Salix Homes staff support cancer charity in memory of Salford mum

Budding bakers at Salix Homes have risen to the challenge to raise money for a cancer charity in memory of an inspirational Salford mum.

Staff organised a bake sale and raffle and raised £113 for Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust in honour of Natalie Pool, from Swinton, who tragically lost her battle with cervical cancer last summer.

Natalie, who was just 34 when she died, was posthumously nominated for a Salix Star Award, which is a community awards organised by Salix Homes to honour those making a difference in their community.

While Natalie didn’t win the award, staff at Salix Homes were keen to pay tribute to Natalie’s memory so organised the fundraiser during Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, which took place from January 25-31.

The event was the idea of Salix Homes marketing officer Sarah Mcnally, whose mum was also treated for cervical cancer.

Sarah, 29, from Didsbury, said: “We were delighted to support Cervical Cancer Prevention Week in honour of Natalie Pool and raise money and awareness for such a fantastic charity.

“Natalie was such an inspirational young woman who touched so many people’s hearts. Despite battling cancer herself she fought tirelessly to raise thousands of pounds for charity, so we were keen to do our bit in memory of Natalie.

“It’s a cause that is very close to my heart anyway after my mum had to undergo major surgery when doctors discovered pre-cancerous cells during a routine screening.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to all my colleagues at Salix Homes who took part in the bake sale and raffle and hopefully the money raised will go some way towards ensuring that lives can be saved.”

Shelley Hollorn, Natalie’s best friend of more than 30 years, added: “I nominated Natalie for the Salix Star Award, as during her illness she showed an amazing amount of courage and bravery and always kept a beautiful smile on her face. Although she didn’t win the award, I am so grateful for the money raised on behalf of Natalie as it’s a cause very close to our hearts.”

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer for women under the age of 35, yet it’s also one of the few cancers that can be prevented with regular screenings.

Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust is the only UK charity that supports women and their families affected by cervical cancer. To find out more about the charity go to www.jostrust.org.uk