Charities uniting to help people with cancer
JOINT WORKING MEANS SERVICES CAN EXPAND
A CHARITY started by a young mum from Leicester is celebrating its 40th birthday by expanding its services and joining with another group.
Sue Young Cancer Support – formerly known as Coping with Cancer – is working with Supporting Confidence Through Exercise, which offers a free, movement-based rehabilitation programme for breast cancer survivors.
Both charities urged cancer patients and their families to use their resources with the message that despite Covid-19 “we are open for business”.
Lindsey O’Boy, chairwoman of trustees for Sue Young Cancer Support, said: “A diagnosis of cancer is devastating at any time, but coupled with the pressure of coronavirus it’s been unthinkably tough.
“What we want to say to people is we are here, we’re open, and we have brought in every Covid measure to make sure you can use our services.”
Sue Young Cancer Support has 22 counsellors who support cancer survivors and their families, while they are having treatment and afterwards.
The charity also offers complementary therapies, such as reflexology, aromatherapy and massage.
Outreach groups in Coalville, Loughborough, Hinckley, Market Harborough, Leicester and Wanlip are on hold, but it is hoped they will restart later this year.
The charity has also announced it will be working closely with the Helping Hands Charity, in South Wigston which offers a free advice service on welfare benefits, debts, house, employment and family law.
Lindsey said: “To celebrate our 40th birthday, it’s only right we have one eye on the future.
“We have to think about how we support cancer patients and their families and joining together with Supporting Confidence Through Exercise is a marriage made in heaven.
“They have the expertise in physical exercise and movement and will be bringing that not just to breast cancer survivors through their In the Pink programme, but also to patients with other forms of cancer.
“With a potential wave of cancer diagnosis and referrals over the next few months, there has never been a better time for charities to unite.”
Michelle Scott-Worthington, cofounder of Supporting Confidence Through Exercise, said: “One in two people will develop cancer in their lifetime. It has never been more important for charities in this area to work together.”