After shock diagnosis, MD launches £100k campaign and asks why 150 people a day are being diagnosed with breast cancer
A British managing director has launched a powerful fundraising campaign after being diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer, asking the question many are too afraid to voice: “150 people a day are being diagnosed with breast cancer – why is that?”
When Worcester-based business leader Jothie Walford, 50, received her diagnosis earlier this year, her world stopped.
“I couldn’t believe it – I was in total shock,” she said. “With no family history I never thought it would happen to me. My first thought went to my children – I didn’t want them to grow up without a mum.”
That moment of devastation became the spark for action.
Jothie, a mother of two and managing director of British home appliance firm Gtech, has since channelled her experience into a nationwide effort to raise £100,000 for Cancer Research UK and Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven, while also raising awareness about the sharp rise in breast cancer diagnoses.
She said the statistics were impossible to ignore. “The day of my diagnosis was the worst day of my life.
“I have since found out that 150 people a day, every day, are also being diagnosed with breast cancer – they are having their worst day ever – and rates are increasing. Why is that?”
Her words have become a rallying cry for the company’s new ‘Powers Through Everything’ campaign – a slogan that reflects both the company’s product line and the resilience of those battling serious illness.
While still undergoing treatment, Jothie continues to work, supported by her colleagues, family and friends.
As part of the fundraising drive, the company will release a limited-edition Pink AirRam 3 vacuum cleaner, with 20% of profits going directly to the £100,000 target. To bolster donations, anyone who contributes £1,000 or more will receive a free Gtech product.
Two major fundraising events are also planned – including a Bollywood-meets-Hollywood charity ball at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford and a local gala in Worcester later this year.
The campaign has already gained backing from leading medical professionals.
Mr Steven Thrush, Consultant Breast Surgeon at Worcestershire Breast Unit, praised Jothie’s initiative: “From the point of diagnosis through surgery and treatment, our team and the Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven charity are committed to going above and beyond for patients.
“It’s very special when patients decide to give something back. We are delighted to be working with Jothie and her team.”
The initiative, supported under the hashtag #PowerThroughEverything, will also see the company’s logo temporarily turn pink – a visible symbol of solidarity with those fighting cancer.
