We want to say a heartfelt thank you to Edmonton Working Men’s Conservative Club for choosing Breathing Matters as their Charity of the Year for 2025-2026. It has been a real privilege to work alongside such a committed and community-focused club, and the support shown throughout the year has made a genuine difference. Their fundraising efforts have been wide-ranging and full of energy, bringing members together through a variety of events and initiatives, and ultimately raising an outstanding total of £4,000 for research into interstitial lung disease.
We would also like to extend a very special thank you to Chloe Garrott, who has been an exceptional point of contact throughout the partnership. Her support, coordination and communication has been invaluable in helping everything run so smoothly. Our sincere thanks also go to Rob Whybrow, the President, for choosing Breathing Matters as the club’s charity and for championing the partnership from the outset.
We were also very touched to receive this message from the Club:
“Over the past year, we have been raising money for Breathing Matters. This Charity was chosen as a member and a dear friend Richie Dill had passed away at a young age from interstitial lung disease. We have made money in numerous ways including event days, raffles, collection jars, the Knit and Natter ladies and bingo. A special thanks to Mason, who was one of Richie’s closets friend, who has put all his time and effort into raising money by making different types of food for everyone to enjoy – all he asked was to put money in a pot for Breathing Matters in honour of Richie. A big thank you to Donna Basire from Breathing Matters who has been amazing this last year with all her support and updates on the research.
Richie was a lovely man, a gentle giant, he had a heart of gold and wouldn’t hurt a thing. He loved his football, loved a gamble, but most importantly loved his friends and family. When we learnt the news of his illness, it was heartbreaking – a man as lovely as he was dealing with all of this, but he never moaned about it and he kept his head held high. When he passed, it was painful for everyone, but we all mourned together and talked about how amazing he was as a person, a friend, a brother and a son!
We love you Richie ❤️.”
Their words say so much about the love and respect they hold for Richie, and we have been deeply moved by the personal connection that inspired this partnership. It is clear from their words how meaningful this cause has been to everyone involved, and we are honoured to have been part of something so heartfelt.
The funds raised will make a real difference, helping to support vital research into interstitial lung disease. Their kindness, commitment and generosity have meant so much, and we are truly grateful for their support.