24hr Clubathon raises funds for friend living with leukaemia
North West
Friends from Wallasey, on the Wirral, will host a special 24-hour Clubathon event on November 8-9, in support of one of their close-knit community Laura Parker, 35, who has an aggressive leukaemia, a form of blood cancer.
This dance fitness event will feature 24 clubbercise classes over 24 hours, with participants moving to everything from 90’s hits to contemporary dance tracks, with disco lighting, and glow sticks.
Three instructors, from Clubbercise with Becky and Sarah will take on the immersive dance experience where everyone can participate.
“The way Laura’s faced her cancer has touched all of us deeply” says Becky Biddulph, 34, who has been organising the event alongside her fellow Clubbercise instructors. “We were totally shocked when we heard about her diagnosis, I hadn’t known anyone at that age that had this type of blood cancer before. Seeing her face leukaemia with such strength and positivity has inspired everyone around her. She’s been always smiling and staying positive through everything. We want this event to show her that her community is here, standing right beside her.”
Laura was diagnosed with leukaemia at the start of the year. Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer that affects blood cells in your bone marrow – usually white blood cells.
I hadn’t known anyone at that age that had this type of blood cancer before. Seeing her face leukaemia with such strength and positivity has inspired everyone around her."
- Becky Biddulph, friend of Laura
After initially responding well to treatment, her condition worsened as the cancer began impacting her bones and spreading aggressively. Despite a series of setbacks, Laura remains positive, with her family and friends rallying behind her.
Becky said:
“We’re trying to do something truly extraordinary here, and while we want to push ourselves to while also supporting Laura and so many others affected by blood cancer. Clubbercise brings together a unique approach to fitness, combining dance and cardio moves in a welcoming, fun environment. We want people of all ages and fitness levels to come together, enjoy what they’re doing and support our friend.
The community-focussed 24-hour Clubbercise event will take place at The Soccerdome, Wirral who are donating the venue and over 60 local businesses contributing raffle prizes. Laura herself has helped with the event, helping to pay for family-friendly activities for a family funday on the Saturday. The Saturday fun day will provide a dedicated time for families, ensuring that everyone can participate in the day.
We’re truly moved by the strength of Laura’s community"
- Mairead Macleod, fundraising manager from Blood Cancer UK
The event’s fundraising for Blood Cancer UK will help fund life-saving research and support services. Mairead Macleod, fundraising manager from Blood Cancer UK said
“Blood cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UK, with over 41,000 people being diagnosed every year. We’re truly moved by the strength of Laura’s community; events like these not only raise crucial funds but also bring hope and show the power of community solidarity. Laura’s resilience and the support from her loved ones are an inspiration to us all.”
Everyone is encouraged to join, support, or donate with all donations going to Blood Cancer UK.
