Tag: House of Hope

Strictly stars add a touch of sparkle to House of Hope Gala Ball

Strictly Legends Pasha Kovalev and Kristina Rihanoff added a touch of sparkle to the Strictly for Hope Gala Ball at Prestonfield House, to raise vital funds for the House of Hope, Scotland’s first bespoke wellbeing centre for people impacted by breast cancer and their families.

The glittering Strictly themed gala ball was The House of Hope’s biggest fundraising event of the year, to raise money to ensure those impacted by breast cancer can continue accessing fully funded support services, holistic treatments, exercise classes and wellbeing sessions.

Bringing together House of Hope supporters and the business community for an evening of entertainment and empowerment, the event was supported by headline sponsor RevitaLash Cosmetics, silver sponsor PW & Partners and bronze sponsor Hunter Garden Services.

Hazel McLinden, House of Hope Centre Manager said: “The money we have raised will go directly towards enhancing and maintaining the wellbeing services we offer. 

“The Gala Ball wouldn’t have been possible without the ongoing support and commitment from our sponsors, plus our team of generous fundraisers and volunteers, who are all instrumental in the success of the House of Hope and we are incredibly grateful to them all.” 

Recently celebrating its first anniversary, the Edinburgh-based charity has gone from strength-to-strength.

Lori Jacobus, President and Global CMO of RevitaLash Cosmetics said: “We are thrilled to support the House of Hope as headline sponsor, as it’s a charity that aligns closely with our ethos and values. 

“Our story began twenty years ago with one product: the original lash conditioner, created by our Founder, Michael Brinkenhoff, M.D., to help his beloved wife feel beautiful during her brave battle with metastatic breast cancer. Today our physician-led line of cosmetics enhances the health and natural beauty of lashes, brows, and hair while giving back to the cause that started it all – every day of the year.

“Partnering with The House of Hope holds special significance for us as they’re our very first pink-partner to come on board since moving our UK operations in-house earlier this year.  It’s an exciting time, and we’re looking forward to working with The House of Hope to create a long and impactful partnership in the Scottish market.” 

Compered by broadcast stars Grant Stott and Laura Boyd, with Alan Wake star of Manogram – a man with breast cancer, delivering the keynote speech, the evening included showcase dance performances from Strictly stars Pasha Kovalev and Kristina Rihanoff, along with dazzling routines from amateur dancers – Andy, Emma, Denis and Mary – some of whom had never danced before, to raise money for the House of Hope.

The evening was topped off with a fantastic live music set from popular Scottish duo BLEEKER, who regularly perform for charitable causes. 

The Strictly for Hope Gala Ball celebrated the efforts and achievements of the charity to date and paves the way for future fundraising events.

For further information about the wellbeing services and supporting The House of Hope visit houseofhope.org.uk. 

Scottish breast cancer support charity announces first location with backing from the Scotto

The House of Hope, Scotland’s first dedicated wellbeing and support centre for people with breast cancer, has announced its first location on Gorgie Road in Edinburgh ahead of its opening in Spring 2025.

The announcement comes thanks to financial backing from early supporter The Scotto, which will fund the initial rent of the premises. The Scottish lottery, which also sponsors mental health charity SAMH and children’s cancer charity Calum’s Cabin, has generously donated £50,000 to The House of Hope. 

The House of Hope’s first centre will be 490 Gorgie Road, a 3,016 ft² / 280 m² detached farmhouse-style office building located between the city centre and Edinburgh City Bypass. The property – previously home to Autism Initiatives UK’s Edinburgh office – is currently undergoing renovation and will welcome its first visitors next year. 

Founded by Lisa Fleming, who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017, with husband Euan, The House of Hope will provide a supportive space for people impacted by breast cancer, as well as access to holistic therapies and wellbeing services away from the sterile hospital or clinical setting to compliment medical treatments. 

The House of Hope was inspired by London’s first-ever specialised breast cancer centre, Future Dreams House, which offers support through a range of services for women affected by breast cancer, including counselling, yoga, massage, nutrition advice, and peer support groups.

Earlier this month, the centre also welcomed its first Centre Manager, Hazel McLinden, who will manage the House upon its opening in Spring and play a key part in supporting volunteers and visitors alike. Hazel brings over a decade of experience in charity sector to the role, having previously worked with Team Jak Foundation, a charity supporting children and young people with cancer and their families throughout Scotland.

Founder of The House of Hope Scotland, Lisa Fleming, said: “We are so grateful to The Scotto for committing its long-term support to The House of Hope in Scotland, as we prepare to open the doors to the centre in Gorgie next year. 

“It’s so important to have a safe space that offers community and compassionate support for patients and their families following a breast cancer diagnosis, and that’s what we want The House of Hope to be – a haven away from clinical settings while still supporting medical treatment.”

Sales and Partnerships Manager of The Scotto, Marie-Claire Le Ray, said: “At The Scotto, we’re strongly committed to supporting good causes.

“Lisa is an absolutely inspirational woman and we’re proud to support The House of Hope and its vision to support those affected by breast cancer.”