‘Some of our members die, but they are never forgotten’: Thatcham Cancer Support Group marks sixth anniversary milestone

A cancer support charity in Thatcham celebrated its sixth anniversary this week.

The Thatcham Cancer Support Group celebrated the milestone with a gathering in the library at the Parish Hall, attended by more than 30 members and guests.

The group, which holds weekly meetings for those affected by cancer, was founded in 2019 by Aileen Blackley and Jane Hicks – both cancer survivors.

Mrs Hicks told newburytoday about how the day went: “Heather Gassor and I had worked hard to make the room reflect the group’s aims, with photographs from over the years from fundraising events, a memory garden to boats trips.

“There were a few photos of members undergoing treatment. There was also a memory tree with photographs of the members we have lost in the six years.

“Some of our members die, but they are never forgotten. They are always with us and spoken of often.

“Our meetings, outings and activities are as much about friendship as they are about cancer and support.”

Thatcham mayor Suzanne Adamantos and deputy mayor Petra Pemberton both cut a celebratory cake made by Lee Gothard, one of the group’s members who was unable to attend.

Mrs Hicks explained that she and Mrs Blackley had not met until late October 2018, when they were introduced by Linda Lawson, a former practice manager at Thatcham Medical Practice.

Mrs Blackley was a patient at the end of her treatment while Mrs Hicks was also in remission.

At only their second meeting they decided to start their own support group to offer more support to people in the town affected by cancer.

Within weeks, a venue was secured, and the group was born. At first, no one showed up.

But gradually, people started arriving, the first being Mrs Gassor, who now runs the group with Mrs Hicks.

Mrs Hicks concluded that as much as experiences of treatments and feelings are shared, conversations are not always about cancer and its problems.

“There is always laughter,” she added.

No fees or formal membership and people can turn up to sessions as they wish.

The group meets every Thursday from 10.30am till 12pm at Thatcham Parish Hall, in Chapel Street.

For more information, please contact Mrs Gassor on 01635 865 747 or Mrs Hicks on 07887 525 058.