Facebook exec’s campaign raises £2.5m for research into rare cancer

Almost 6,000 donors raised £2.5 million to fund life-saving research into a rare form of cancer, as part of a campaign by Facebook’s Nicola Mendelsohn who is battling the condition.

The 36-hour campaign to tackle follicular lymphoma (FL) was backed by high-profile figures, including social media influencer and ex-JFS student Julius Dein, who encouraged his 60 million followers to donate.

Funds were matched by philanthropists Andy and Jaime Peykoff, with more than 5,792 donors contributing, surpassing the initial £2m target.

Among them was 25-year-old athlete Andrew McAslan, who was diagnosed with the condition, as well as Sally Hurman and her husband Gav, who also has FL. Sally and Andrew both recruited more than 1,000 donors to the campaign, raising more than £100,000.

Mendelsohn, founder and chair of the Follicular Lymphoma Foundation, was recently promoted to vice president of Facebook Inc’s global business group.

She discovered a small lump in 2016, before a CT scan revealed she had more tumours around her body.

Speaking about the fundraiser, she said: “Our 36-hour campaign was exhilarating and emotionally charged. I am so incredibly grateful for the amazing global support we received from friends, family and FL patients alike.

“The campaign could never have happened without the remarkable generosity of Andy and Jaime Peykoff, who matched every penny.

“The money we’ve raised will ensure we can accelerate our journey towards cures for follicular lymphoma. I’d like to personally thank everyone who took part and who donated.”

Dein said: “I was delighted to contribute to the FLF fundraiser using my platform to bring positive awareness and raise funds for FL research. Onwards and upwards”

• Find out more here: https://www.theflf.org/new-page-4
• Donate here: https://www.charityextra.com/flf