Celebrate a Life
Who is your shining star?
Each year, thousands of stars are named and hung on the Christmas trees outside our hospitals. Every star has a story of its own and naming a star is a beautiful way to cherish those special to us.
By naming a star and making a donation, you will make a vital difference to the lives of cancer patients and their families.
Celebrate a Life carol services
Every festive season we gather at The Royal Marsden for our Celebrate a Life carol services to celebrate the lives of those most special to us.
This year our services will take place on Tuesday 2 December in Sutton and Thursday 4 December in Chelsea at 6pm. The services will also be livestreamed on Facebook for those who are unable to join us in person.
Find out more about the carol services
Your shining stars
Naming a star is a truly wonderful way to celebrate the lives of those who are special to you.
There are many different reasons you might choose to name a star. You can name a star in memory of someone special. You could thank a staff member at the hospital or celebrate anyone who made a difference when you needed it most.
Discover some of the stories behind the stars.
Seeing all the thousands of stars on the tree amongst the twinkly lights felt really poignant. I’d really recommend taking part in Celebrate a Life.
Commemorative stars
Pin badges
When you name a star, you can choose to receive a gold star pin badge that you can wear or give as a gift.
A star decoration for your tree at home
You can also celebrate those special to you with a Royal Marsden Cancer Charity brass star decoration, to hang on your Christmas tree at home. This unique decoration will be engraved with Celebrate A Life 2025. When you name a star, you will have the option to add a star decoration for an additional suggested donation of £5.
Name your shining star today
Every star named helps make a vital difference to people affected by cancer.