We saw on the front page of your newspaper on September 20 the report that Save the Children had cancelled their fundraising gala in light of the recent protests in Hong Kong, over concerns about the safety of their guests and the performers. The situation in Hong Kong has unfortunately taken its toll on the fundraising of many non-profit organisations, including ourselves. Despite months of preparation, now – with much regret – we have also decided to postpone our annual fundraising gala, which was to have been held in November, to some time early next year. The decision was a difficult one, as it would mean a loss of substantial income this year to support our free services. The interruption is piling additional pressure on our finances, as we were already hit by an increasingly difficult fundraising environment. Numerous people are being diagnosed daily with cancer, and they turn to us regardless of the political arena, and we need to be there for them. It’s the same with everyone else in Hong Kong. We sincerely hope that our city will soon overcome the social unrest and differences, and return to stability and peace. Sally Lo, founder and chief executive, Hong Kong Cancer Fund