Marie Curie Cancer Care - what it involves

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Marie Curie nurses were often seen at Jade Goody's side in the months before her death, even standing in the congregation as Jade said her wedding vows.

But it wasn't Jade's money that paid for this care, it's free for anyone in the 'end stage' of a terminal illness, when treatment is no longer an option. So what do Marie Curie actually do?

What is Marie Curie?

Marie Curie Cancer Care is a charity whose mission is to provide nursing care so that everyone has the choice to die in the comfort of their own homes, just like Jade.

How many people do they help?

This year the charity expects to help nearly 25,000 people in the UK, following a referral from a district nurse, a Macmillan nurse or a GP.

When do they begin caring for someone?

Although they are usually called in for what is expected to be a patient's last 3 months, every situation is different and the nurses will be there for as long as they're needed. Some nurses have continued to care for an individual patient for over a year if they live for longer than expected.

Do they only help cancer patients?

In April 2008, Marie Curie extended their care to non-cancer patients, including those with multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease, heart problems and many more.

This meant that government funding for Marie Curie rose to 50%, leaving the other half to be raised through volunteer work and donations.

Proceeds from Jade's forthcoming book 'Forever in my Heart' will go to Marie Curie, and the charity is asking you to have a tea party this summer to support its Blooming Great Tea Party celebrations.

At the moment half of all cancer patients in the UK die in a hospital bed, the place they would least like to be. Every tea party, however big or small, will help to reduce this number.

For further information about the Blooming Great Tea Party and to receive a free fundraising pack, call 08700 340 040 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty.

By James Bragg