After their friend was diagnosed with lung cancer, two Manx businesses joined forces to show support and raise money to help others affected by the disease.
Grant Thornton, a leading accounting firm, and Pringle Law, a multi-disciplined legal practice, combined to organise and sponsor a charity golf day for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation Isle of Man on the 19th July 2019.
Heather Christian, close friend of Dennis McGurgan and Pamela Pringle (of Grant Thornton and Pringle Law) was diagnosed in her early 50s with stage 4 lung cancer. Heather, who is godmother to Pamela’s son, Cameron, is now determined to raise awareness that the disease can affect anyone.
As a patient advocate for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, Heather was delighted when the event developed to become the launch of the charity’s Isle of Man presence on the island.
“As a lung cancer patient myself I am really pleased that Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation now has a presence on the island, providing information, advice and support to patients, their families and loved ones, in addition to raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer and investing in much-needed research.”
The golf day saw 19 teams of four compete in a shotgun start at Douglas Golf Club with the Deanwood Estate Agents team claiming the winning Heather Christian trophy. The wet weather did not dampen the spirits and a fantastic day was had by all teams, volunteers and guests. The day raised a truly incredible £6,000 which will be used to help and support those affected by lung cancer on the island, as well as funding vital research into the early detection of the disease.
Dennis McGurgan was grateful to all who took part in the magnificent event.
“It was a super day and we are really appreciative of all those who entered the competition, sponsored holes, provided raffle and auction prizes and helped at our inaugural event. There was a tremendous spirit throughout the day”
Pamela Pringle said: ‘We hope the Grant Thornton and Pringle Law charity golf day will become an annual event in the local golfing calendar, competing for the Heather Christian Trophy.’
Our founder and thoracic surgeon, Professor Ray Donnelly originally set up the lung cancer fund on the Isle of Man in 1991. Following discussions with lung cancer specialists and patients living on the Isle of Man, it became clear our support was needed and we are proud to now be a formally registered charity on the island. We have been inundated with support from residents and businesses on the island, with many donating raffle prizes and items for the auction at the golf day.
Thanks to Grant Thornton, Pringle Law, Heather Christian and all teams and sponsors who contributed to the inaugural golf day on Isle of Man in aid of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.
You can read more about Heather’s story as well as our work on the Isle of Man.