A WOMAN who gave up her job to care for her husband has slammed charity box thieves.
Claire Downs, 30, from Colwyn Bay, has cared for her partner since 2008, when he was diagnosed with leukaemia. The former florist said discovering a Leukaemia Research collection box had been stolen from Beardsalls Jewellers in Rhos-on-Sea had turned her stomach.
The mother-of-two said: “It is something that is really close to my family and I can’t believe it. Stealing a charity box is the lowest of the low. One day my husband will get better and the money raised by the charity will help him and many others.”
Joan Leach, a local volunteer for Leukaemia Research, has resorted to putting chains on charity boxes as many have been stolen from the Rhos-on-Sea and Llandudno area. She said: “I have had them stolen from banks, post offices and shops. The chains have been cut, that didn’t even work. They have removed chains and locks. You shouldn’t have to do it, but in this day and age you do.
“I have just given up contacting the police. Even with CCTV we can not trace the thieves. There could be a fair amount in that box and the money is so important for families such as Claires.”
The funding raised helps with the life saving treatment including improving diagnosis and treatments, and running groundbreaking clinical trials for all blood cancer patients.
Mrs Downs said: “As a family we struggle for money, but you just manage. That’s what people do they do not steal. It is just disgusting. These charity boxes are essential.”
Leukaemia Research are looking for volunteers of all ages in the local area. For further information call Mrs Leach on 01492 540516.