There are lots of fun ways to raise money and help us provide littlelifts boxes to people with breast cancer. Whether it’s hosting a tea party, running a marathon or even jumping out of a plane, we’d love to help you with your fundraising ideas.
You can set up your own fundraising profile on Enthuse or by dropping us an email at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you and support you in your efforts.
Here are some of the fantastic ways that people have raised money for littlelifts. What would you like to do?
On July 4th 2021 Rachael took on a half iron man in North Norfolk to raise funds for littlelifts after her twin sister received a littlelifts box in January 2020. She has raised an incredible £916.
“Last January 2020 my twin sister, Victoria, had a shock diagnosis of triple negative aggressive breast cancer and having treatment during a global pandemic added extra worry. During her treatment, Victoria had the added worry of the virus, this made it harder for us as a family as we couldn’t see her, but also for her not being able to see friends. Victoria remained strong taking each day as it came.
I remember the joy she had after each chemotherapy session to be presented with her littlelifts box. The combination of treats and really useful things were her topic of the day and it gave her something really positive things to talk about after each gruelling experience. Because the treatment was all happening so quickly the items in the box were perfect as she hadn’t managed to get prepared for everything she would need in advance. I remember the joy these boxes gave her and me as it was something exciting to talk about so who better than to raise money for the amazing charity that is small and perfectly formed and so thoughtful. My event needed to be a real challenge to put me totally out of my comfort zone.. and I’m sure you will agree an endurance triathlon is definitely that.
I’ve been really impressed with littlelifts during the fundraising. It’s obvious that they really care and appreciate the effort we are putting in to raise funds. And the goodie bags and encouragement are so welcome.”
Amy took on the London Marathon in April 2017. Determined to help littlelifts, she asked people to sponsor her, held a ‘Guess my Finish Time’ competition with prizes donated by local businesses, and asked people to sponsor a specific mile and pick a song to accompany it. Raising a total of £1,765, Amy not only smashed her fundraising target of £500, but also her expected time by 45 minutes.
“I’ve known Oa, the Founder of littlelifts, for many years and so have been there and followed her experiences with breast cancer and the subsequent journey to establish littlelifts. I never fail to be inspired by what the charity both aspires to and achieves, and look to support it whenever I can.
Although the marathon was a lifelong ambition, it still represented significant sacrifice, commitment and effort in order to get me to the stage where I could do it, I had to juggle life with a baby, Type 1 Diabetes, and everything else with the challenging training throughout a long, dark, cold winter. I therefore hoped that people would want to recognise my endeavours and support littlelifts in recognition of that.
The day of the marathon was fantastic, I can honestly say that, regardless of how difficult it was at points, I enjoyed every minute. I was very proud to be running in my littlelifts top, and hearing the crowd shout ‘Go littlelifts’ at me at regular intervals spurred me on so much.”
Former competitive boxer Pat was moved to organise a charity boxing match in aid of littlelifts, after his mother’s battle with breast cancer. Inspired by his mother’s bravery and determination, Pat wanted to help other women diagnosed with breast cancer. After three months of training and plenty of behind-the-scenes activity organising the event, Pat came out on top, winning the fight and raising a punchy £420 for littlelifts.
“I vividly remember feeling numb when I heard my Mum’s diagnosis. I couldn’t contemplate it. Cancer is something that happens to other people, not my Mum! The feeling of relief and elation after we found out that the cancer was in remission was indescribable.
“I wanted to take on a challenge, that would help other women going through what my Mum went through, which gave me the idea of taking part in a charity boxing match. The fight was brilliant and I thoroughly enjoyed it, and to top it all off I came away with a unanimous points win! With ticket sales and donations, we raised an amazing £420 for littlelifts.
“What we achieved, we did as a team. I would urge anyone out there to get involved with this amazing cause, because I can truly say it is an honour and privilege to be a part of the littlelifts community.”
Bryony was devasted when her mum was diagnosed with breast cancer and found her treatment brutal and heartbreaking to witness. While working at a spa, Bryony met littlelifts founder Oa, who happened to be having her nails done. This chance encounter inspired Bryony to organise a Glitz and Glamour Ball at the Assembly House in Norwich, where 130 guests enjoyed a three course meal, raffle, auction and entertainment. The event raised £2,894, beating Bryony’s target of £2,000.
“Watching someone you love fight cancer definitely changes your outlook on life. As soon as Oa told me what littlelifts was about, I knew I wanted to help raise funds. How could you not? At the beginning of October 2018, I hosted a Glitz and Glamour Ball. Everyone had a brilliant night and we managed to raise £2,894, beating my target of £2,000.
“It’s definitely made me want to carry on raising money for such a warm, appreciative local charity. I love everything about littlelifts and I will continue to think of ways of fundraising and spreading awareness!”
Harps gave up his time to DJ at a littlelifts fundraising event, the Hoopathon – a fun session of music and hula-hooping! As Oa’s Personal Trainer, Harps got chatting to her about littlelifts and was spurred on by her passion to help others.
“As soon as I was asked to DJ, I was thrilled to help this amazing charity. The Hoopathon was a great way to bring people together and for people who have been through similar experiences to meet. I enjoyed volunteering as a DJ and most of all I enjoyed seeing everyone excited throughout the event. I’m looking forward to future events!”
Clare passionately wanted to help littlelifts – after all her good friend Oa founded the charity and husband Adam is a trustee. Clare was determined to raise money and, despite once hating running, she challenged herself to run the Norwich Half Marathon. Perhaps the biggest challenge, however, was that she was pregnant during training. But with careful exercise and advice from her midwife, she carried on, eventually raising over £500.
In May 2017, Grant, Greg and Dickie took on the Slateman Triathlon in Snowdonia National Park. This gruelling half iron distance was a first for them all, consisting of a 1km open water swim, 51km road cycle and 11km trial run, certainly not a challenge for the fainthearted! Hours and hours were dedicated to training, but the guys never gave up. The event itself was tough, but they did it, finishing with tired smiles on their faces raising over £2700.
