Sport, whilst on the surface is just a game, has an impact on people that can be incredibly powerful, and Rugby Against Cancer founder Aaron Beasley is using this to the advantage of charity.
Rugby Against Cancer is a non-profit charity organisation that raises money to support those who are affected by any form of the illness, using rugby as its primary fundraising.
Formed in May 2018, and after five years of success and growth, the committee are looking to continue that upward trajectory and push the charity to new heights.
The Charity website says ‘The charity is run by a team of volunteers who have a passion for rugby and have all been personally affected by cancer in their own lives or friends, family & teammates. Each individual offers their time to help grow, manage and coordinate the charity so we can run events and give back to the community’.
‘Cancer is something that has an impact on so many families and the people around us every day. It is a disease which has affected my family and is very close to my heart. The opportunity to be an ambassador for a great charity in Rugby against cancer is a massive honour, allowing me to hopefully help some families in our rugby community affected by this disease in any way I can!’
Rugby Against Cancer has several forms of support, which include brand kit bags which contain items to help adults or children undergoing cancer treatment such as water bottles, headphones and notebooks to use through chemotherapy.
They are also able to give grant donations to cover costs that being affected by the illness can cause such as personal costs or to help pay for treatment that is not available from the NHS.
Possibly the most interesting form of support they provide is ‘The RAC Shack’, a holiday home owned by the charity in Poole, that is offered for free weekend trips to those who deserve a break to relax and spend time with family whilst fighting or recovering from the illness, helping those affected to make precious memories.
To help raise money, RAC sells merchandise, puts on events such as ‘Sock Takeover’ and ‘Strictly Come Rugby’ and takes donations.
They also compete in 7’s rugby tournaments during the summer, all around the country to help spread awareness about the illness and also raise the profile of the brand to gain more followers and supporters, which in time will lead to more money raised.
Rugby Against Cancer has brought on professional Rugby players as ambassadors such as Wales Internationals Ioan Lloyd and Donna Rose, England Internationals Ollie Hassell-Collins, Vickii Cornborough and many other players who compete at the top level in both Men and Women’s Rugby, to help promote the charity.
To donate and support Rugby Against Cancer, visit their website.
