Member Article

Football Stars rally to support TOMA Fund Charity Dinner

TOMA Fund is pleased to announce that Patrons Mark Gillespie (Carlisle United) and Paul Dummett (Newcastle United FC) have confirmed their attendance at the annual fundraising dinner on 22nd November. They join other sporting guests, businesses and individuals who will be supporting the children’s cancer charity later this month.

Greg McDermott and Newcastle United’s Sammy Ameobi will also be there. Their participation is not only to help raise vital funds but also because of their close personal connection with the cause. It is close to the hearts of the four footballing stars as they all played in the Newcastle United Academy with Jordan Thompson. Jordan, the son of TOMA Fund Founder Andrea Thompson, lost his battle with leukemia at the young age of only 15 years.

The Tiaras and Tuxedos Ball at the Newcastle Marriot Hotel, Gosforth Park will be a fun filled evening with a variety of entertainment and surprises. The funds raised will support children, teenagers, young people and their families, who have been affected by a diagnosis of childhood cancer in the North East. This support may be in the form of non-medical gifts, immediate financial intervention or, sadly, funeral and memorial expenses.

The charity has been well supported by the local community and has some interesting and valuable prizes for the evening. These include the generous donation from Alan Pardew, Newcastle United Manager of a meet and greet with the team at the training ground for two people.

Mark Gillespie said: “Jordan’s plight had a big impact on us all and it is important to us to continue to help raise awareness of the TOMA Fund. We’re so proud of how much they have achieved so far and the difference their support has made to so many families.’

Paul Dummett added: “The gala dinner gives us the opportunity to meet other TOMA Fund fundraisers and supporters. It’s great that we are able to take this opportunity to secure more funds for the charity so that they continue their fantastic work.”

Andrea Thompson, Founder and Chief Executive of the TOMA Fund, commented: “It is really special to have such unwavering support from Jordan’s friends. We’re delighted that Paul, Gregg, Sammy and Mark are joining us at this our major fundraising event and celebration of the year. Their presence and commitment will help us to secure the funds that make such a difference to families dealing with cancer. We do still have a few tickets available so it’s not too late to join us if you want to show your support.”

The TOMA Fund Tiaras and Tuxedos Ball is on Saturday 22 November at the Gosforth Park Marriott Hotel. Tickets are priced at £50 person. Alternatively, tables of 10 are priced at £470 and tables of 12 are £540.

To book your tickets, or to donate a raffle or auction prize, please email Ann Hedley (annhedley@tomafund.org) or call 0191 4956187.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by TOMA Fund .