Longstanding Anthony Nolan supporter Dame Joanna Lumley will be among guests attending the stem cell transplant charity’s Christmas Carol Concert as it celebrates 50 years of saving lives.
The iconic actress, campaigner and author will give a reading at the event on 12 December at St Peter’s Church, Eaton Square. The evening will also feature a performance from the inspirational B Positive choir whose singers have all been affected by sickle cell disease and talks from patients and families supported by Anthony Nolan.
Joanna Lumley was an early supporter of the Anthony Nolan charity, working closely with Shirley Nolan who set up the world’s first stem cell register in the hope of finding a match for her son Anthony who had a rare blood disorder.
Sadly, this wasn’t possible for Anthony but since 1974 the charity has gone on to facilitate over 26,500 stem cell transplants for people with blood cancers and blood disorders throughout the world.
Joanna Lumley said, “I was proud to be one of the first people to sign up to the ‘Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Register’ as it was known then. I remember being moved by Anthony’s story and being inspired to work alongside his mother Shirley Nolan, to help raise awareness and funds for the world’s first stem cell register.
“It’s hard to believe that this year marks 50 years of Anthony Nolan. The charity has gone on to save thousands of lives in Anthony’s name through facilitating stem cell transplants for patients with blood cancer and blood disorders and carrying out pioneering research.
“Christmas is always a special time and it’s an honour to be asked to read at the Anthony Nolan carol concert. I’m looking forward to hearing from patients, donors and families and reflecting on how far we have come in the last 50 years.”
Henny Braund MBE, chief executive at Anthony Nolan, said, “The Anthony Nolan Christmas Carol Concert is always one of my favourite events in the calendar and this year it’s even more special as we celebrate 50 years since Shirely Nolan established the register.
“As we reflect on how far we’ve come, it’s important we also recognise that more needs to be done to work towards a future where everyone who needs a stem cell transplant can survive and thrive.
“We couldn’t do what we do without the generosity of our supporters and donors. If you’d like to find out more about our lifesaving work and experience a magical evening, please join us at this special event and help give the gift of hope to patients and families.”
Standard tickets, which cost £25, and premium tickets, which include a post event reception and cost £50, can be purchased here. All funds raised will help give the gift of hope to patients and families by supporting Anthony Nolan’s lifesaving work.