The George Eliot Hospital Charity has extended heartfelt thanks to former Nuneaton and Bedworth Mayor, Councillor Bill Hancox, for selecting the charity as the beneficiary of his civic appeal, which has raised £46,439.88 in support of the hospital’s Breast Care Unit.
Launched in July 2024, the 10-month campaign focused on raising both funds and awareness for breast cancer – a disease that affects both women and men – and the vital services provided by the Breast Care Unit at George Eliot NHS Hospital. The appeal highlighted the compassionate, expert clinical and emotional support offered to patients at every stage of their breast cancer journey.
Cllr Hancox, alongside the Mayoress, Alderwoman Sheila Hancox, worked closely with the Breast Care Unit and George Eliot Hospital Charity to champion their cause and promote the outstanding work being done in the current premises.
Funds raised through the appeal will contribute significantly to the development of a new, larger Breast Care Unit on the hospital site. The expanded facility will allow for greater patient capacity and improved care. Thanks in part to the increased awareness generated during the appeal, the number of patients accessing the unit has already doubled.
Both Cllr Hancox and Alderwoman Hancox will continue to support the hospital’s ambitions as proud ambassadors for the project.
Reflecting on the community’s generosity, Cllr Hancox said:
“The support we’ve received from the community has been truly incredible. While it’s impossible to thank everyone individually, I’m especially grateful to those who helped organise events such as the Mount Toubkal Trek and the fundraising evenings.
“I must also thank my wife and Mayoress, Sheila, for her tireless support and fundraising efforts, including her popular fundraising teas at Bedworth Cricket Club.”
Claire Nutting, Breast Clinical Nurse Specialist at George Eliot Hospital praised the Mayor and Mayoress for their exceptional dedication:
“We are incredibly grateful to Councillor Hancox and Alderwoman Hancox for their unwavering support. Their commitment has not only raised an amazing amount of money but also helped raise awareness of breast cancer across our community. Their kindness and advocacy have made a real difference to our team and the patients we care for.”
Throughout the appeal, the Mayor’s Parlour welcomed numerous community groups who made generous donations, further demonstrating the public’s strong support for the Breast Care Unit and its future development.
