Uniting to fight cancer

Aligned with the Foundation’s objectives to help young people, funds generated through the Club’s six-year link with The Christie have always concentrated on supporting the Young Oncology Unit (Y.O.U.), which provides care and rehabilitation for teenagers with cancer.

Historically, the partnership has highlighted the importance of exercise during cancer treatment and has funded physiotherapy staff to work solely with young patients.  Redevelopments to The Christie meant that the fundraising emphasis shifted last season, when it was decided that future income would support the development of a gym to be housed next door to the Y.O.U.

The Reds will donate equipment once used at the Aon Training Complex and in an added bonus, head of fitness and conditioning Tony Strudwick has volunteered to work with the hospital’s physiotherapy team to develop new exercise programmes for the patients.

Earlier this month, Tony paid a visit to the world-leading facility alongside former Coronation Street actress Shobna Gulati.

Tony commented, “I’ve spoken to Christie staff and invited them to the Aon Training Complex so they can see how we work with our players. It’s nice to reach out and give something back, to have an impact and support such a worthwhile facility in the community.”

Shobna, a long-term supporter of both the Foundation and The Christie, is also delighted to lend her support to such a beneficial partnership: “Irrespective of their illness, these children have the same hopes, dreams and aspirations as any other child. The Y.O.U. is a positive environment; it’s a fantastic facility and I think it’s great that United are involved.”

The new facility is due for completion in spring 2014.  For more information about the partnership with The Christie please click here.

Visit The Christie’s website.