Oakland International colleagues at its Knottingley depot have raised £940 and counting for Prostate Cancer UK after coming together to support a team member undergoing treatment for the disease.
Organised by Compliance Team Leader Lyndsay Wright, the two-day ‘Dress Silly for Workday’ fundraiser saw employees swap their usual workwear for bright, funny, and outrageous outfits, with additional donations still to be counted from on-site collection tins.
The initiative was inspired by one of Oakland’s Reach Truck Drivers, Wayne Horbury, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year.
Showing remarkable determination throughout his treatment, he completed five sessions of radiotherapy before recently ringing the bell at St James’s Hospital, Leeds, marking the end of his treatment. While now cancer-free, he continues to attend regular check-ups and manage the ongoing effects of treatment.
Wanting to show their support and raise awareness of a disease that affects thousands of families every year, Lyndsay organised the fundraiser, which has already brought the team close to its £1,000 target.
Lyndsay Wright commented: “When one of our colleagues received his diagnosis, everyone wanted to do something to show their support. The idea behind ‘Dress Silly for Workday’ was simple, to bring people together, raise some smiles, and raise money for a cause that means a great deal to us.
“The response has been fantastic. Seeing so many people get involved, have fun, and support both our colleague and Prostate Cancer UK has been incredibly rewarding. We’re proud to be standing alongside him as he continues his recovery journey.”
As well as fundraising, the event highlighted the importance of early detection. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with one in eight men diagnosed during their lifetime. Because the disease can develop without symptoms, particularly in its early stages, understanding the risks and seeking appropriate medical advice can play a vital role in early diagnosis and successful treatment.
Oakland International Site General Manager Wincenty Pancerz added: “Lyndsay’s efforts are a wonderful example of the care and compassion shown by our team. Oakland International has always been about supporting one another, and this fundraiser demonstrates the strength of that culture. We are immensely proud of everyone who took part and of the support shown to our colleague and his family.”
With donations continuing to come in, the Knottingley team hopes to surpass its initial £1,000 fundraising target while helping to raise greater awareness of prostate cancer and the benefits of early detection.
To support their fundraising effort please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/oaklandinternationalprostatecanceruk?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL
