Cancer is a Drag
1219. Alan Bugg
Alan Bugg, from London, is the founder of ‘Cancer is a Drag’, a charity that raises money through Drag Performances and events to provide financial 'wellbeing' grants to people and their families living with cancer.
Alan was diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2010 and found himself struggling and unable to work as a Primary School Teacher following multiple rounds of chemotherapy. During this time, Alan realised there was not enough financial support available to cancer sufferers. During his second diagnosis and treatment he was inspired to help others and stop cancer being any more of a ‘drag’ than it already is.
The charity aims to support around 50 people a year who are suffering emotionally and financially with small wellbeing grants. The grants help with travel, mortgage payments, bills, living expenses, new clothes, short breaks away to recuperate, or with a special night out or gift. Alan has always loved Drag performances and now organises regular fundraising events across the UK, with the help and support of his patrons, ambassadors, attaches and volunteers, a ‘Cancer is a Drag Family’ who walk each year at Pride in London.
Alan’s award follows on from this year’s London’s Pride parade.
In a personal letter to Alan, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“You know from your own experiences the importance of support for those living with cancer, and the small grants you offer through ‘Cancer is a Drag’ make a big difference to people’s lives. As we celebrate London’s Pride Parade 2019, I wish you and your supporters well with your continued fundraising.”
Alan said:
“I can’t believe the voluntary work that myself and our ‘Cancer is a Drag Family’ attempts to do to support people living with cancer has been recognised, and I am more than honoured! This has given our small charity a big lift, exactly what we too want to give to our fellow sufferers! Massive love and thanks.”