Islwyn’s MP, Chris Evans, met with Marie Curie ambassador and football star Chris Kamara at an event in Westminster on 20th March to celebrate the UK’s leading end of life Charity’s 38th Great Daffodil Appeal.
Chris Evans pledged his support for the appeal this March and is urging people in Islwyn and South Wales to donate and wear one of Marie Curie’s distinctive daffodil pin in any Superdrug store this March. The annual appeal helps Marie Curie continue its vital work.
The money raised helps Marie Curie to provide expert care and support to anyone with an illness they are likely to die from, and support those close to them, through one of the charity’s hospices, hospice care at home services, or their free information and support line.
Last year, Marie Curie provided direct expert end of life care and support to more than 44,200 people across the UK. By 2028, the charity aims to grow that number to 100,000.
Mr Evans said: “Everyone should receive the best possible end of life care, but too many people sadly miss out. That’s why I am so proud to be supporting Marie Curie on their mission.”
“The daffodil is a symbol both of Wales and this appeal, and I would urge people across Islwyn and South Wales to support the Great Daffodil Appeal through making a donation to allow them to continue their important work.
Ruth Driscoll, Associate Director of Policy and Public Affairs England at Marie Curie, said: “Right now, too many people are dying in pain, in poverty and alone. Services and staff are stretched to their limits, carers and families don’t know where to turn for help. We can’t let the crisis in end of life care continue. Over three million people will die during the next Parliament, leaving 16 million bereaved.
“Marie Curie is working hard to ensure that everyone has the best possible care at the end of their lives and we are delighted to have support from all political parties.
“Thank you to Chris for attending our event to meet our wonderful ambassador Chris and our staff who are so vital to the Great Daffodil Appeal every year. Supporters like you are so important in raising awareness of our vital work.”
Chris Kamara, who became a Marie Curie ambassador in 2010, after his mother Irene received care from the charity before she died, said: “As a long-time ambassador of Marie Curie, I have seen first-hand the great work they do to support people at the end of life.
“Marie Curie supported my dear mum in 2003, and I’ll always be grateful for their care and expertise in her time of need.
“The work Marie Curie do is needed now more than ever, and the charity is determined that its care and support reaches everyone – whatever the illness. That’s why I’m urging everyone to show their support for the Great Daffodil Appeal in any way they can.”
Superdrug is the headline partner for the Great Daffodil Appeal in 2024. You can also pick up a daffodil pin in any Superdrug store this March and help ensure everyone gets expert care and support right to the end. For information and to donate, please visit: Mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil
