Marsh and Guy Carpenter & Company LLC helped patients at PALS Cancer Care get in the spirit of Cup Match with the presentation of more than 20 themed gift baskets.

This was the second year the companies took part in this initiative.

The Bermuda employees of the firms, which are operating companies of Marsh & McLennan Companies Inc. (MMC), worked together in donating items, assembling and delivering the gift baskets.

In addition to personal care items such as soaps, dental products, detergent and lotions, the baskets were tailored to meet patients' needs. Based on wish lists submitted by the patients, the baskets included specialised items like crossword books, diabetic snacks, grocery vouchers and pet food.

The employees also decorated the baskets using the colours of Somerset and St. George's cricket clubs to represent the patients' favourite teams.

"As one of the most popular Bermuda holidays, Cup Match should be enjoyed by everyone on the Island," said David Ezekiel, MMC chairman Bermuda. "We are excited to continue the tradition of bringing the celebration to those at PALS who may not be able to participate in the traditional Cup Match activities in person."

The baskets were bought from the Bermuda Society for the Blind, which promotes the welfare, education and employment of the sight-impaired or visually disabled through a special day care programme. In addition to baskets, individuals with the society make stools, trivets and hampers which are sold to the public.

Ann Smith Gordon, president and CEO of PALS said the gift baskets had provided great joy for the patients.

"Part of our mission at PALS is to not only meet the physical needs of patients but also their emotional and social needs, which is why contributions like this are so important in keeping spirits up and making our patients feel part of the community celebrations."