Despite the touch and go Liverpool weather, nothing could dampen the spirits at our recent MABC Afternoon Tea, where supporters, researchers, and friends came together for a joyous afternoon in aid of blood cancer patients.
Guests were welcomed with a glass of prosecco and treated to a delicious spread of sandwiches and scones — topped with generous helpings of jam and the most delicious clotted cream. The room buzzed with laughter, meaningful conversations, and a shared sense of purpose.
The event was brilliantly (and hilariously) hosted by BBC Radio Merseyside legend and MABC Patron, Roger Phillips, who brought humour and charm — even if he was a little puzzled by some of the raffle prizes. (“A Sanctuary Spa set? You mean we’re not giving away a full spa day?”)
We held another exciting raffle for a beautiful £600 necklace, this DMR Cloud Nine Silver 0.18cts Cut Diamond Pendant was generously donated by David M Robinson and helped us tremendously in raising additional funds!
And between the laughter, there was real inspiration.
Abigail Clarke, a PhD student whose pioneering research is co-funded by MABC and North West Cancer Research, shared her incredible lab work cutting and analysing genes to better understand patient outcomes.
Professor Nagesh Kalakonda, MABC’s founder, offered insights into his vital research using NHS data to explore the impact of COVID-19 on blood cancer patients, and highlighted how where someone is treated can affect their care – a stark reminder of the “postcode lottery” many still face.
MABC Chair Abi Pointing and Vice Chair Elaine Kinsella spoke passionately about the charity’s mission and the impact of our patient grant scheme, which helps families with urgent needs — from fixing leaking roofs and broken boilers to covering food bills, transport and more. Future ambitions for the charity were also announced, as we are looking into the possibility of funding research development grants to enable researchers from local universities to test a range of blood cancer hypotheses.
Together, the event reflected everything MABC stands for: community, compassion, and commitment to better care for blood cancer patients.
We’ll be announcing the total raised very soon — thank you to everyone who came, donated, and helped make the day so special.
