Help Give Maggie's Centre a Giant Hug

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Cancer Caring Centre celebrates Love Maggie Day

Celebrity supporters, staff and local volunteers will join hands at Maggie's Centre at noon on Friday March 26 to give the famous red building a giant hug.

It's all part the Love Maggie's Day, which will run from 10.30am and will feature a range of free taster sessions including tai chi, yoga, relaxation exercises, art therapy and nutritional advice.

Maggie's patron, broadcaster Janet Ellis will join Richard Rogers and his wife Ruth, co-founder of the River Cafe in the giant hug. For Ruth, this is bound to be a piognant moment she her co-founder Rose Gray died of cancer on February 28.

Janet will also be baking and sharing cupcakes with the able assistance of daughter Martha, who she says describes as "cupcake queen".

Janet says: " I lost my mum, close family members, and my very dear friend Caron Keating, to cancer. Over the last few years I have enjoyed helping Maggie's by reading at the Maggie's Christmas Service, taking part in the London Night Hike and by helping to raise awareness for the cause on the TV and Radio.

" Maggie's Centres give out a lot of love, care, hope and support to people living with cancer and Love Maggie's Day is a perfect day to give some love back."

Maggie's, by Charing Cross Hospital in Fulham Palace Road hopes to raise £100,000 on Love Maggie's Day. Says Bernie Byrnes, Maggie’s London Centre Head: " “A wonderful aspect which I have found while working at Maggie’s London is that the local community have a strong feeling of ownership for their Maggie’s Centre – many hold a strong sense of pride for our beautiful little building which brings hope to so many.

"The inaugural Love Maggie’s Day will provide a great opportunity for you to celebrate your local Maggie’s London and for us to thank you in return."

Bernie adds: "We will be throwing open our doors to the public, inviting all in to see our stunning Centre and hear about all that we do. Pop along, have a cup of tea and witness firsthand the warmth, positivity and hopefulness that the Centre brings to your community. The kettle will be on all day and feel free to join in with the Centre hug at noon!"

March 24, 2010