Thanks to Calsey for this latest news from the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. Our very best wishes go to Debbie for a continued recovery. Ed
Local youngster, Debbie Chessell (16) from Wootton, Isle of Wight was given the unique opportunity to join the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust last week, as the charity which takes young people in recovery from cancer sailing took a group to Essex for five days of outdoor activities, from 9 – 14 August.
Debbie, who attends Medina College, was joined by 46 other youngsters from around the country, all aged between 8 and 17, who have all previously sailed with The Trust whilst in recovery from cancer or other serious illness.
“It has changed my life”
Debbie was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in 1996, and was treated at St Mary’s Hospital and Southampton General. Debbie has sailed with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust several times before and she was looking forward to coming back.
Before the trip she said, ”It’s a fantastic experience sailing with the Trust, it has changed my life, made me more confident and given me great memories. I can’t wait to go again, I’ve become much happier with myself as a person and it’s a priceless experience”
Providing skills and confidence
The residential sailing courses at Bradwell Outdoors in Essex, enables the young people to gain Royal Yachting Association dinghy sailing qualifications, and gives them the skills and confidence to continue to develop their sailing.
They also try a variety of challenges and activities to help build skills and confidence, such as canoeing, facing fears on the high ropes, cycling, archery and kite flying.
Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust
The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is a charity that supports young people aged between 8-24 who are recovering from cancer and other serious illnesses. Launched in 2003 by Dame Ellen MacArthur, the Trust’s main activity is taking young people on four-day sailing trips to help them rebuild their confidence, giving the young people a chance to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment.
Dame Ellen MacArthur said, “These young people are truly amazing. They face experiences that no child should ever have to go through, and yet they do it with the biggest smile on their faces, they are truly inspiring”.
There are many ways you can support The Trust with your time, money or services. To become a Friend of the Trust and help them to continue to provide support and encouragement to young people in recovery from cancer see the Website.
