The University’s Centre for Cancer Immunology has almost reached its £25m fundraising target, and we’d like you to help us celebrate our success and tell the world about our pioneering research.

On Thursday 1 February 2018, in the run-up to World Cancer Day, we’re inviting staff and students to wear something white and share photos of themselves on social media using #WearingWhite. It’s an opportunity to mark this incredible fundraising achievement and to raise awareness about our life-saving Centre, reaching new audiences near and far.

There’s even a chance to win a pair of drumsticks signed by Coldplay drummer and campaign donor, Will Champion (pictured above and see below for details). Will grew up in Southampton and his parents were both senior academics at the University before his mother sadly passed away from cancer in 2000.

Through activities ranging from marathon runs to bake sales, and of course last year’s successful #WearingWhite day, the staff community has already played a huge role in making the Centre a reality.

With the Centre just weeks away from completion, we hope you’ll help us to spread the word while doing your bit for World Cancer Day.

It’s easy to get involved

• Wear white on Thursday 1 February.
• Make it your own! Clad yourself in white from head to toe, or accessorise with white jewellery, socks, a scarf or tie, gloves, a hat, or even nail polish – the choice is yours.
• Join us for a group photo shoot on 1 February at 12:15 in the foyer of Building 37, Highfield Campus, so we can illustrate the extensive support we have from the staff community for the campaign.
• Organise your own #WearingWhite events with colleagues, friends or family, encourage students to get involved, or go it alone and take a selfie!
• Share your photos on Twitter and Facebook using #WearingWhite, and use our special #WearingWhite Snapchat filter at Highfield and University Hospital Southampton on 1 February.
• Take the opportunity to remember loved ones affected by cancer or send a message of support to the campaign.

Find out more about how you can get involved here.

Win drumsticks signed by Coldplay’s Will Champion

We’re delighted that Will Champion, Coldplay’s drummer, is supporting #WearingWhite this year. Not only is Will wearing white for World Cancer Day but he has also given us a pair of signed drumsticks to give away to the person submitting the best #WearingWhite photo. Find the full details here.

To be in with a chance of winning this exclusive prize, all you have to do is share your ‘Wearing White’ photos on social media using the #WearingWhite and we will choose the most engaging picture. We also have three runner-up University hoodies to give away.

Why white?

The white theme is inspired by the white blood cells that help protect our bodies from infection and disease. Our researchers are harnessing the power of these cells to fight and eradicate cancer, with amazing results. Read how cancer immunotherapy at Southampton has helped patients like Abi Richards.

More about the Centre for Cancer Immunology

Due to open in spring 2018, the Centre for Cancer Immunology will be the UK’s first centre dedicated solely to cancer immunology research. A world-leading hub for interdisciplinary expertise, the Centre’s new state-of-the-art facilities will enable researchers to expand clinical trials, explore new areas and develop lifesaving drugs more quickly.  Find out more about the Centre and our immunotherapy research on our website.