Local MP encouraging school children to learn about cancer

2.41.33pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 6th Dec 2006

Mark is backing Macmillan's campaign

Mark Hunter is supporting schools in Cheadle constituency who take part in Macmilan Cancer Support's eleventh annual sponsored silence, The Big Hush, which is taking place on Friday 26th January to mark the end of Cancertalk Week.

Cancertalk Week aims to get young people talking and learning more about cancer in schools. By getting involved in lessons and activities during the week and taking part in a story writing competition, children can increase their awareness of the disease and help reduce the fear surrounding cancer. Money raised by children taking part in the big hush will go directly to Macmillan who provide the practical, medical, financial and emotional support which makes a real difference to people living with cancer.

Mark said, "I hope as many schools as possible in our area to take part in the Big Hush as part of Cancertalk Week. I think it is great way of drawing attention to an important issue which has touched the lives of so many local people."

Macmillan already helps young people directly - they recently launched Youthline which offers cancer information and support to 12 to 21 year olds who are affected by cancer, whether the caller is a patient, family member or friend. It also provides help to adults wanting to help young people affected by cancer. Telephone: 0808 808 0800, Mon-Fri, 9am-10pm or e-mail youthline@macmillan.org.uk; or log on to www.macmillan.org.uk.

To order a Cancertalk pack or for more information on the Big Hush, call 0845 6011716 or log on to www.macmillan.org.uk/schools.