Dear Sir,
My name is Sophie Foster, a Year 9 student at Woodham Academy. This year I am working with my friend to raise awareness of a number of charities, and to promote the ‘Text Santa’ campaign to raise as much money as possible for the brilliant charities it supports. It is an amazing appeal supporting Macmillan, Make-A-Wish and Save the Children.
The reason why I am so passionate about supporting Text Santa is because two years ago I was diagnosed with cancer (Leukaemia) and one of the charities that were there to help me was Clic Sargent who helped me and my family through the toughest two years we have ever had.
After becoming involved with the charity, we were invited down to London to watch ‘Text Santa’ live. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. We got to meet Ant and Dec, Paddy McGuiness and loads more celebrities. The night raised lots of money and although Clic Sargent aren’t involved, seeing the passion and effort put in to Text Santa I decided I really want to help this year.
Another charity which is very close to my heart is ‘Make A Wish’. This fantastic charity arranged for me to meet One Direction! I could not believe that one charity could do such an amazing thing. They don’t have a massive amount of money so can only grant some wishes but I will be forever grateful for what they did for me.
One final charity that we would have been really lost without, is Macmillan. The nurses at Macmillan didn’t help me but they helped my Mum and my Nanna care for my Grandad when he had cancer. My whole family really appreciated everything they did for us.
Throughout my treatment there was one person who helped me so much and kept me going and this was my friend Emily.
When I had to be strong for my family or just didn’t want to be brave anymore, Emily was there for me to cry on. I couldn’t wish for a better friend. She has seen me at my worst – when I had no hair and at my best – how I am now.
There were times when I’d be at school, wearing my wig and would feel too hot. Emily and I would go and sit in another room and I’d let her see me without my wig. She’s the only person apart from my family that got to see me like that. I am so grateful she has never left my side.
On May 14th this year I won the battle, I beat cancer!! When the doctors told me I was cancer free I couldn’t believe it, I couldn’t have been happier. My treatment will continue, including having regular check-ups and medication but not having to go through anymore chemotherapy anymore is a huge relief.
Going through cancer and realising how much the support from all these charities is needed, inspired me and that’s why for this year’s Text Santa, Emily and I organised the whole school to take part by coming to school in non-school uniform or Christmas jumpers on the last day of term. We also held a Cake Bake Sale over lunchtime, which everyone loved.
I hope this raised awareness of these important charities and how fantastic they are. Thanks for everyone who supported me through my treatment and to everyone who took part in our fundraising.
Sophie.
