A CHARITY ball in Huddersfield raised almost £10,000 to help teenage cancer patients.
..TEXT: The event was held at the Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, and raised £9,686 for the Teenage Cancer Trust. ..TEXT: The trust helps to pay for the Teenage Cancer Unit at St James's Hospital in Leeds, which caters for patients aged 13 and over. ..TEXT: The ball began with a champagne reception for 300 guests, followed by a meal and live entertainment from the Royal Connection band. ..TEXT: There was also a raffle and auction of prizes given by local businesses. ..TEXT: The event was sponsored by Brighouse property developers Binks Vertical. ..TEXT: Supporter Helen Chappelow thanked everyone who had helped with the event. ..TEXT: She said: "It was the first ball we had done and it was fantastic. We want to thank everyone and it is something we want to do again." ..TEXT: Mrs Chappelow, of Mirfield, has been raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust since her son was treated at the St James's Hospital unit four years ago. ..TEXT: She said: "He is 17 now and is OK. But I know the importance of these units and how much they can help a teenager diagnosed with cancer. ..TEXT: "If it wasn't for these units, teenagers would either be on wards with very young children or with much older people. ..TEXT: "The fact that they are all young people together helps them a lot. Plus they have all sorts of activities." ..TEXT: The Teenage Cancer Trust is trying to set up committees, which will raise money specifically for teenage cancer units in certain regions. ..TEXT: Mrs Chappelow has volunteered to chair a Yorkshire committee, to support the unit at St James's Hospital. ..TEXT: She said: "We need as much support as possible." ..TEXT: Anyone interested in joining the committee should phone Mrs Chappelow on 01924 493359.
