THOSE THREE WORDS

Six years ago,  I heard the words “you have cancer”, I didn’t really know how much those three words were going to change my life (and those around me) . It is a cliché I know to say that, but it is true.

Three months after finishing treatment I started discussions about setting up Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support, I wanted to try and help those affected by the same three words, and not have to travel to get that support.

Little did I know what was around the corner, the need and the number were so much more than I anticipated. I thought it would be a few dozen people sharing a cuppa and a chat.  It wasn’t like that.

I wanted the support to be individual, for each person to be in control about choosing what will have the biggest benefit while living with and beyond the impact of cancer.

So now today we are actively supporting over 900 local people affected by cancer, they can choose from counselling, yoga, horse riding, creative workshops, cold water swimming, Nordic walking, fermented food workshops, a sociable cuppa at drop in, aqua therapy, book a day at our breach hut, reflexology, and so much more.

Since starting ALCS £136,204 worth of support has been allocated for professional support chosen by local people to try and help them through the effects of cancer.

All of this has been made possible by a team of people who believed in me, and work with me in so many ways to make ALCS what it is today. I feel so blessed to have these people around me .

A huge thank you to all our volunteers who give their time in a variety of ways, from making a cup of tea, listening to someone, fund raising, making bags for our care packs, marketing, running events, being on our committee, being on our board of trustees, and so much more.

I am so very proud of ALCS and hope we can continue to support local people in the future who hear those three words.

Mary Kahn
8th May 2023