Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Designer market online for Maggie’s
AN on line market showcasing arts and crafts by local designers in aid of Maggie’s Dundee is to take place this weekend.
The Makers for Maggie’s spring market, due to take place at the Malmaison on May 31, is going virtual and allowing the public to browse stalls and make purchases from their own homes.
Each trader, all of whom hail from the Tayside area, will donate at least 15% of any purchase in an effort to support the Dundee care centre during the pandemic.
Organiser Sophie Siegel has dedicated much of her time to raising cash for the centre after it supported her during her battle with cervical cancer.
Diagnosed in 2007, at the age of 29, Sophie said that Maggie’s became as important a part of her diagnosis, treatments and recovery as the doctors and nurses.
She said: “From the moment I walked into Maggie’s I felt at home.
“When it all became too much for me – dealing with a diagnosis that would cancel all my plans for having a family, a failed hysterectomy, my long-term relationship breaking up, financial worries and my family being far away in Germany – the staff at Maggie’s were there to listen, give advice and simply make lots of cups of tea for me.
“It was fantastic to have access to psychological support, relaxation sessions, a young women’s support group, literature and other support groups.
“But it was also a place for me, where I could come for a cup of tea after radiotherapy and chemo sessions before driving home.
“Maggie’s is a place that simply made me feel a little bit better during a dark and difficult time.
“Ever since I felt well enough I have supported Maggie’s Dundee through organising fundraising events. I want to give back for all the help and support I received.”
Annie Long, fundraising manager for Maggie’s Dundee, added: “The centre is still offering its vital support online and over the phone but it need funds to keep providing this service.
“It is also difficult for designers, artists and makers to sell and create their wares, so that’s why we’re all coming together from the safety of our homes and are able to support Maggie’s as well as our small local independent businesses.”
To get involved with the Makers for Maggie’s online market, head to their Facebook or Instagram page on May 16 and 17.
The charity is also running a raffle until May 24. The ticket is £2, with prizes donated by the makers and other local businesses. All money raised will go directly to Maggie’s Dundee.