February 4th marks World Cancer Day, an annual global observance coordinated by the Union for International Cancer Control to advance cancer awareness and mobilise action. This year's focus emphasises sharing stories and community connection. Crossroads Macmillan Volunteer Service advocates for cancer patients throughout Kent & Medway, providing supportive listening and care year-round.
Ways to get involved include submitting your story through the Upside Down Challenge, where people record themselves upside down while describing how cancer has affected their lives — submissions are welcome from patients, carers, and family members, with the option to remain anonymous or be credited with a photo.
Other local and national ways to take part:
24-Hour Online Letter Writing Marathon — coordinated by the UK charity From Me To You, connecting volunteer letter-writers worldwide with cancer patients.
Football Stadium Walk — Adrian Conoboy MBE, founder of We Can Kick It, will walk 40 miles across London in 24 hours, visiting seven professional football grounds to raise £10,000 for cancer support.
5K Your Way Meet-Up — Move Against Cancer runs walking and running events at Battersea parkrun, with satellite groups in Leybourne, Tunbridge Wells, and Gillingham.
Let's stand united this World Cancer Day — join in locally, share your story, and help us raise awareness.