19 February 2026
The start of a new year means the start of putting together a magical summer. Every February, in order to reach as many young people living through and beyond cancer as possible, we check in with our friends at hospitals and charities right across the UK.
Some of these chats take place online. Some see our team hitting the road for a few days. They all ensure young people who could benefit from a transformational sailing adventure are given the chance to come aboard this summer and experience something special.
We've been all over! Between just five members of the team, we've flown over the Irish Sea to Belfast and journeyed to Aberdeen and Inverness in the far north of mainland Scotland. At the opposite end of the country, we'll be saying hello to Brighton in the South East. Up and down the UK we've been to London, Birmingham and Newcastle, and paying a visit to Glasgow next week.
And they're just the people we've met face-to-face. Online meetings have taken in the rest of the UK, from the South West to the East of England, from Wales to the North West.
Some of you will know Holly, who gives young people and their families a friendly call ahead of their first trip to answer any last-minute questions. She’s loved talking to our partners over the last few weeks and working with them to make this year one to remember. Join Holly on the road and see what a hospital visit looks like - a day in her life.
She said: “It’s been fantastic getting out and about visiting hospitals, as well as catching up with our contacts over Teams meetings. The relationships we’re building are so important - they help us connect with more young people and make sure they hear about the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and the support that’s here for them. Every conversation has been inspiring, and we’re really excited to keep strengthening these partnerships as we get started for 2026.
“We can’t wait to welcome young people this summer - seeing them step on board, meet others who ‘get it’, and discover what’s possible is at the heart of everything we do.”
The team all enjoy a selfie any chance they get - especially at this time of year!
