Hopes to make a lasting difference for cancer patients

Published: Monday, 23 September 2024

A courageous 21 years old from Derbyshire, Hannah Roberts, is using her personal battle with cancer as a driving force to make a lasting difference for teens facing similar challenges.

Diagnosed with Glioblastoma (GBM4), a life-limiting cancer, at just 19, Hannah has vowed to create a sanctuary for young cancer patients in one of the Midlands’ most picturesque locations, Mercia Marina.

MerciaCancerPatientHopes to raise £203,000

Through her charity initiative, ‘Hannah's Hope,’ Hannah aims to raise £203,000 to purchase a lodge at the marina, which will provide much-needed respite for teenagers and young adults under the care of the Teenage Cancer Trust. (Photos courtesy of BBC Radio Derby and Gail Iredale.)'

With £106,000 already raised, Hannah, her mother Gail Iredale, and stepfather Wayne recently launched a boutique charity shop and fundraising HQ at the marina to help reach their goal.

Inspired by a similar charity initiative that provided holiday lodges for families in need, Hannah is determined to offer a comforting retreat for teenagers with cancer. Her relentless fundraising efforts have now been recognised with a prestigious accolade: Hannah was named the winner in the Fundraiser category at the BBC Radio Derby Make a Difference Awards.

Honours individuals

The award, which honours individuals or groups who go above and beyond to raise funds for good causes, was presented during a star-studded ceremony at Pride Park that included the likes of Tony Robinson known for his portrayal of Baldrick in British sitcom Blackadder.

Hannah’s mother, Gail, shared her emotional reaction to the award:

"I was so overwhelmed. I dropped my phone in disbelief when Hannah won. It was a euphoric moment, and I couldn’t be prouder. This award is a well-deserved recognition of all that Hannah is doing to support others like her. The success of our charity shop at Mercia Marina will only grow from here, as more people are drawn to support this incredible cause."

Hannah's Hope Fundraising HQ at Mercia Marina continues to thrive, offering high-quality donated items to raise funds for the lodge project. With the momentum of this award, Hannah and her family are optimistic that they’ll soon reach their goal.