Gold Geese’s 6th Birthday

A CHILDREN’S cancer charity based in Leigh is celebrating its 6th birthday this month by sharing the stories of families that have been part of its journey.

Since its launch in 2018, Gold Geese celebrates has helped over 100 local families affected by childhood cancer, increased awareness of signs and symptoms of childhood cancer and boosted local blood donation and stem cell registrations.

One person sharing their experience is Fatima, the mother of Ahmed Ali, from Westcliff.

Ahmed, 10, has been supported by Gold Geese since being diagnosed with T-cell lymphoma when he was seven.

His mother Fatima said: “Gold Geese have been a huge support to the whole family.

“They have been there to give all sorts of practical support to help with Ahmed’s journey, through treats for him and his sisters for when he is feeling low, pick me ups, celebrating milestones with us, quality time for the family and always being available for emotional support.

“One of the most memorable times out for the children was going to London Zoo on the Gold Geese train. The children still talk about the day so fondly now.

“Something like a day like that would not have been possible with how financially tight things become due to treatment, one parent having to give up work and the extra financial strain of going up to hospital and treatment.

“Gold Geese has been the calm in such a horrific storm. The waves have been huge and unpredictable, but each time one hits, Gold Geese have been there to support, guide and ride the wave with us.

“It can be a very scary lonely journey filled with so much fear and uncertainty and when you are feeling that blow and someone comes to hold your hand it has such an enormous impact.”

Katie Southgate, Founder and CEO of Gold Geese, added: “We originally started out as Hattie’s Heroes, which was a community rallying to support our own family’s childhood cancer journey.

“Six years ago, we launched the charity with the aim of supporting every local child affected by cancer and encouraging more people to recognise the signs and symptoms as they can be similar to other childhood illnesses.

“We’ve grown from strength to strength because of the incredible support of our local community, so we want to say a huge thank you to all our supporters and volunteers. You power us, so we can be there for families and we’re so grateful.”

You can donate to Gold Geese via its website: goldgeese.org or via text.

Text GOLD followed by the amount you wish to donate to 70580.

Picture: Ahmed Ali

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