Thousands raised for cancer support to Muslim community

Thousands of pounds was made during a special Eid event to raise awareness about the cancer support available to Oldham’s Muslim communities. The event organised by Maggie's Oldham saw saw £4,000 donated to help people living with cancer, as well as family and friends, in Greater Manchester.

More than 200 people took part in the celebrations which took place at The Palm Suite, in Chadderton, on Wednesday (April 17).

The occasion was the brainchild of Maggie’s, charity board member Muzahid Khan DL and Kashif Ashraf, Oldham president of the GM chamber of commerce. Muzahid wanted to put on the event to engage the Muslim community in the area with the services on offer at Maggie’s, while also acknowledging the barriers people may face when talking about cancer.

Read more: Tragedy of mum who died in Turkey after weight loss surgery she 'so desperately wanted and needed'

He was inspired to become involved with helping cancer charities himself after a family member was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Muzahid said: “I am so excited that finally we have organised an Eid celebration event after 30 days of fasting during Ramadan to raise money for Maggie’s Oldham. More importantly, tonight’s event was to raise the profile and awareness of Maggie’s, amongst South Asian communities in particular, here in Oldham.

“We know that Maggie’s is for all communities, however we want to ensure all communication reaches all the diversity of our population.”

Those attending were treated to delicious food, entertainment, a raffle and a live auction with top prizes. Frank Rothwell, owner of Oldham Athletic and Tameside’s first Muslim Mayor, Councillor Tafheen Sharif, were among the guests.

Guests at the event also heard from people living with cancer who have been supported by Maggie’s Oldham. People like Numan Ahmed and Stephanie Zulaykha Ekhart described how support had helped them cope with their cancer diagnosis.

Numan, who is also the Muslim Chaplain at Royal Oldham Hospital, said: “The Maggie’s Oldham building view gives hope to people with cancer, and when I looked at the view when I was taken ill I would get comfort. It gave me hope and confidence, and after my cancer diagnosis I have been able to support cancer patients with empathy.

“They welcome you in such a manner that you feel like you are a king in the building. If you can support and help Maggie’s with prayers and finances then this centre will grow more and more.”

Laura Tomlinson, centre fundraising manager, at Maggie’s Oldham, said: “We have been wanting to organise an Eid event for a long time and we are so grateful to Muzahid and Kashif for making this a possibility. We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended on the night for their wonderful generosity. The majority of our funding comes from voluntary donations and the amount raised will help Maggie’s continue to offer expert cancer care and support to our local community.

“Maggie’s is open to anyone and everyone, with support given by experts in an inclusive, safe and non-judgemental environment. Whatever kind of cancer and whatever stage you are at, we’re here with you.”