Fight4Life ball raises thousands for charity (From Watford Observer)

Fight4Life ball held in Hunton Bridge raises £6,300 for Cancer Research UK and Paul Strickland Scanner Centre

11:50am Thursday 6th October 2011 in News By Amie Mulderrig

Men and women across the county donned their glad rags on Friday night, for the Fight4Life charity ball in Hunton Bridge.

The event, held at Hunton Park Hotel, was organised by Kings Langley resident Carmela Cook and friend Ann Clark from Stanmore.

Mrs Cook and Mrs Clark are currently in remission following a long battle with cancer.

They decided to arrange the event to raise cash for the Paul Strickland Scanner Centre, based at Mount Vernon Hospital and Cancer Research UK.

Thanks to their efforts and all of those that attended the evening, so far £6,300 has been raised for the two causes.

Mrs Clark, 57, who was diagnosed with cancer two years ago, said that without the help of both charities, she would not have been around to witness her daughter’s wedding and the birth of her granddaughter.

She said: “I went to see doctors and was diagnosed with cancer at the back of my tongue.

“The Paul Strickland scanner picked up that I had the lump and essentially saved my life.

“It was a terrible time, my family took it really badly and I just felt shock. But following bouts of chemotheraphy, radiotherapy, and neck surgery, I’m in remission.

“I’m so pleased with the money we’ve raised for both charities, I think it’s been a great night for everyone.

“Thank you to Paul Strickland Scanner Centre and Cancer Research UK for all they’ve done for me."

Carmela Cook, 37, of The Limes, was diagnosed with small cell cancer of the ovary in January 2009.

She helped Mrs Clark organise the event after holding a charity ball herself in 2010.

Mrs Cook said: “You don’t think cancer will ever happen to you, but of course, it can.

“It’s so important to raise as much money as possible to support Cancer Research UK.

“It’s been a great night - here’s to next year’s ball”.

Guests at the event enjoyed a fun filled evening including live entertainment provided by Funkyfie, dancing, a raffle and a silent auction.