A COUPLE who have both overcome a fight against cancer are hosting a special Halloween event to raise funds for the hospital where they received life-saving treatment.
After both receiving life-saving radiotherapy treatments in the past three years, Emma Church and partner Shelley Binks are determined to give back to Southend Hospital.
Taking place today and Friday from 4pm until late, the event has transformed part of the couple's street in Copdoek, Basildon, into a Halloween extravaganza.
It features themed walk-throughs, games, raffles, and other activities for visitors of all ages.
All proceeds will go to support the Southend Hospital Radiotherapy Appeal, aiming to enhance cancer treatment options for patients across the area.
The charity was chosen after both Emma and Shelley had to overcome cancer in recent years.
Emma said: “We started doing Halloween events, a few years ago, and it has just got bigger and bigger.
“This year we decided to do it for Southend Hospital’s Spotlight Radiotherapy Appeal as three years ago, my partner got diagnosed with stage four cancer.
“Shelley had to undergo chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, and luckily beat that cancer.
“Then in February this year, I found out I had cancer and also underwent radiotherapy. Luckily, I have now also beaten it.
“So, Southend Hospital Spotlight Radiotherapy Appeal will change the way radiotherapy is done.
“People won’t have to have moulds over faces, or be strapped down to the table, all things like that. It should make it a much easier experience for cancer patients, and people going through such a traumatic time anyway.”
Anyone is welcome to visit the Halloween event in Copdoek, Basildon, with part of the street now kitted out with decorations.
Emma added: “We also had a family who moved near us, Lola Young and her family, and they love Halloween as much as we do.
Fun - Emma and Shelley excited to welcome residents (Image: Emma Church)
“So, we have taken up a lot of the street now with decorations. There are three walk-throughs, raffles, cake sales, and games.
“Loads on offer for everyone. The more people the merrier. We are getting nervous hoping people turn up, but it is always a lot of fun on the night.”
For more details, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/3329959270642065.
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