Cancer is devastating. Treatment is tough and until you or a person close to you goes through it, you really do not understand it.
I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer on Valentine's Day 2018. I went through chemotherapy, a mastectomy and radiotherapy and I had to find my way in dealing with everything. What got me most was how emotional I was about it all and must have cried enough to fill at least a few reservoirs! However, I found support and comfort from a number of Facebook groups who would respond to a question any time, day or night and would send virtual hugs. It was then that I thought of the idea of a physical get together with real hugs and so I put the idea out on social media. The response was amazing, not just from people who would like to use the Cancer Cafe, but from people who wanted to volunteer or donate money. That Christmas I received several envelopes of money through my letter box to help set it up!
We have a community building in Nailsea, belonging to the Town Council, so I approached them to use it as our venue. It is perfect.
We had our first meeting in January 2019 with about 70 visitors coming through the door, some to wish us well but many to find support and meet others in a similar situation.
Your Cancer Cafe is now going from strength to strength. We are in the Macmillan Directory and are getting known further afield with others wanting to set up soemthing similar in their area.
We are more than happy to help if it helps others.