We’re thrilled to announce that our annual Musicals Ball has raised an incredible £244,000 – a record-breaking total that will directly support cancer research and patient care across Cheshire and Merseyside.
The Rum Warehouse at Liverpool’s Titanic Hotel came alive as 450 supporters gathered for an unforgettable evening. Hosted by the wonderful Kym Marsh, the night featured show-stopping performances, including an opening routine by dance group Desi Nach and a moving finale from Liverpool music sensation Jamie Webster, who performed his anthem ‘This Place’ alongside a poignant montage of our patients, fundraisers and staff.
Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram joined fellow guests for what proved to be our most successful ball to date.
The evening’s most powerful moment came when we shared the inspiring story of Rob Schenck, a 28-year-old from Rainhill who represents exactly why this fundraising is so vital.
Diagnosed with aggressive testicular cancer at just 25, Rob’s future looked uncertain. But thanks to the groundbreaking research we’re funding – a £5 million commitment over five years – Rob was offered a place on a clinical trial at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.
Under the expert care of Professor Christian Ottensmeier, Rob received an experimental cancer vaccine treatment that has transformed his life. He’s returned to his studies for a new career and taken up exercise again.
“The clinical trial has offered me hope where often there isn’t any hope,” Rob told guests.
“This treatment is a game changer, and it is so important that this research is happening at Clatterbridge to help people like me.”
Rob and his wife Brogan, who married when his prognosis was poor, now face the future with renewed positivity. Their appearance at the ball moved everyone in the room, earning a standing ovation.
“We had such a wonderful night and want to thank everyone for being so generous so that other patients can benefit from the type of treatment Rob has had,” said Brogan.
Expert auctioneer Addison Gelpey guided bidders through an impressive array of prizes, from glamorous holidays and football hospitality to luxury shopping experiences and unique artwork. Generous pledges from supporters helped push the total to new heights, while Elements Girl Band kept everyone dancing late into the night.
Our Chief Executive, Katrina Bury shared: “Every year we are overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of our supporters who come to the ball, but this year we are completely blown away to reach almost a quarter of a million pounds.
Every raffle ticket bought, tombola prize won, auction bid and pledge made helped us reach this fantastic figure that will help people with cancer in Cheshire and Merseyside.”
The evening also saw us honour two remarkable supporters. Charity patrons Cathy Frost and Emma Rodgers each received the Chair’s Award for Outstanding Contribution, presented by Trustee Jordan Wright in recognition of their years of dedication.
Host Kym Marsh brought warmth and humour throughout the evening, making the night even more special. Her connection to our work is deeply personal – her late father Dave was treated at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.
“My dad was looked after by Clatterbridge, and he was keen for us to say thank you and tell everybody how brilliant they are,” Kym shared. “I was delighted to host the ball and help the Charity raise such an incredible amount of money. Those funds will help research into future treatments to help patients and that is so important.
“I loved meeting Rob and Brogan and being part of such a special night. Thank you to everyone who bought raffle tickets, bid for an auction prize or donated in some other way. You are really helping improve the lives of cancer patients and should be very proud.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this record-breaking night possible: our generous guests, our talented entertainers Jamie Webster, Elements Girl Band and Desi Nach, host Kym Marsh, auctioneer Addison Gelpey, and of course Rob and Brogan for sharing their powerful story.
Special thanks also to our sponsors: DELL Technologies and CDW, The Johnson Foundation, J&J Fire Engineering, A&B Engineering and ETC.
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who supported the event. Your generosity is funding the research and care that’s changing lives like Rob’s – offering hope where it’s needed most.
