Nicholas Cooper, 14, from Bishop Auckland recently took part in an inspirational sailing trip with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, along with a number of young people in recovery from cancer.
Nicholas joined the crew of one of the yachts, to sail on the Firth of Clyde in Scotland in August on a four-day yacht adventure.
For Nicholas, who finished cancer treatment in November 2015 for Metastatic Pineoblastoma at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, this was his first time sailing with the Trust.
He said: “Everyone’s really friendly and it’s a fun trip. We’ve seen dolphins, had water fights, been fishing and sailing.”
Sailing onboard 42-48 foot cruising yachts, the Trust trips provide a chance for young people to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment, encouraging them to work as a team and get involved in everything from helming the boat to cooking.
Nicholas continued: “It’s been good. I’ve made some friends and I’m sad to be leaving but I look forward to coming back next year.”
Departing from their Scottish base in Largs Yacht Haven on Monday, the young people navigated the waters of the Firth of Clyde and enjoyed various stopovers including Port Bannatyne on the picturesque Isle of Bute, before putting their new skills to the test cruising back into Largs.
Launched in 2003, the aim of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is to give young people in recovery from cancer the chance to rebuild their confidence through sailing.
Dame Ellen MacArthur, who tries to spend a day on as many trips as possible, adds, “The mental and social fall-out from cancer can be just as devastating as the physical illness.
“Everything we do is about building confidence, self-esteem and having fun together.”
Now in its 13th year, the Trust has grown beyond every expectation into a national charity.
Working with every young person in a Principal Treatment Centre and a growing number of Designated Units in the UK, they take young people aged between 8-24, who are recovering from cancer, on four-day sailing trips.
Find out how you can support the Trust and help to make a real difference to young people’s live by visiting www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
