Ken and Avril Graham from Ballinamallard are making a very special wish this Christmas in support of local charity, Friends of the Cancer Centre.

The couple are calling on people County Fermanagh, and across Northern Ireland, to show their support for Friends of the Cancer Centre’s Wish Upon a Star appeal. For a donation of £10 people can share their wish, message or name of a loved one on a beautiful gold star and see it shine bright on the charity’s virtual Christmas tree.

To keep your special wish close at this time of year, the charity can also send you your very own star for your tree at home. Money raised from the Wish Upon A Star appeal will go on to support Friends of the Cancer Centre’s vital work, which makes an impact on cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland.

Commenting on why she is proud to support the appeal, Avril said: “Friends of the Cancer Centre is such an incredible charity that really makes a difference to those who are affected by cancer. I have been involved in supporting the charity by raising funds and awareness in the local area for over 35 years. The support Friends of the Cancer Centre provides is vital to so many families from County Fermanagh.

"For example, since the Covid-19 pandemic, the charity has given out over £8,000 in financial grants to more than 30 local families. These have helped families in a range of ways, such as helping with fuel costs for travel to Belfast or Derry/Londonderry for treatment, home heating, household bills and educational support.

“Over the years myself, along with the local fundraising group, have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds to support the charity’s work. This Christmas, I’m proud to support its Wish Upon a Star appeal. My star will be dedicated to the charity and team at the Cancer Centre who are making a difference every day.”

Friends of the Cancer Centre relies entirely on the generosity of the local community and all money donated stays in Northern Ireland, directly benefitting patients and their families.

Ana Wilkinson, Head of Fundraising at Friends of the Cancer Centre, is calling on people to show their support by dedicating a star on the charity’s virtual Christmas tree. She said:“Christmas can be a really special time for so many people, but it can also be a difficult time for families who have been impacted by cancer. That’s why our Wish Upon A Star appeal is so special. It’s a wonderful way to say thank you to those who have cared for us and our loved ones, or remember someone special who is no longer with us. All money raised from our appeal will be used to support the life-saving and life-changing work and each star will be cherished as it will represent something, or someone, very special.”

To Wish Upon a Star please visit www.friendsofthecancercentre.com or call the team on 028 9069 9393