Wolverhampton-born MD living with cancer hopes for Black Country support as she plans 'one heck of a party' for charity
A Wolverhampton-born businesswoman is looking forward to 'one heck of a party' as part of her quest to raise £100,000 for breast cancer charities.
Jothie Walford has worked her way up from a sales role at Worcester-based home and garden design company Gtech UK to become the managing director in eight years, but in February she was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer after discovering a lump near her armpit.
She is still receiving treatment but is 'doing well' and looking forward to Gtech's Hollywood Bollywood charity ball at Stanbrook Abbey in Worcestershire on March 7.
It is part of the company's Power Through Everything campaign and will feature celebrity influencers, fire-eaters, dancing to the music of Bollywood and a three-course meal - part of the proceeds will go to Jothie's chosen charity Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven.
Jothie was born in Wolverhampton to Indian parents and worked in her father's shops and clothing company before going to university, then working in banking and applying to Gtech where she is now running the company.
Gtech is named after founder Nick Grey, who started the company in 2001 by launching the world's first cordless power sweeper - it is estimated the company, if floated, would be worth £50m.
Jothie said: "I have had a good Christmas where I have been working as it is a busy time, and though I am still having treatment I am able to work around it. The company has been great around it and time off has not been a problem when needed, it is very much a modern and flexible way of working at Gtech.
"But I am looking forward to the new year and the fundraiser which is going to be a wonderful occasion and will feature something for everyone from Bollywood dancers to a top DJ, a classical pianist and all in the wonderful surroundings of Stanbrook Abbey.
"I am hoping family from Wolverhampton will be able to make it and that some Black Country companies will get involved in sponsorship or have a table, my roots are in the West Midlands and you never forget where you come from."
Nick Grey said: "This is a brilliant opportunity for people to come together for this really special event, give back and make a real difference."
Tickets for the ball, priced at £100 each for tables of 10, are available as is sponsorship of the event - learn more at www.gtech.co.uk/hollywood-bollywood-gtech-charity-event.
