Marks & Spencer raises funds for Breast Cancer

~ Employees and customers donate AED 70,000 to support the noble cause~

November 6, 2013, Dubai: Marks & Spencer wrapped up its annual breast cancer awareness campaign yesterday, held during the month of October in association with Pink Caravan, a Pan UAE breast cancer awareness initiative launched in 2011 by Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), a UAE charitable organisation. 

The campaign committed to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and care included numerous events targeting employees and customers. It is part of Marks & Spencer' Plan A initiative which was launched internationally in January 2007 to promote wellness in the society and help people in leading a healthier lifestyle.

The fund raising initiative received an overwhelming response from customers and employees, enabling Marks & Spencer to raise an amount of AED 70,000.

During this awareness drive, Marks & Spencer deployed medical staff for three consecutive days at selected Dubai and Abu Dhabi stores. The medical expert answered queries, offered guidance on how to conduct the monthly self-examinations and distributed educational pamphlets to customers. This activity was aimed at effectively spreading the message of early detection amongst thousands of UAE residents.

The excitement and enthusiasm quickly extended to include the M&S men senior officials who volunteered to shave their heads as the women coloured their hair pink for the day.

Ms. Sally Wakley, Store Development Manager, Marks & Spencer Al-Futtaim and the ambassador of M&S Plan A initiative said, “We feel a sense of responsibility to support the good cause and M&S has been active in hosting Breast Cancer Awareness programmes globally. The enthusiasm shown by our customers and employees is laudable and we hope the funds raised will make a difference to the lives of cancer patients and promote wellness in the society at large.”

On shaving his head for the occasion, Mark Senior, Marks & Spencer, Head of Operations said, “It's for a good cause. My head shave gesture is prompted to support the enduring strength of cancer patients and convey the message that physical features do not define one's personality.

Through this campaign, Marks & Spencer would like to encourage families in the UAE to proactively take charge of their health”, Mr. Senior added.