Swayne & Partners get muddy and make a difference for Cancer Research UK

At Kin Vet Community, we’re incredibly proud of our people – and never more so than when they rally around each other to make a real difference. This summer, the team at Swayne & Partners in Bury St Edmunds did just that, swapping their scrubs for sportswear and braving the mud to raise funds for Cancer Research UK, showing support for a much-loved former colleague.

On Sunday 15th June, a 14-strong team of vets, nurses and support staff – aka ‘The Fast and the Furriest’ – completed the Race for Life Pretty Muddy 5K in Ipswich.

Their inspiration was their former team member, Jess, a 29-year-old Registered Veterinary Nurse, who was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year – just months after losing her mum to the same disease. Prior to her own diagnosis, Jess completed her own charity runs raising money for both St Nicholas Hospice and cancer research. She has remained incredibly positive throughout her treatment, sharing her journey on social media to raise awareness and encourage others to check for early signs of cancer.

The team originally set out with a fundraising target of £1,350, but thanks to overwhelming support from colleagues, clients and the local community, they’ve now raised £3,000 – more than doubling their goal. The funds will help Cancer Research UK continue its vital work into cancer prevention, treatment and support.

“When the practice found out about Jess’s diagnosis it was a shock,” said Ward Manager, Laura. “As a large team of predominantly women, it is important to us to raise awareness and show our support for our friend and everyone affected by cancer. Jess has been a beacon of strength, positivity, and determination and we hope she is as proud of us as we are of her.”

“The race was so much fun, and it meant a lot to us all that Jess was there to cheer us on from the sidelines. We are beyond grateful for all the support and donations from our clients, friends, families.”

“We’re blown away by the generosity of our clients, colleagues and the wider community,” said Hayley, the Head Nurse supporting the team. “We set a modest goal to begin with, but the support has been overwhelming and really motivated us.”

Their JustGiving page remains open for anyone who would still like to donate: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/team/the-fast-and-the-furriest

At Kin Vet Community, we believe in the power of people – in our practices, and the communities they care for. The Swayne & Partners team show the true heart of our profession: teamwork, compassion, and a drive to support one another through every challenge.

“We’re incredibly proud of the team at Swayne & Partners,” said Ciara McCormack, CEO of Kin Vet Community. “This fundraiser shows exactly what Kin is about – people coming together in our community to support each other.”

Well done to ‘The Fast and the Furriest’ – your muddy efforts will help change lives.