For the past 25 years with music provided by a band of lodge members known as ‘The O’Gee’s’, the Old Guisborian Band Nights have raised thousands of pounds for the Worshipful Masters chosen charities but this year had a more personal connection for W Bro Andrew Walker and his family.
Many of the brethren and their families have been affected by cancer over the years. This past 12 months has affected Andrew’s wife Nicola and the lodge DC, W. Bro Keith Riches (Andrew’s Father-in-Law) and of course their families including Keith’s wife Lesley.
After returning from the Provincial visit to Supreme Grand Chapter in November 2022 Keith was diagnosed with a tumour on his left kidney. It was successfully operated on in early 2023, but post op the tumour was tested and found to be cancerous. Keith’s health continues to be monitored and no doubt you will see him out on Active Chapter Team visits.
Whilst Keith was recovering from his operation, his and Lesley’s daughter Nicola was diagnosed with Stage 2 Beast Cancer. She underwent two operations at York hospital and is now undergoing Chemo and Radiotherapy at Scarborough and James Cook Hospitals respectively.
After hearing the news, the lodge brethren decided that the proceeds from the lodges Band Nights should go to Cancer Research UK. The Band Nights were planned as usual, this time over two separate nights in September and October, one at Nunthorpe and Marton Recreation Club and one at Guisborough Quoit Club. The first planned by one of the lodges newer brethren, fellowcraft Bro. Ben Harrison and the second by the IPM, W. Bro. Paul Reed, the entertainment for the nights being provided by local bands, ‘Crimson Skies’ and ‘Shiver’.
An attendance at both nights of 120 revellers respectively saw them all have a cracking time, enjoying the pie and peas, the company, the quiz, the music and the dancing. The two nights raised £2000 for ‘Cancer Research UK’, the lodge already making a donation to ‘Breast Cancer Now’.
1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer. But thankfully, due to the research by charities such as the aforementioned more and more people are able to receive treatment and live longer happier lives. Our best wishes on a speedy recovery to Nicola and Keith and ‘Keep on rocking all’.
