People News

Gwyneth Paltrow weeps for dad

Sep 25, 2012, 8:01 GMT

Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow wept as she launched a cancer fundraiser yesterday (24.09.12).

The Oscar-winning actress - whose father Bruce Paltrow lost a battle against the disease in 2002 - wants people to 'fight back' and is backing the 'Stand Up To Cancer' campaign, which aims to raise funds for clinical research.

Speaking at the launch of the campaign in London, she said: 'Cancer claims the lives of eight million men, women and children worldwide every year.

'I lost my father in 2002 and I am all too aware of the impact this disease has on a family.

'Stand Up To Cancer is a grassroots movement to raise funds for cancer research. On October 19 the fight against cancer comes to town.

'We have the power to make cancer powerless and perhaps even end it but it takes research and that requires funding.

'Cancer has taken some of the best among us and it is time for us all to stand up and fight back. I am so proud to be standing up to cancer for my dad.'

The week-long initiative - which has been established in America for four years - will culminate in a live UK TV fundraising event on Channel 4 on October 19, which will feature a host of stars urging the public to donate money and raise funds.

Comedian Alan Carr, who is hosting the event, said: 'Like so many people I have seen how destructive the big 'C' is. I've already lost two people this year to cancer and my friend was diagnosed with throat cancer and next week is having their voice box removed and won't speak again.'

Among the celebrities expected to be involved are Ricky Gervais, Peter Andre and breast cancer survivor Kylie Minogue.