Sail 4 Cancer connects with Wightlink this summer to support patients

Sail 4 Cancer connects with Wightlink this summer to support patients © Sail 4 Cancer

Sailing charity Sail 4 Cancer is proud to announce a far-reaching partnership with Wightlink, the award-winning ferry operator that links the Isle of Wight with the mainland through three convenient routes.

This will see many families affected by cancer enjoying a free trip to the Isle of Wight for a much-needed respite break.

Eligible families will be able to take a car and up to seven people across to the Isle of Wight for either a day trip or a longer break, from either Portsmouth or Lymington.

Mark Brocklehurst, Respite Manager at Sail 4 Cancer in Shoreham explained: "The pandemic has been a really stressful time for families living with the effects of cancer. Many of the people we help have had vital treatment and surgery postponed or cancelled altogether. More than ever, our beneficiary families need something nice to look forward to after an incredibly difficult 18 months."

"Thanks to the immense generosity of Wightlink, families from all over the UK will be able to spend some time together away from the stress and strain of living with a cancer diagnosis. The Isle of Wight is a magical place and I know from personal experience how relaxing and beautiful it is."

"Wightlink has been incredibly generous in donating a large number of return crossings for Sail 4 Cancer sponsored families and we cannot thank the company enough. These trips across to the Island will make a massive difference to the lives of many families. Thank you very much indeed."

Commenting on the announcement, Wightlink's Marketing and Innovation Director, Stuart James said: "Given our mutual connection with the sea, Wightlink has enjoyed a long association with Sail 4 Cancer that goes back nearly twenty years. In the past we have taken cancer patients and their families across to the Island to join yachts and other craft so that they could enjoy days out on the water. However, this is the first time we have provided travel so families can enjoy the Island itself and its many attractions."

Interested parties can apply for a return crossing by visiting the Something To Look Forward To website under the section marked Sail 4 Cancer. These trips are intended to support families where an individual has cancer and families which have suffered a bereavement in the last 12 months. Places are limited and proof of a medical diagnosis will be required.