Behind ‘see it. treat it.’ - Meet Appeal Board Member: Dave McCarthy

Our ‘see it. treat it.’ appeal is led by a dedicated group of people who share the same incredible goal - to transform cancer care for patients across our region.

We spoke with Dave McCarthy, Head of Operations at Sheffield United FC ahead of our upcoming takeover day at Bramall Lane.

What is your connection to Weston Park Cancer Charity?

My relationship with Weston Park Cancer Charity started in around 2012 and I was asked to be a Patron of the charity in 2016 – something I am immensely proud of. I have a long-standing relationship with the hospital and the care it provided to my parents, my brother, my sister, my father-in-law and various friends.

What inspired you to join the 'see it. treat it.' Appeal Board?

I was invited to be one of the members of the ‘see it. treat it.’ Appeal Board’ and was instantly enthused by what a difference the MRI Simulator can make to the care provided by the amazing staff at Weston Park Cancer Centre.

The benefits of having this amazing piece of kit at Weston Park, to service those in and around Sheffield cannot be underestimated and straight away I felt that the people of our great city, and beyond, would think the same. Although a huge amount needed to be raised, we could tell the story and ‘’bring it home’’.

What is your role on the Appeal Board and how does your background contribute to its success?

I have a long-standing history of bringing events to Sheffield/Bramall Lane, events that have either created income for the club or raised money for charity. Working with other people at the club, such as Chris and Francesca Wilder and other Blades colleagues, we looked at how we could create a chunk of money for the appeal.

We set about creating ‘The Big Bash’ and with the help of former Blades players and the brilliant staff here at the club, we delivered a memorable occasion back in May last year and with the help of club legend Chris Basham, raised almost £300k for the appeal.

The 'see it. treat it.' appeal is raising £1.85m for a state-of-the-art MRI Simulator - how will this technology transform cancer care for patients across our region?

The simulator will allow early detection, reduce waiting times and as a result will lead to higher survival rates and allow people to have a better quality of life, so therefore transforming the lives of those in need – and the machine will be based here in Sheffield.

Is there a particular moment or story that has stood out to you since joining the Appeal Board?

Yes, the first time that I and the Board were shown on screen how much earlier the MRI Simulator can detect any cancers. My brother sadly passed away from prostate cancer a few years ago, having been treated at Weston Park, and who knows what difference this machine could have made.

What would you say to someone who is considering donating to the appeal?

I would say donate whatever you can as every penny will 100% help. It really doesn’t matter if you are red and white or blue and white, this machine, without a doubt, could help you, your family, your friends, and work colleagues.

Once installed, here in Sheffield, the machine will cut down on waiting times and start changing lives of Sheffielders and others in our region.

Let's make a difference – together.

Join our 'see it. treat it.' appeal and donate today online or text CANCERAPPEAL followed by your donation amount to 70580 to give that amount. For example, CANCERAPPEAL 10 to donate £10. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.