Axminster charity’s first ‘cancer talk’ hailed as success

The first 'Let's Talk About Cancer' event, organised by Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support, has been hailed a success by all involved.

More than 60 people attended the charity's open talk, which was recently held at Uplyme Village Hall.

The event focused on bowel cancer, its signs, symptoms and how to nurture a healthy gut. Speakers including local GP, Dr Yvonne Hodges; consultant colorectal surgeon at Dorset County Hospital, Anjay Talwar; and nutritionist Elizabeth Bond.

Mary Kahn, founder of Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support, said: "We are delighted that so many people from the wider community attended the event.

"We are thankful to have received funding from Communities Against Cancer to support this successful event and for their endorsement of the work we do. We are very pleased to have had such dedicated and informative speakers."

The charity also draws inspiration from Dame Deborah Jones, who died last year of bowel cancer and who raised awareness and campaigned for more to talk openly about cancer and destigmatise the whole subject of poo and our bowels.

The charity asked attendees to complete a survey after the event and have received some exceptional comments. Overall attendees found the event positive and well organised.

One of the attendees commented: "My husband and I went to the talk because we wanted to be well informed about the topic. We invited our friends to join us. We were really impressed with the quality and range of the talks: the honesty and professionalism. And it was quite uplifting and accessible, considering the seriousness of the topic."

Another said: "It has been so helpful and so important to be able to talk about the symptoms and treatments available."

A third attendee commented: "Everyone involved was extremely enthusiastic, energetic, intelligent, informative, knowledgeable, caring and kind.  I left feeling energised, inspired and full of hope by the amazing people, services and events."

Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support will be arranging similar events in the future and would welcome any feedback or ideas on areas to cover. The charity is holding a skin awareness event in the summer.

Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support exists to provide help and support to anyone affected by any cancer. If anyone wants to access support or contribute directly, details of services offered and how to contact the charity are on its website www.axminsterandlymecancersupport.co.uk