Boot Out Breast Cancer 2026 Enchanting Midsummer Nights Dream Ball

Ian Wilkinson, CEO of Perspective Financial Group Limited and DJH Perspective Wealth Management and a trustee of the charity for the past two years, addressed guests on the night with a powerful and heartfelt speech. He highlighted both the scale of the challenge and the extraordinary determination of the charity’s founder, Debbie, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009. Ian reflected on Debbie’s courage, noting that “she could have withdrawn — which would have been completely natural — but instead she came out fighting. Not only for herself, but for countless others. The name says it all: Boot Out Breast Cancer.” He reminded guests that cancer touches almost every family and underlined the importance of early diagnosis. With breast cancer affecting 1 in 7 women — and 1 in 1,000 men — the charity’s work remains vital. (NOTE 1 in 7 now)

Guests also heard directly from the hospitals that will benefit from the funds raised. Leeds Teaching Hospitals and the Macclesfield NHS Breast Unit shared moving video messages explaining how the vital equipment funded by the evening will support earlier detection and improved patient care. The audience was also deeply touched by a heartfelt message of support from Dame Sarah Storey, the charity’s Founder Patron, who spoke passionately about the importance of the charity’s work and the difference the fundraising will make to patients and their families.

A standout element of Boot Out Cancer is its commitment to ensuring that every pound raised directly funds equipment and resources. “This charity doesn’t pay salaries to anyone,” Ian emphasised, praising Debbie and partner Iain for personally paying for their own table at the event. “It speaks volumes about their integrity and their drive to make a real difference.”

Last year’s fundraising focus was on securing a new Contrast Enhanced Spectral Mammography machine for the Wigan, Wrightington and Leigh Foundation NHS Trust. A cutting-edge tool that enhances early detection in dense breasts. Debbie’s tireless negotiation also secured A Savi Scout system for West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust covering patients in St. Albans and Watford, which included a 5 year maintenance agreement costing £140,000, making the charity’s fundraising impact even more meaningful.

Thanks to the generosity shown on the night, the charity has now exceeded that milestone.

Debbie Dowie, Founder and Volunteer Chair of BOBC, said:

“The Midsummer Night’s Dream ball was truly magical. I was completely blown away by the generosity in the room and by the incredible support from our guests, sponsors and volunteers. Every pound raised will help us continue our vital work supporting breast screening services. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who made the evening so special.”

The Midsummer Night’s Dream Ball stands as a testament to the passion, resilience and community spirit driving Boot Out Breast Cancer forward — and DJH Perspective Wealth Management is honoured to play a part in that journey.

For further information and upcoming BOBC events, please see https://bootoutevents.co.uk/