Life-size cardboard cut-out of cancer survivor helping raise awareness of the ongoing need for research

26th May 2018

On Friday 4th May, Gilbert Stephens Solicitors together with Cancer Research UK unveiled a life-size cardboard cut-out of a cancer survivor who is sharing her story to help raise awareness of the ongoing need for research.

Barbara McArthur was diagnosed with breast cancer eighteen years ago. With a long history of cancer in the family, she understands just how important cancer research is to the lives of so many.  Gilbert Stephens Solicitors are supporting her in this endeavour with the unveiling of her life-size image which has taken pride of place in their Budleigh Salterton window.

Barbara said: “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000. There’s been a lot of cancer in my family: my father and all four of his brothers died of cancer, but I was told there was no genetic link to mine. I had five surgeries, chemotherapy, and I also took part in a Cancer Research UK clinical trial. I survived because of the treatment which research made happen. My great niece has leukaemia but she’s surviving right now because of research. This is why I pledged a gift to Cancer Research UK.”

Cancer Research UK has partnered with solicitors nationwide to provide a will writing service that’s free to people, like Barbara, who are over 55 and want to write or update a simple will. Legacy gifts are vital to their research, forming around one third of their income.  You can take advantage of this service through Gilbert Stephens Solicitors, available in all six of their branches.

Commenting on the charity, Patrick Langrishe, a partner at the Budleigh Salterton branch of Gilbert Stephens Solicitors, stated that: “we have been a loyal supporter of this important cause over the years, and we are pleased to be able to support Cancer Research UK in this way”.

Barbara added: “I am helping beat cancer right now by leaving a gift in my will to Cancer Research UK. If you are thinking about making or updating your will, please contact our team to talk about how you can do the same”.

Barbara will be at a special event at Newton Abbot Racecourse on 13th June from 12.30 to 4pm.  An inspiring and fun event, supporters will hear about important research being carried out in Exeter and learn more about the research that has helped to double cancer survival in the last 40 years.  They can also chat with one of the cancer nurses, and meet other supporters and cancer survivors in an informal and friendly environment.   Free entry and lunch, but you need to book with Ros Fry on 01308 423805 or

 

 

In this photo from left to right are Gilbert Stephens staff with Barbara  Kate Wheeler, Patrick Langrishe, Barbara McArthur, Deborah Langham, Gazelle Hill