Cancer patients receiving care from East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) have been handed a £29,000 boost thanks to the generosity of a global shipping company.

Mediterranean Shipping Company (UK) Ltd, also known as MSC UK, has raised £29,077 for the Cancer Wellbeing and Information Centres at Colchester and Ipswich hospitals. The money will be used to continue to provide support to people who have been diagnosed with cancer, are having treatment or are living with and beyond cancer.

It comes after MSC UK chose Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity as its gold charity of the year and raised money by taking part in events such as the Whole Hog obstacle race. The firm also donated a year’s supply of tea, coffee and soft drinks for patients and families using cancer services at the hospitals.

“I chose cancer services because it’s a cause really close to my heart,” said MSC UK employee Helen Alden [Pictured first on the left, bottom row], who nominated the hospitals as the company’s gold charity of the year. “My mum and other family and friends have been diagnosed with cancer and treated at the hospital, so I knew the difference it would make.” 

Jude Rouse, MSC UK business process manager, added: “MSC UK has proudly concluded a heartfelt collaboration with ESNEFT’s cancer centres, which were voted as our gold charity of the year for 2023 by our incredible MSC UK people. This has been a journey rooted in a shared commitment to community wellbeing, which has made a real impact on cancer care initiatives and patient support. 

“Throughout the year, we’ve poured our hearts into organising fundraising events and volunteer programs, and to connecting with our staff on a personal level. ESNEFT, which is known for its unwavering commitment to excellence, has been more than a partner – it’s been an inspiration. 

“The funds we raised will be vital in helping projects within the wellbeing centres to continue. This has been an incredibly rewarding collaboration which underlines MSC UK’s commitment to actively contributing to the betterment of our community.”

Sandra Gosney, community fundraising manager with Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, said: “We were thrilled to have been chosen as MSC UK’s gold charity of the year.

“The partnership has enabled us to make a significant difference in the lives of patients receiving treatment. We are extremely grateful for MSC UK’s commitment and thank their employees for their incredible efforts.”