Burnham holiday homes for cancer patients facing closure

Balls to Cancer works to support cancer sufferers in the UK, be it financially or emotionally.

The charity owns two "luxury holiday homes" in Burnham-on-Sea for those affected by cancer to stay in and enjoy a well deserved trip to the seaside.

Mark Bates, co-founder of Balls to Cancer, set up the charity in 2011, and said the idea for the beachside holiday homes was inspired by his fellow co-founder's grandfather who suffered with cancer.

"All he wanted was a last holiday by the sea.

"We thought of all the families that can't afford to do this for their loved ones, and it went from there."

The holiday homes, based at Haven holiday park, welcome anyone who has been or is currently being affected by cancer, including family, whom often feel helpless to the situation.

Mark described how impactful and important these beachside trips can be to those dealing with cancer.

"It's a break from all things cancer, and feedback confirms this.

"They are the first holiday some of our families have ever had, but for most, the last they will ever have; to get away and just be them, to be a family."A comment from one of many cancer sufferers who was positively impacted by their trip to Burnham-on-Sea. (Image: Balls to Cancer)

Unfortunately, despite "amazing" fundraising efforts from the public since the charity's beginnings in 2011, the future of the holiday homes is now in the balance.

Balls to Cancer are appealing to the public for donations so they can continue to provide these vital get-aways for families struggling with cancer.

"We will seriously have to consider the future of one or both of our caravans.

"This will be devasting as we know how important they both are.

"Just reading the guest books tells you what they mean."

Donations to the cause can be made on the Balls to Cancer official JustGiving page.