust as one of four beneficiaries in their £60,000 fundraising campaign
• Dorchester Town FC's renewed lottery support

 
A particularly touching contribution came from fundraisers Tash and Becky, who covered 140 miles - one running, one cycling - over 40 days, raising £2,030 in memory of their friend Amy, who received support from the Trust during her battle with bowel cancer.
 
The impact of these donations has been profound. At Weldmar Hospice, where Ducks and Drakes has contributed £43,757 over the years, the latest donation supports a new Electronic Prescription and Medicine Administration system, enhancing patient care efficiency.
 
Wayne Butcher, head of funding at Mosaic, acknowledged the Trust's ongoing support: "Mosaic is extremely grateful for the very generous donation from Ducks & Drakes. This funding will help us to continue our essential support in Dorset for children, young people and their families."
 
"As a volunteer-run organisation, we ensure that donations like this go directly to supporting patient care." Said Marjorie Brewer, Joint Honorary Secretary at Fortuneswell Cancer Trust.
 
Simon Pearson, Head of Charity at Dorset County Hospital, expressed his gratitude: "Our heartfelt thanks to all at Ducks and Drakes Cancer Trust for their extraordinary support. This wonderful donation takes the total they have donated in support of Dorset County Hospital to over £200,000!"