Thursday 31st May 2012
The ACLT were today delighted to welcome representatives of Novartis Oncology UK to our Croydon offices to celebrate the handing over of fifteen bicycles to young patients and relatives of those with a blood cancer or blood disorder.
The bikes, which had been built as part of a teambuilding exercise by Novartis Oncology UK's employees in April, were donated to the ACLT in the hope that some of the most deserving young people could enjoy the benefit of the gift of a bike and are either receiving a treatment regime, such chemotherapy, themselves or are the child of a parent or loved one who is receiving care.
Beverley De-Gale OBE, Co-Founder of the ACLT commenting on the donation of the bikes said: "This generous offer by Novartis Oncology UK will brighten up fifteen young people's days. For some who have been on treatment themselves and for others who are children of loved ones with a blood cancer or blood disorder, life can be very tough indeed."
"Luxuries such as bikes are not able to be enjoyed either because of the physical demands of undergoing treatment or because of the financial pressures that families can find themselves under when being treated for cancer or a long-term condition. This act of kindness by strangers will make a positive difference and we're grateful that organisations such as Novartis Oncology UK are working with the ACLT and others like us, to make sure that patient's needs are put first".
The bikes have been donated to ACLT members throughout the UK. Those who were not able to be a part of the formal handover today have received their bike at their home addresses. ACLT is an organisation which provides bespoke care and support to families throughout the UK in coming to terms with a blood cancer or blood disorder diagnosis. This frontline support is considered by many families to provide vital support at a time of great need.
Panos Alexakos, General Manager of Novartis Oncology UK and Ireland said "It is truly inspirational to see the work that ACLT undertakes with patients, families and care givers to help to create a positive change in their lives.
The work of Beverley, Orin and the whole ACLT Team makes a huge difference to individuals and their families. ACLT's quest to find donors and treatment solutions for patients, provides a lesson to us all, that each patient deserves access to care and medicines which can offer the gift of life.
Charlotte Dawkins of Novartis said "we are delighted that our small gesture will bring some much needed relief to fifteen individuals for whom life has been challenging. I know that each of the bikes has found a very deserving recipient and it was our genuine pleasure to be able to give something back to the community."
