A vibrant local sewing community has raised an incredible £5,800 for the Fountain Centre helping us support people affected by cancer and their families.
The fundraising effort was led by Mel Keane and fellow organiser Yvette Todd, founders of Surrey Sews, a thriving sewing community that has grown from just eight members in 2023 to a regular network of enthusiastic sewists from across Surrey.
The money was raised through SewFizzTeaCated, a unique annual fundraising event combining afternoon tea, a glass of fizz, and a celebration of handmade fashion. This year's event welcomed around 150 guests, all proudly wearing garments they had made themselves.
Originally established to support a sewing project at The Lighthouse in Woking, SewFizzTeaCated chose the Fountain Centre as its charity beneficiary this year following Mel's diagnosis with oesophageal cancer.
A major highlight of the fundraising was a UK-wide raffle featuring a donated Baby Lock overlocker, which alone raised £2,800 towards the total.
Speaking at the event, Mel shared the personal impact the Fountain Centre had during her cancer treatment.
"I received 10 weeks of counselling, which helped me begin to come to terms with living with cancer. It gave me the opportunity to reflect on my life, reassess my priorities, and focus on the people and things that bring me joy."
In addition to the annual fundraising tea party, Surrey Sews hosts regular sewing socials in Woking, fabric swaps, shopping trips and sewing retreats, all organised by a dedicated committee of volunteers.
Everyone at the Fountain Centre would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Mel Keane, Yvette Todd, the Surrey Sews community, event sponsors and supporters for their generosity and commitment. The £5,800 raised will help us continue providing essential support services to local patients and their families when they need them most.
