Julian Knight MP joined actor Stephen Mangan, who has appeared in Episodes, Alan Partridge, and Green Wing, in Parliament last week for the launch of the Great Daffodil Appeal. This new campaign from Marie Curie aims to help the charity provide more support and care to people with terminal illnesses.
Both were joined by Patricia McDonnell, one of Marie Curie’s Rapid Response Healthcare Assistants, to mark the start of this year’s annual fundraising campaign.
Launched in 1986, the Appeal is crucial in raising much-needed funds to enable the charity to continue to provide nursing and hospice care, fund research and campaign on behalf of everyone affected by terminal illness.
In 2013, Julian marked the opening of Solihull’s Marie Curie hospice by doing a sponsored cycle ride from there to the original hospice in London in a single day, raising over £1,000.
The charity's free national Support Line now also offers clinical support, enabling anyone with a terminal illness to access a Marie Curie Nurse. The Information and Support Nurses can answer any clinical questions or concerns people may have, from understanding a diagnosis to explaining treatments, or talking about painful and distressing symptoms.
Speaking after the event, Julian Knight said:
“Marie Curie do so much amazing work caring for people at the end of their lives, but too many people still die without receiving the support they need. The Great Daffodil Appeal will help raise vital funds to support people suffering from conditions such as terminal cancer, dementia, heart failure, and motor neurone disease, and I’m glad to show my support.”
Actor Stephen Mangan added:
“I experienced first-hand the difference they make when they cared for both my mum and later, my dad at home.
“Chances are, we all know someone who’s been affected by a terminal illness. That’s why I’m delighted to be here with Julian to help launch Marie Curie’s annual Great Daffodil Appeal.
“Whether its worn in celebration, in solidarity or in memory of a loved one, by donating and wearing a daffodil pin during March, you and thousands of others in Solihull will help make sure thousands more dying people get the care and support they deserve."
