From adrenaline-fuelled skydives to hosting exquisite charity suppers, giving back has truly become part of Paul Thorley’s DNA.
Since moving to the Isle of Wight in 2019, Paul has been on a mission to make a meaningful difference, and we are incredibly grateful that he chose to champion Wessex Cancer Support.
Read Paul’s story on how and why he chooses fundraise for Wessex Cancer Support.
From skydives and charity suppers to marathons and networking meetings, giving back to Wessex Cancer Support has become part of Paul Thorley’s DNA.
When Paul moved to the Isle of Wight in 2019, he wanted to find a cause where he could make a meaningful difference.
And when an opportunity to skydive presented itself through Wessex Cancer Support, he jumped at it, quite literally.
“For me, it was all about attaching myself to a charity and a group of people that I could help. The skydive was something I always wanted to do, and it gave me a chance to learn more about Wessex Cancer Support and the important work it does. I really connected with the charity and felt I could raise some money that would make an impact.”
Since the skydive, Paul has continued his unwavering support for our cause.
As a trained chef, Paul has hosted charity suppers, preparing distinctive, multi-course meals, which have been incredibly popular.
He also created three-course Christmas meal boxes, which raised around £7,000 for Wessex Cancer Support during the Covid pandemic.
Paul has twice run the London Marathon, having initially been denied the opportunity when he was struck by Covid.
In 2025, Paul supported and mentored a team of 15 runners, who collectively raised over £50,000 for Wessex Cancer Support.
“Medicine is one thing, treatment is another, but how you feel is so important when facing cancer. That’s what does it for me. The wraparound care provided by Wessex Cancer Support is so important. The counselling, therapies and activities, and the chance to talk to people who understand what it’s like. If the money I can raise, and as a community we can raise, helps all that to happen, then it’s absolutely all worth it.”
No one’s experience of cancer is the same. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, or you’re supporting a loved one who has been diagnosed with cancer, having the right support is essential for your emotional and physical wellbeing.
Our cancer support centers provide free, local services to support you in a non-clinical, safe and welcoming environment. Learn more about our services here, and if you would like to speak to one of our friendly team, contact your local cancer support centre.
Our services are funded through the generous donations we receive, through our fundraising events such as our Christmas Carol Concert and our Wessex Lottery. Alternatively, you can also support us by joining #TeamWessex as a volunteer.
If you would like to join Paul in supporting Wessex Cancer Support, contact our Fundraising Team today:
Email: fundraising@wessexcancer.org.uk
Call: 023 8067 2200