Boom Foundation named ‘Charity of the Year’

The Boom Foundation, supports people affected by Sarcoma in Northern Ireland.

It was set up by Coleraine woman Leona Rankin in memory of her fiancé Philip Wilson, who was from Lisburn.

Philip sadly lost his battle to sarcoma in March 2013, just a few weeks before he and Leona were due to marry. Since the charity was formed, over £100,000 has been raised - half of the money raised stays here in Northern Ireland, the other half is used in the UK for vital research into the disease.

Leona, and her team of volunteers were honoured last month when they were named as the Ulster Tatler ‘Charity of the Year’ at a glittering ceremony in Belfast.

Leona told The Times: “We were up against fantastic charities who do amazing work, so we were delighted to have been recognised for our achievements, namely, having raised over £110,000 in just over a year and helping sarcoma patients and their families right across NI.

“This award will no doubt raise the profile of The Boom Foundation and, most importantly, help raise awareness of sarcoma cancer in NI.

“We would like to thank all those who nominated The Boom Foundation for the award and would ask anyone who thinks that they can support The Boom Foundation in any way to get in touch - we would love to hear from you.”