Dedicated fundraising team Glitz & Glamour raise over £200,000 for cancer care since 2013
For over 11 years, Ashbourne-based fundraisers Kay Platt and Caz Harris have been making a difference through their charity initiative, Glitz & Glamour. Established specifically to support The Derby Breast Test Appeal and The Gynaecology Cancer Research Fund (part of Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity), their fundraising efforts have helped to enhance cancer care for patients accessing services in Derby and Burton hospitals with their latest donation totalling over £76,000.
A legacy of dedication
As longstanding fundraisers, Kay and Caz have previously raised £130,000 for these vital causes. Their initial motivation for founding Glitz & Glamour back in 2013 stemmed from Kay’s childhood friend developing cervical cancer and the duo knowing so many people with breast cancer that they felt they wanted to help support cancer care in these areas.
Over the years, the ladies have spearheaded numerous fundraising initiatives, including organising elegant charity balls, arranging endurance-sponsored walks, holding a Christmas Market and a bingo night. They’ve also sold a variety of merchandise including themed calendars, gin, hoodies and tea towels – all demonstrating their creativity and commitment to making a lasting impact. Caz adds “Watch this space for more fundraising projects”.
Charity balls: a community tradition
One of their signature events is the highly anticipated charity ball, held every other year. The events take months of meticulous planning, yet Kay and Caz’s reputation within the community ensures that tickets are always in high demand. Without any need for advertising, their events sell out through word of mouth and attract repeat attendees, highlighting the trust and admiration they have built over the years. The latest ball was held at Osmaston Park in November 2024, with over 500 attendees. Kay and Caz would like to mention and thank Sir Andrew Walker-Okeover and Top Marques UK Ltd of Ashbourne for kindly donating their marquee so these events can go ahead, as well as all of the local businesses who donate prizes for the auction which raised a phenomenal amount of £19,000 for the funds in 2024 alone.
A 26-mile trek for cancer care
In June 2024, Glitz & Glamour organised a 26-mile sponsored walk through the picturesque Derbyshire Dales with Kay also taking part on the day.
The walk was a great community event with 66 people taking part on the day. 15 members of staff from the Royal Derby Hospital also came along to show their support and gratitude. Members of the breast team accompanied the group in a relay covering the full 26 miles.
Consultant breast surgeon, Mark Sibbering saw the groups off. At the end of the walk, Mark was joined by gynaecologist, Anish Bali, and they congratulated each walker with a medal and a glass of fizz.
The walk was such a success that it has been recommissioned for 2025 and will include a half marathon option that will set off after the 26-milers. The event is already proving a success before crossing the start line with over 150 people signed up to take part.
Fundraising for breast and gynaecological cancer care
Glitz & Glamour’s latest fundraising total is of £79,976.66, which will be divided, equally, to benefit the two funds.
Enhancing breast cancer diagnosis and treatment
Mark Sibbering and his team will use funds from The Derby Breast Test Appeal to:
- Introduce Contrast Enhanced Spectral Mammography – this advanced imaging technique combines mammography with contrast enhancement, helping to detect breast cancers that may not be visible on standard mammograms.
- Implement a new Lipofilling system – Lipofilling (or fat grafting) is a procedure used in breast surgery to improve cosmetic outcomes after cancer operations.
Improving facilities and supporting gynaecological training & research
Anish Bali highlighted that the Gynaecology Cancer Research Fund (one of Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity funds) which will contribute to:
- Funding equipment and consumables for lab-based PhD projects that examine the development and progression of ovarian cancer.
- Support training for hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) which will be introduced in the intra-operative surgical management for patients with advanced ovarian cancer.
- Purchasing specialist chairs for women undergoing ultraradical surgery for advanced ovarian cancer.
- Refurbishing the outpatient quiet/counselling room where patients are seen by the Clinical Nurse Specialist after receiving difficult news such as a cancer diagnosis.
A special moment of recognition
Kay and Caz visited the Breast Unit at the Royal Derby Hospital in February to present their cheques, where they were met with appreciation from Mark Sibbering, Anish Bali and Chief Officer of Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity, Jill Matthews. Jill said:
“It’s incredible to see the level of commitment from Kay and Caz, who have set up Glitz & Glamour to benefit so many people in their local community. The dedication they have shown is remarkable and we are incredibly grateful for their ongoing support.”
Thanking the local community
Kay & Caz wanted to show their upmost gratitude to everyone who has supported them these past 11 years. “The support we get is phenomenal and we wouldn’t be able to do this without all of the help from local businesses, family and friends”.
Inspired to get involved?
Glitz & Glamour’s story proves that dedication and community spirit can lead to great achievements. If you feel inspired by their journey, there are many ways to support your local hospital charity, whether through fundraising, attending events, or donations.
Please visit our “Get Involved” page to find out how you can make a difference today.
If you would like to join Glitz & Glamour on their 2025 walk on Sunday 1st June email glitzglamashbourne@gmail.com.
Thank you!
From everyone at Derby & Burton Hospitals, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Glitz & Glamour and their dedicated supporters. We look forward to hearing more about their future fundraising activities.
