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Sailing Into Sunnier Days

Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust helps young people feel more accepted, independent and optimistic as they look to life beyond cancer

Young people sailing in an Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust vessel

"If you talk to someone who's not had cancer, they give you sympathy. Sometimes you're not really looking for that. You're looking for someone who knows. You just want to talk about it."

This summer, 25-year-old Shaun was one of more than 650 young people to benefit from the support of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. This national charity takes children, teenagers and young adults on sailing and outdoor adventures to inspire them to believe in a brighter future living through and beyond cancer.

Sailing Out And Opening Up

Shaun was diagnosed with a brain tumour in January 2022. His life went on hold as he underwent treatment. He found it hard to open up to his family and friends about what he was feeling and going through. That changed this summer when he spent four days sailing with the Trust on Scotland's West Coast.

"When you're in such a positive environment, it feels good to tell bits and bobs that have happened to us and take it all in. I think that's what's best for what we've been through, you get to process everything in a healthy way."

An hour from Shaun's hometown of Glasgow, the Trust's base in Largs opened in 2014. This was the perfect place for Shaun to escape and take on this new adventure.

A Twenty-Year Voyage

Launched by the history-making round the world yachtswoman Dame Ellen MacArthur in 2003, this year the Trust celebrated its 20-year anniversary.

Almost 3,200 young people from across the UK have sailed with the charity from its bases on the Isle of Wight and in Scotland. They've felt more accepted, independent, and optimistic as they start to look towards a brighter future.

Players of People's Postcode Lottery have raised more than £4 Million for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust over the last ten years allowing the trust to reach hundreds of young people impacted by cancer.

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People's Postcode Lottery, said, "It's been incredible to see the impact that player support has had and how it has enabled The Trust to reach even more young people than before and allowing them to see a life beyond cancer."

Making A Difference

People's Postcode Lottery players are helping deserving causes like Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust make a difference every single day. Read more about the range of Charities which our players support.