Our Cancer Cafe is providing successful peer support and guidance.

Since we launched on Monday January 13th, we are grateful for the opportunity with the response from both attendees and volunteers to support them in a variety of ways.

We provide a ‘quiet and safe space’ in a bright room with a private terrace at the Community Hub on Rye Hill – part of the Rye and Winchelsea Community Hub. Feedback received confirms our intention to provide a ‘safe environment’, ‘peer support’ and ‘guidance’ is appreciated and helpful.

The fabulous volunteers from A Touch of Gentleness provide free 20 min hand massages which every attendee absolutely love. Come and try one!

We have found that whilst our attendees will discuss their diagnosis, where they are in their treatment plan, sometimes which Doctors / Consultants / surgeons have helped them.
Amongst all this, there is humour, laughter – many being relieved that they are ‘not alone’ and that FAiR is there to guide and support and every one knows, what is discussed in the room, stays in the room.

Attendees have also benefitted from advice on Wills, Powers of Attorney (POA) and financial help provided by Christine Macnamara of Gracious Care.

Nadine Searle of ‘Calmer Self’ is now providing a 10 min meditation at the end of each session which everyone in attendance in May found enjoyable and relaxing.
Here is a recording that talks you through the process she demonstrated:

Extend this with an exaggerated sigh and shaking your hands out to literally  shake off the stress and anxiety
If you would like to know how Nadine adapted her ‘Calmer Self Method to help people who have a cancer diagnosis, please click on this link:
Nadine has also provided access to other free resources that she offer. Join her free facebook page – and join her Calmer Self Cafe
..and here is her YouTube channel. There are plenty of guided meditations and tips and coping strategies for reducing stress and anxiety plus plenty of interviews so you can find out how she helps people and why she is so passionate about it.
Jan Crook – FAiR’s Befriending Coordinator has worked as a Mental Health Counsellor for many years and is always on hand for a private conversation.

Finally, we are grateful to volunteers from the hub who provide us with a cake and our FAiR’s volunteers pour teas and coffees.
If you would like more information, a private conversation with the intention of knowing who we are before you attend, please ring: 01797 458832 or email: [email protected]

Our next Cancer Cafe is on Monday June 9th from 2-4pm. Drop in for a chat.

 

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