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Enabling quality of life Moment while living with cancer The magazine for supporters of Cancer Charity October 2018 I ISSUE 48

The brave and courageous take on our Big Battle!

Upcoming events The work we do 20 years Find out more about our successful As well as providing holistic We look back at 20 years of Vintage Fair and upcoming Tower therapies, we also have a number history at the Helen Rollason Trail and Christmas Fairs. of Support Groups where Cancer Charity. 4 you can get vital support. 6 14

Contents WELCOME 03 Newsround A very warm welcome to the Autumn edition Catch up on all the latest news of Helen Rollason Cancer Charity’s Moment from HRCC. Magazine. I hope you have enjoyed a very 04 Event updates pleasant summer; I for one can’t remember Find out more about our very such a sunny British Summer as this year's! As successful Vintage Fair, and always our fundraisers have been busy attending summer fetes, upcoming Tower Trail and giving talks to local groups and bucket collecting where they Christmas Fairs. can. Not to mention holding our own Vintage Fair, raising over £13,000 for the Charity. 06 The work we do This Summer I was very privileged to meet two inspiring supporters We hear from cancer survivor who had battled their own cancer journeys. Patricia Rouse was Patricia Rouse and you can find diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 60, survived, and out all about our Support Groups. went on to write a beautiful poetry book all to raise funds for the 08 Retail Round-up Charity (page 6) and Danny Awin went through a difficult journey Meet our charity shop superstar after losing his beloved wife Amanda to cancer. With the help and and our Head of Retail Alison support of HRCC he is now back on his feet – find out more about Matthews. Danny and his story on page 10. Danny’s HRCC Guardian Angel We have a busy event calendar still to come later this year with our 10 inaugural Tower Trail at Layer Marney Tower in November and with Hear from our client Danny Awin Christmas just around the corner, our ever popular Christmas Fair about how he was helped by at City Racecourse will be taking place. New for 2018, HRCC after losing his beloved wife. we also have another Christmas Fair at Firstsite in on 2nd 11 Bring on the Big Battle! December; find out more on pages 4 and 5. We meet some of the brave Not only do our fantastic team of counsellors participants who took on our "A total lifeline and therapists at our Support Centres inaugural Big Battle mud run. and stress relief. It is provide complementary therapies and a truly wonderful place counselling, we also have a number of 12 Hall of Fame Support Groups where you can meet We put the spotlight on and a godsend and talk to others who understand what HRCC’s wonderful for both of us." you are going through. These free groups supporters and fundraisers. Patient quote are available to all; men and women with all types of cancer at all stages – newly 14 20 years of HRCC diagnosed, throughout and post treatment. Find out Helen Rollason Cancer Charity more about the various groups on pages 6 and 7. will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2019; we look back You may have noticed an extra addition to your Moment Magazine at some of our milestones. in this edition; two books of Raffle tickets for our Winter Raffle have been included. Feel free to purchase the ones you want, and 15 Why I fundraised share the rest with friends, family, neighbours and colleagues. The Meet 15 year old Emily Wood enclosed leaflet will explain how you can purchase your tickets to who took on the Hatfield Broad be in with the chance of winning some fantastic prizes including Oak 10km road race in aid £500 cash or a Michael Kors handbag! of the Charity. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, our Support Centre staff and all of us at charity HQ, I’d like to say a huge thank you for your ongoing How to contact us support. To everyone who has fundraised, volunteered, attended one of our events or simply made a donation – thank you! I wish you Office health and happiness. Yvonne Stewart House, The Street Holly Butler , Chelmsford Marketing and Communications Coordinator CM3 2EH. Tel: 01245 380 719 [email protected] Our centres support people donations, fundraising events, living with cancer and we grants, gifts in wills and Fundraising fund research to increase through our nine shops. Tel: 01245 380 719 understanding of cancer, Moment Magazine would [email protected] leading to improvements in love to hear from you. If you treatment and prevention. Cancer Support Centres have any stories you would Tel: 01245 380 719 We receive our funding like featured, please call our Email: [email protected] from public and corporate main office on 01245 380719.

Images - Vecteezy.com Produced by Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. Registered Charity Number: 1052861.

02 Read our latest news online www.helenrollason.org.uk Newsround Rochelle House Centre Manager Lorna Ellis retires after 17 years loyal service with the Charity. Lorna played an instrumental part in developing the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity and its services and support to clients. She joined the charity in 2002, having previously had a prestigious nursing career.

She joined the charity at a period of change and when the centre opened at Rochelle House in Chelmsford, she quickly set about establishing what has become the much loved Support Centre it is today. Lorna was responsible for staffing and equipping it and ensuring the services we provided to our clients were always of the highest standards. As well as her work at the Support Centre, she would often be out and about delivering talks to clients, G.Ps and Oncologists across the region. "This is a fabulous Lorna is planning to enjoy her retirement by travelling the country and service, one that is catching up with lots of friends and family. accepting, supportive and We wish Lorna all the best in this new chapter in her life. a peaceful place. Thank you from the depths of my heart." Springfield Takeley Patient quote Christmas Bazaar Christmas Light Up When: Saturday 17th November 2018 from: 1:30pm until 4:30pm Where: Bowers Hall, Springfield Parish Centre, St Augustine’s Way, Hot off the press! Springfield, Chelmsford CM1 6GX Next year What: Homemade cakes, crafts, When: Friday 7th December 2018 we will be refreshments, tombola, raffle with from 7pm. holding a special guest – Father Christmas! Where: Takeley Silver Jubilee Hall, fundraising For more information please call Brewers End, Takeley, Essex CM22 dog event Joan Marjoram on 07870 854996, 6QJ for all our four-legged Janis Wright on 07703 413823 or What: Join our Takeley Fundraising and furry email [email protected] Group for their annual Christmas supporters Light Up where various groups from (and their Takeley come together for the owners!) at lighting up of the Christmas tree at Essex Dog the Silver Jubilee Hall. Training Centre in Brentwood. For more details please contact Anne Farr on 01279 871145 or More details will be email [email protected] announced soon!

NEW TRUSTEE Happy birthday Welcome to new trustee to our Southend Support Centre Rachel Leech who is a Solicitor which has just turned one on 27th in the Court of Protection & 1 June this year! In the past 12 Inheritance Disputes team with months we have supported Birkett Long. Trustee Opportunity 1 We are looking for people with strategic vision, independent judgement and 145 clients a willingness to give time and commitment to the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. and delivered over 1 To find out more please email Chair of Trustees Graham Hart on [email protected] or alternatively call Graham on 07939 225319. 500 treatments

Text HRCC465 to 70070 to donate £5 0302 Get in the festive spirit It’s getting closer to that time of year again! We are holding two Christmas Gift & Food Fairs this year; on 24th and 25th November we will be at Chelmsford City Racecourse, and on 2nd December we will be at Firstsite in Colchester! Our fairs are one of the region’s biggest and best Christmas shopping events with independent retailers, who combined will stock a variety of items including gifts, homeware, jewellery, art, books, toys and much more.

Alongside the shopping stands, there will be a range of popular food trucks and stalls, including The Giggly Pig Company, Spice Queen and Cheese & Pie Man, selling gastronomic treats to keep the Amazing foodies happy. Plus, there will be live entertainment for all to enjoy from Chelmsford Community Gospel Choir, Dunmow experience which Wind Band, The D’Ukes, Braintree Male Voice Choir, The helps me through my Chelmsford Guitar Orchestra and The Sound Collective.

cancer journey. Kate Alden, Helen Rollason Cancer Charity Fundraising Patient quote Manager said: “We are all getting very excited for this year’s Christmas Gift & Food Fairs! Make sure you pop in to see us behind the Castle on 2nd December. We’ve managed to round together some wonderful gift traders, which combined with the array of fantastic food sellers and live entertainment makes for a great day out for all the family.”

For tickets visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/helenrollasoncancercharity

Chelmsford City Racecourse Firstsite Colchester Off the A131, Great Leighs, Essex CM3 1QP Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester CO1 1JH Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th November Sunday 2nd December 10am – 4pm 10.30am – 4:30pm Ticket prices Tickets £5 Adults, £4 Senior Citizens, FREE for 16 and under. Entry via donation.

Christmas Wreath Cost Making Workshop £35 Saturday 1st December 2018 11am – 3pm. Ford End, Near , Essex. Cost includes all materials and a ploughmans lunch. Limited places available so to reserve your space please email [email protected]

04 www.helenrollason.org.uk E R T R WSTARTS AND A O I T FINISHES AT Join us for our very first Tower L 5 Trail at Layer Marney Tower! m i l e s

The Fundraising Team are busy organising our very first Tower Trail at Layer Marney Tower taking place on Saturday 17th November 2018. The 5 mile route will be over fields and farmland in the beautiful surrounding countryside. The walk also includes access to the Tower, the grounds and adventure playground.

Layer Marney Tower is ’s tallest Tudor gatehouse, which stands within the Essex landscape, commanding views to the River Blackwater and surrounding countryside beyond.

Dogs on leads are welcome and your ticket includes something warming to eat before you set off and a hot drink and treat upon your return.

Adults: £15.00 Children 5 and over: £8.00 Family Ticket: £38.00 (2 adults, 2 children 5 and over)

For tickets please visit www.helenrollason.org.uk or call 01245 380719. LIMITED SPACES Vintage Fair Fever Dates for your diary Tower Trail came to Cressing Temple Barns Saturday 17th November 2018 R T R E A From 10am W STARTS AND I Over 2,500 vintage and retro played their vintage instruments O FINISHES AT L T Layer Marney Tower from the fifties, and dancing from lovers rolled back the years Layer Marney, Colchester LJ’s Jive School. 5 s and dressed to impress for m i l e CO5 9US. th Helen Rollason Cancer Charity Vintage Fair on Sunday 8 Rural Ramble July, raising over £13,000 for Fundraising Coordinator Suzanne Watson said: “It was fantastic Saturday 13th April 2019 Helen Rollason Cancer to see so many From 10am Charity! people coming The Forgotten Gardens In its ninth year, the annual along to the of Easton Lodge, Easton charity event was held at Vintage Fair to Lodge, , Cressing Temple Barns near enjoy themselves Dunmow CM6 2BD. while supporting Braintree and Virgin Money showcased a our charity. The fair has been a great "The support myriad of Marathon success and looks th my husband and I vintage stalls Sunday 28 April 2019 set to have raised have received from the including From 8am Support Centres has been over £13,000, which pop up hair . greatly beneficial to us will go towards and beauty Come and support the both. Meeting and talking supporting those parlour, HRCC runners along the to others in similar affected by situations is invaluable." kitchenalia, route. Patient quote fashion, cancer in Essex, London and jewellery, pre- Ride for Helen . th loved furniture Sunday 19 May 2019 and more. Over 130 classic A huge thank you The Crix cars and motorbikes were on to our Vintage Hatfield Peverel CM3 2ET display including vehicles from Circular routes of varying Fair Volunteer lengths to choose from. the Austin 7 Club, classic Fords Photographers; www.rideforhelen.co.uk and Minis, American cars Jim Jamieson, as well as Harley Davidsons, Graham Wilson, Vintage Fair Volkswagens, Messerschmitts Vicky Pyatt Sunday 30th June 2019 and members of the and Stephanie Hundred Vintage Tractor & Stephenson. We would also like 10.30am – 4.30pm Cressing Temple Barns, Engine Club with their stationary to thank all of our visitors, stall Braintree, Essex engines. Live music was provided holders and supporters for making CM77 8PD. by rock’n’roll band Kingsmen who it such a fantastic event!”

Text HRCC465 to 70070 to donate £5 0502 The Work We Do Patricia’s poetry supports others My husband and I were out with friends on the night I found the lump; I’ve never sobered up so quickly in my life. It was 2002 and I was only 60, too young to have breast cancer, or so I thought. I’d only just retired from my City job and had so many exciting plans ahead, places we wanted to travel, time to spend with our son and daughter, to tend our beautiful garden. This wasn’t in our plan. But we visited Hartswood Hospital in Brentwood where it was confirmed to be cancer. Only people who have been diagnosed will know what a gut wrenching and terrifying feeling it is, however after the initial shock we had to set about making a new plan with our medical team about how to beat this cruel disease. We had a positive attitude and were determined to face it head on. First was a mastectomy, then I was able to have chemotherapy in the comfort of my own home with the expertise of Professor Neville Davidson watching over me. The nurses were brilliant and my daughter was with me throughout every treatment. We’d lived in Hornchurch since 1971 so had a close-knit group of friends and neighbours who were also a huge support. "It’s peaceful, The chemo had been a success; we had our lives back and I was able to plan our future again relaxing and the one without worry. Fast forward to 16 years later, I heard about the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity through my association with Professor Neville Davidson. Their free cancer support services really place you can be struck a chord with me and I immediately wanted to get involved with raising funds. open with yourself; I had always been a bit of a wordsmith from my the therapies are so Our Support Centres days working as a Secretary at Barclays Bank in helpful to the side London; writing little rhymes in birthday cards, I effects of treatment." Essex even had over 20 poems published in the Daily Patient quote Chelmsford Support Centre Mail. I enjoyed writing poetry and thought about Rochelle House, Lawn Lane, Springfield, putting together a book to be sold with all profits Chelmsford, Essex CM1 7TJ. going to the Charity. I was a little anxious that no one would buy it! Tel: 01245 463 633 However my daughter encouraged me so I set about to make it my Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm mission. Southend Support Centre A Life of Rhyme; I was so proud, I had completed my first poetry book. St Luke’s Community Centre, St Luke’s A kind gentleman at the local council offices helped me get 200 copies Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 4AB. printed, and I signed every one of them. Every single one sold raising Tel: 07876 896958 £1,150.00 for the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. My friend even sent one to her cousin in France who had lost his wife to cancer. He was so moved by Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 5.00pm my poems he donated £50. Springfield Support Hub Today I am still cancer free and count my blessings; I’m so pleased to have GenesisCare Hospital, Springfield been able to help others going through their own cancer journey. I know Cancer Centre, Lawn Lane, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 7GH. first-hand just how important support can be and the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity are a fantastic cause doing just that. Tel: 01245 463 633 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. One of the poems I wrote was about my own experience with cancer… Braintree Support Hub Blandford Medical Centre Mace Avenue, Braintree, Essex CM7 2AE Tel: 01245 463 633 Friday 12:00pm – 6:00pm Bosom Pals I’ve lost a close friend, But you did me quite proud, But it’s not quite the end, And at least you allowed, London There’s another one waiting near by, Me to nourish two babies and so, Edmonton Support Centre We grew up together, Tis with a real heavy heart, Like birds of a feather, That we have to part, North Middlesex University Hospital, And sadly I have to let go. Sterling Way, Edmonton, London N18 1QX. So it was difficult saying goodbye. Tel: 020 8887 2408 When I was small, But now a new friends turned up, To fill one empty cup, Monday to Friday 8.30am – 4.00pm It didn’t matter at all, Then puberty came and things changed, Named Prothesis would you believe, How big would I be? I look just the same, Hertfordshire With cups ‘A’ ‘B’ ‘C’ or ‘D’, And I’m back in the game, When my body was then rearranged. It’s amazing what one can achieve! Herts & Essex Hospital By Patricia Rouse © The Kitwood Suite, Cavell Drive, off Haymeads Lane, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 5JH. If you would like to purchase a copy of 'A Life of Rhyme' Tel: 01279 827 646 then please call the Fundraising Office on 01245 380719 or Monday to Friday 9.00am – 4.30pm email [email protected]

06 www.helenrollason.org.uk Helen Rollason Cancer Charity Support Groups

Helen Rollason Cancer Charity is dedicated to supporting people whose lives are touched by cancer. As well as providing holistic therapies, we also have a number of Support Groups where you can meet and talk to others who understand what you are going through. Helen Rollason Cancer Charity is working with some fantastic organisations to ensure that those touched by cancer are able to access emotional support through a variety of groups, workshops and courses.

Essex Melanoma Support Group Breast Cancer Support Group This friendly group gets people together in a welcoming The Essex Breast Cancer Support Group environment with the opportunity to share experiences. offers a relaxed and informal session for There is also a program of professional speakers who kindly anyone that has been affected, either give up their time to talk to the group. They also welcome currently or in the past, by breast cancer carers, family and friends of anyone who has been in any way. The group meets once a affected. The group meet on the last Thursday of each month at our Rochelle House Support month at the Helen Rollason Research and Development Centre in Chelmsford. Centre, at the rear of Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford. If you would like to attend the Breast If you would like to attend the Essex Melanoma Support Group please contact Cancer Support Group, please contact Anne Rayment via e-mail [email protected] our Rochelle House Support Centre on or Tracey Camburn on 01245 516599. 01245 463633.

Look Good Feel Better Pilates Sessions Look Good Feel Better offer a New to our West Essex area, held free monthly skincare and make- weekly in Roydon on Wednesday up workshop to help improve mornings. Forty-five minute the self-esteem, confidence and sessions of gentle exercise to wellbeing of those undergoing support re-building and retaining treatment for any sort of strength post treatment. The cancer. Held at GenesisCare sessions are run by Heather, who adjacent to Springfield Hospital is an experienced Pilates tutor in Chelmsford, the sessions led by and has undertaken additional trained beauty volunteers who specialist training to work with those with a cancer diagnosis. For more information please contact our Bishop's Stortford Centre on 01279 827646

Yoga and Mindfulness Sessions Weekly Yoga sessions are available to aid the recovery of the body and mind post treatment. Our new Mindfulness sessions are run by Jodie Marrable and offer one to one appointments or group sessions. These take place on Mondays and the venue for these share tips and techniques to help are the GenesisCare centre and Springfield Hospital. with eyebrow and eyelash loss If you would like to register/book for future events, please contact and changes to the skin. Look our Rochelle House Support Centre on 01245 463 633. Good Feel Better are now also offering ‘Skin Fitness’ sessions for men giving advice on skincare, shaving and grooming. Art and Craft Group For more information, or to This group meets every Friday morning from 10am to book into a Look Good Feel 12pm at our Hatfield Peverel base. You don’t have to Better/Skin Fitness session, be good at art or crafts just turn up and enjoy a friendly please contact our Rochelle chat over coffee and amaze yourself at what you have House Support Centre on created. This group is run by Maia and there is no need to pre-book. 01245 463 633. For more information please call 01245 380719.

Text HRCC465 to 70070 to donate £5 0702 Retail Round-up Can you 3hrs Calling spare Charity Shop all residents of , and Danbury. SUPERSTAR We urgently need your support! Each applying gift aid or asking the Unfortunately we have had to issue, we customers whether they would shut our charity shops early in the due to lack of volunteers. put the like to become a gift aider after spotlight donating. I always have a smile on Could you or someone you know on a retail my face; afterwards I feel happier help us out so we can stay open? and good about myself as I’m volunteer helping a good cause. Call Alison on 07984 049973 that or email Alison.matthews@ Jake Hayward goes that What have you gained from helenrollason.org.uk extra mile for the Charity. In this working in the shop? edition we are catching up with The volunteers, the manager, and Jake Hayward from our Wickford the customers have all helped me Donations in memory build my confidence; they have charity shop, who in his spare time Marilyn Allen, Jack Brown, not only helps out in the shop, but helped me realise what I can really Elaine Dove-Dixon, has also organised a fantastic do, and they all believe in me. Christine Goldsmith, fundraising event at his school. What skills do you think potential new retail volunteers need for the Lesley Jones, Your age and where you live: role? Sylvia Carol Merrells, I am 17 years old and I am from To some extent I believe no one . Grant Murphy, Robert Potts, requires skills in helping the charity Eileen Shilton, How long have you been shops as volunteering here can volunteering for Helen Rollason either help you further develop your Margaret Streather, Cancer Charity? skills, build-up on skills you don’t Sally Tebbit, Eric Tansley have or recognise you already I have been volunteering for almost a and Shirley Ann Walters. year now as I joined early November have skills. 2017. What kind of hobbies do you like Legacies Tell us a bit about your background to do in your spare time? Martin Banks and how you became a retail In my spare time I like to relax by If you’d like to find out more volunteer? either drawing or going out to take about leaving a legacy or I have lived in Basildon most pictures of new architecture making a donation in memory of of my life of which buildings or places I walk by that give a loved one, please contact the I would spend charity office on most of my "It is really good me the urge to take a photo 01245 380719 or email time indoors. I to meet other people [email protected] had been a of it. and have a chat and a very shy and What Happy 10th Birthday! nervous person cup of tea. I have got to know fundraising where I would On Saturday 29th September, our everyone and have been have you sometimes done for HRCC? Witham Charity Shop celebrated its feel out of place given a lot of support." I recently 10 year anniversary. or anxious Patient quote created and led whenever I a fundraising event would go out. for the charity at my school I went into college one day The Bromford School & Sixth Form and noticed a poster about the charity; I wanted to help and make College in Wickford, alongside my a difference. So, I picked up my close friends Harry May, Bradley phone and decided to call and Monerville and Lee Shaw. that was the beginning of where We organised a gaming my confidence grew. tournament where each Describe your average day in the participant had to pay to enter A huge thank you to all of our shop? and have a chance to win a prize. fantastic retail volunteers – pictured I try to help the Wickford charity We also sold food, drinks and other are Pat Langstaff and Gizella Porter shop as much as possible from a items, which in total raised £112.46; behind the counter. And from left customer needing to be served, much needed funds for the Helen to right are Barbara Byrne, Terri donations to be sorted and priced, Rollason Cancer Charity. Peake and Donna Sayers.

08 www.helenrollason.org.uk To nominate a retail volunteer to be the next Charity Shop Superstar, please email: [email protected] Meet our Head of Retail Alison Matthews Alison joined the HRCC team in March 2009, so What do you do to relax? we caught up with her to find out what it’s like I enjoy spending time with my to work at the charity. large family, I enjoy reading, holidays and if time will allow Tell us about your role at HRCC. I love to bake cakes. I love my job! A good sense of humour is a must. My role is many and varied with no two days the same which is Where is my nearest what makes it so interesting. I have to problem solve on HRCC charity shop? a regular basis and need to be flexible as I may need to We have charity shops in the change plans at a moments notice to assist a shop that following locations… needs help or to solve an issue. I ensure that all our shops are open and we have volunteers ready to help on a Burnham-on-Crouch daily basis. I am also responsible for recruiting and training 5 and 21 High Street, CM0 8AG. T: 01621 786 699. our new volunteers. What has been your highlight of working with Chingford HRCC so far? 23 Old Church Road, E4 6SJ. T: 020 8524 0111. My highlight so far has been getting to know the volunteers, recruiting new ones and seeing volunteers Danbury develop in their role. I really enjoy working as a team, tapping into a volunteer’s strengths to develop them and 14 Road, CM3 4QQ. T: 01245 223 246 help the charity at the same time. What does working for HRCC mean to you? Ongar I am able to use my skills from 137 High Street, CM5 9JA. T: 01277 365 800. previous roles to develop our retail shops and volunteers. Sawbridgeworth This helps us all as a team 24 Bell Street,CM21 9AN. Tel: 01279 306 062. to continue to raise much needed funds so we are able to keep supporting those with South Woodford cancer. 136 George Lane, E18 1AY. Tel: 020 8989 9897. Tell us a little bit about your background. Wickford Previously I had worked for 8 High Street, SS12 9AZ. Tel: 01268 730 423. Woolworths for 26 years until I was made redundant. I also Witham managed shops in , 72 Newland Street, CM8 1AH. Tel: 01376 503 485. Enfield , Hainault and Upminster.

Pat Hume, Support Centre Development Manager at the charity collates Pat's Stats statistics about the services we offer across Essex, Hertfordshire and London…

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81% e each week! Text HRCC465 to 70070 to donate £5 029 Patient Story Danny’s HRCC Guardian Angel I was 34 when I fell in love; her name was Amanda and I had been called out to her home as her electrics had blown. I was a builder by trade but would take on little odd jobs here and there to make ends meet. She tried to pay me at the end but I wouldn’t take any money; “buy me a bottle of scotch or let me take you out to the Cricketers pub for a drink instead” I asked playfully. She agreed to the date and the rest as they say is history!

Amanda and I were like two peas "The staff in a pod; best friends, we’d do are all very welcoming and everything together. She was my rock and our worlds revolved supportive. The house is so relaxing around each other. We moved and sitting in the lounge before in together and adopted 6 cats and after treatment is all part of the who were like our little babies; experience. Talking to other clients and life was wonderful and we were as happy as could be. staff or just sitting having ‘me time’, is all part of the therapy." It started with headaches, Patient quote Amanda had been getting them for about a Danny Awin and HRCC year but blamed the menopause. Strangely our cat Charlie had also sensed Counsellor Sylvia Young something was wrong. Subsequently she visited the doctors who took a good look into her eye; he didn’t like what he saw and immediately referred us to Southend Hospital. It was a brain tumour – treatment had to start urgently; radiation and chemotherapy. It was awful but we stayed strong together, we wouldn’t let the cancer beat us.

We first met Sylvia, a trained counsellor, at Southend Hospital. She came into our lives at just the right time when we needed to talk, to share our feelings, our fears. Sylvia then went to work at the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity Support Centre in Southend and continued to support us with free counselling throughout our cancer journey.

Meanwhile we had to stop all treatments as Amanda was getting major It is so kidney and liver problems. We didn’t give up hope but knew now it would only be a matter of time. On 2nd November 2016, Amanda was peaceful and relaxing resting in bed and I heard her gently call out to me. “I’m scared” she I do not know what I whispered. “I know” I said gripping her hand would have done without so tightly and stroking the Charity." her hair. She slipped away that night at the Patient quote age of just 49, we had been together for 23 years, my best friend had gone.

In the days after her death I spiralled into a deep depression, but just when it felt all hope was lost, Sylvia my guardian angel helped me come out the other side. It’s now been 2 years since Amanda’s death and I still think about her every day. I attend the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity Support Centre in Southend every month and Sylvia and I work on my mental health together; she has been invaluable as has the charity.

I’m always donating items to their charity shops and I even bought a washing machine for the Support Centre as the therapists were taking items home to wash! My future without Amanda is now looking so much brighter thanks to Sylvia; I’m still in touch with Amanda’s family who have helped me too. My advice to anyone going through something similar is ask for help; you are not alone and the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity will help you; I will be forever grateful to them. If this article has raised any concerns then please contact your nearest Helen Rollason Cancer Charity Support Centre. (Contact details on page 6)

10 www.helenrollason.org.uk Brave and courageous supporters take on Big Battle Mud Run!

48 brave supporters tackled the Charity's first ever Big Battle event on Saturday 29th September, which took place at The Event Village opposite the Secret Nuclear Bunker in Hatch. The 5km course tested their endurance, speed and strength, all in the name of charity. Personal trainers escorted participants around the course which saw them take on the famous Nuclear Races obstacles including the 15 lane Zip-wire into water and 20’ free- fall Deathslide. Among brave individuals making friends along the way, we also had three corporate teams; Lambert Chapman LLP, J C Designs Ltd and ProMedical Personnel Ltd; Katie Gardner, Marketing Team, Lambert Chapman LLP “Our team of intrepid accountants had a fantastic time! When we initially heard about the event, I tentatively circulated the details expecting maybe one or two brave and/or bonkers members of staff to sign up, but I was delighted when I quickly had a list of 10 eager participants! We’re supporting the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity as our charity of the year 2018/19 and so this was the first of many fundraising opportunities for Lambert Chapman LLP to be involved in.” Graham McNeill, Partner, Lambert Chapman LLP “As the newest Partner at Lambert Chapman LLP, I was keen to show my support for our Charity of the Year. While I was rounding up members of my team to sign up for the Big Battle, I was challenged to take on the course myself – an offer I later found out I could not refuse! What an incredible day. The Helen Rollason Cancer Charity means a lot to our staff as two of our colleagues here at Lambert Chapman LLP have needed to call upon their services and so we wore our blue t-shirts with pride.” Janet and Charlie representing J C Designs Ltd in Braintree were two brave individuals taking on the challenge! Janet Peacock, 63 from Braintree said “Charlie supported me throughout the run and my family came along to cheer me on. It was completely out of my comfort zone but I set myself the challenge and I was determined to complete it, and I did!” Sarah Rayner, 30 from Hutton works at ProMedical Personnel Ltd based in Brentwood; she was part of the team of 15 colleagues who took part; “As well as raising money for an invaluable charity, it was also a fantastic team building exercise for our company; we definitely bonded and helped each other throughout the run. I loved being part of the team!”

Big Battle 2018 Roll of Honour

Jamie Clayton, Owen Evans, Alex Reeves, Andrew Porcher, Neil Wade, Ashley Wade, Alan Chivers, Clementine Chivers, Gemma Chivers, Stuart Chivers, Janet Peacock, Charlie Spires, Sean Heaffey, Justina Slamaite, Arran Andrews, Ross Cook, Grant Cook, Matthew Gagie, Mickala Kemp, Graham McNeil, Josh Pachent, Ryan Pearson, Craig Weavers, Jack Webb, Ellen Viney, Emily Viney, Micheael Viney, Altin Biba, Carl Chamberlain, Hannah Clark, Dani Crispin, Jason Kalaja, Natasha Law, Alixandra Lawrence, Sarah Rayner, Osborne Tiffany, Shannon Weston, Caleb William-Taylor, Charlotte Sanjier, Sharon Sanjier, Sharon Sansom, Michelle Utz, Ian Bridgewater, Nadjie Butler, Jamie Cromer, Chris Hockley, Becky Kaser and Debbie Kittridge. with Helen Rollason Cancer Charity! 1102 Hall of Fame It has been a busy summer of fundraising for HRCC with lots of events... Essex Dog Day Essex Dog Day took place on Sunday 26th August at the Crix in Hatfield Peverel, and despite the appalling HRCC Trustee David weather conditions, Rome completed the £1,446.80 was raised RideLondon-Surrey 100 for HRCC. Dog mile cycle ride on Sunday owners, enthusiasts 29th July in 6 hours 30 and families enjoyed minutes! His sponsorship the displays, so far stands at over demonstrations, £6,000 with more to come entertainment and - congratulations Dave refreshments with our a huge achievement very own Helen Rollason Tea Tent. especially in the driving rains and 20mph winds! Open Summer fete garden Chelmsford Round Table and Ladies Circle held their very A huge thank you to first Chelmsford Summer Fete Maureen and John at Bond Street, on Saturday Calnan for holding an 4th August. HRCC staff and open garden event volunteers held a tin can in aid of the charity alley game with prizes for all raising an incredible winners. There was live music, £1,143.59 – thank you. BBQ, face painting, Punch and Judy, games, comedy and lots more to keep the kids entertained. Thank you all.

Boot sale Rotary The Fundraising Team were up bright and early at Club Mark Tey Boot sale Volunteer Barbara on Wednesday 1st and Chair of Trustees August where they were selling kindly donated Graham attended The items all in aid of the charity. A fantastic £241.70 Rotary Club of Chelmsford Mildmay and The Rotary Club of was raised from purchases – huge thanks to Chelmsford Rivermead presentation and were presented Essex Auto Repairs Ltd for allowing us to with a cheque for £3,000 from the proceeds of their Great borrow their van. Baddow Charity Races. Puppy Power A huge thank you to all of our volunteer doggies who come into the Fundraising Office and help out their owners with admin and fundraising tasks.

12 www.helenrollason.org.uk HRCC Golf Day Supporter John Ames held his 17th Summer Bazaar annual Golf Day at Brett Vale Golf A huge thank Club near Ipswich raising over you to our £6,000; his fundraising total is in Springfield excess of £160,000 since the year Fundraising 2000 – brilliant thank you. Group who recently held a Summer Bazaar which raised a huge £1,253.60 Skydive – thank you Well done to dare-devil Shannon Weston who jumped everyone. out of a plane at 10,000 feet and raised £600 for HRCC! Summer Ball Emily Thompson hosted a Summer Ball after her mum had been helped by the charity during her cancer journey; from donations "A lovely calming on the night and environment with equally ticket sales a calming and caring staff. huge £6,122.74 It has been a was raised – sanctuary for me." incredible work Patient quote thank you.

What an incredible photo – thank you Shannon. QBE Volunteers A massive thank you to the team at QBE who in the blistering heat, spent the day at our charity HQ helping sort out our financial storage, building Clay pigeon shoot shelves and organising our office ready for our A huge thank you to everyone involved in organising approaching building work! the Charity Clay Pigeon Shoot at Essex Shooting Ground in May this year in memory of Richard Dale; a fantastic £6,059.52 was raised.

Big thanks to... all of our supporters and fundraisers Please send details and pictures of your events for inclusion in our Moment Magazine to [email protected]

Text HRCC465 to 70070 to donate £5 1302 20 years of life-changing work

It was in 1999 that Helen Rollason declared her vision; "Good quality of life while coping with cancer is the most important gift a sick person can receive. It should be available to everyone." In 2019 we will be celebrating 20 years of fulfilling 1991 Helen's wish, enabling quality of life while living with cancer. Here we look back at 20 years of history The Helen Rollason Appeal was launched at the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. with the aim of raising £5million for the charity. 2002 2018 We opened our We launched our very first Rochelle House Support Centre 2013 in Chelmsford, Essex. We launched Rural our very first Ramble! Ride for Helen now in its 5th year! 2018 2003 We opened our We opened our Braintree Chingford Support Centre Charity Shop on at Blandford Old Church Medical Centre. Road. 2018 2017 We celebrate our We moved our Witham Hertfordshire Support Centre Charity Shops to the Herts & Essex Hospital in 10 year Bishop’s Stortford. 2004 anniversary We opened our London Support Centre at North Middlesex Hospital, Edmonton, London N18. 20 YEARS 2003 We opened our South 2005 Woodford We opened our first Charity Shop on Burnham George Lane. Charity Shop on the High Street. 2009 2009 We launched 2009 2008 We opened our We opened our We opened our our very first Danbury Hertfordshire 2004 Witham We opened our Vintage Fair Charity Shop on Support Centre Charity Shop on Maldon Road. Wickford Newland now in its at Charity Shop on Street. The Rivers Hospital the High Street. 9th year! in Sawbridgeworth. 2017 We opened our 2004 2010 2005 Southend We opened our We opened our Support Centre We launched Sawbridgeworth our very first Ongar at St Luke’s Community Charity Shop on Charity Shop on on Bell Street. Christmas Fair Centre, Southend. Now in its the High Street. 8th year!

We will be holding a 20 year anniversary event – more details will be announced soon so watch this space!

14 www.helenrollason.org.uk Make sure you are kept up-to-date with all the latest news, please ensure we have the correct details for you. Email your details to [email protected], or alternatively complete your details below and post to: Helen Rollason Cancer Charity, Yvonne Stewart House, Hatfield Peverel, Essex CM3 2EH.

Title...... First Name...... Surname...... House No./Name...... Street...... Town/City...... County...... Postcode......

Email...... (Contacting you by email keeps postage costs down) Telephone...... Mobile......

Preferred method of contact Email n Post n Telephone n Date of birth (optional)____ /____ /______I would like more information on: Gift Aid n Helen's Club n Social events n Fundraising events n CONTACT Volunteering in our - Shops n Support Centres n Office n Events n Data protection - I agree that any personal data relating to me may be held on computer solely for the use of the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity in carrying out its normal business on the understanding that the following Data Protection Principles are implemented: All personal data will be: 1. Obtained and processed fairly and lawfully; 2. Adequate; relevant and not excessive; 3. Accurate and up-to-date; 4. Kept no longer than necessary; 5. Available to the subject of the data upon written request and 6. Kept secure. n As a UK tax payer I would like to Gift Aid my donations of money and goods to the charity. (by ticking this box, we collect 25p per £1 you give at no extra cost to you) because it all adds up n I wish to make a ONE-OFF DONATION. Amount £...... Please make cheques payable to Helen Rollason Heal Cancer Charity. For credit card payments please call the office on 01245 380719. BANK STANDING ORDER n I wish to make A REGULAR MONTHLY DONATION. Amount £...... (Date of first payment ____ /____ /____ ) Bank name ...... Address ...... Postcode......

Account number n n n n n n n n Sort code n n n n n n

Signature ...... Date ...... DONATE Beneficiary details: Barclays Bank, Branch. Sort code: 20-72-91. Account no. 00696293. Credit: Helen Rollason Heal Cancer Charity. Text HRCC465 to 70070 to donate £5 1502  Why I fundraised for Helen Rollason Cancer Charity...

My name is Emily Wood, I am 15 years old and I How did you feel when you live in . finished the race? When I finished I was Tell us a bit about your background. elated, my mum and I have always enjoyed sport and I ride my beautiful pony friends were there and Sparkles competing in show jumping and eventing. I also they were all so proud! have a little dog called Lulu who I adore. I am currently in my GCSE year at school and want to go on to study A levels. What would you say to anyone else who is How did you hear about Helen Rollason Cancer Charity? thinking of fundraising for My mum works as a therapist for Helen Rollason Cancer the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity at Herts and Essex Hospital in Bishop’s Stortford. Charity? Why did you decide to run the 10k? To anyone wishing to The Hatfield Broad Oak 10k road race was coming up and fundraise, do it, it changes I wanted the challenge and decided to raise funds for the lives, and gives you a real charity. sense of achievement once completed. I will How did you find the race? definitely do a riding inspired fundraising event in the future. "An excellent The event was hard, it was To find out more about fundraising for the Helen an extremely hot day so I resource – compassionate Rollason Cancer Charity visit out website www. just took it steady, drank and professional staff with helenrollason.org.uk call us on 01245 380719 or email loads of water and kept [email protected] a holistic outlook towards going and managed to coping with cancer. jog the whole way. Fantastic work Emily thank you! #HRCCFamily A healing atmosphere." Patient quote Text HRCC465 to 70070 to donate £5 1502 Dear supporter You may have noticed an exciting addition to your Moment magazine! Christmas Gift Two books of raffle tickets for our Winter Raffle! Purchase the ones you want, and share the rest with friends, family, neighbours and Food Fair and workmates! Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th November 00001 00001 10am to 4pm K TIC ET Enabling quality of life while living with cancer An opportunity to do some early Christmas shopping First Name £1 P R I C E ______including homeware, jewellery, art, books, toys Surname 1st prize - £500 cash e - Michael Kors Handbag gourmet delights and much more… ______2nd priz Tel No. Sponsored by 3rd prize - Gift Hamper Chelmsford City Racecourse ______and more great prizes Please return counterfoils and any Main entrance off the A131, Great Leighs, Essex CM3 1QP unsold tickets no later than Wednesday 23 January 2019 www.helenrollason.org.uk Registered under the Gambling Act 2005 with Chelmsford City Council No. 0111. Registered charity number 1052861. For more information please call 01245 380 719 live entertainment including To enter into the draw here is what to do

Chelmsford Community 1. Fill out the stubs on the tickets you want or head to Gospel Choir our online shop www.helenrollason.org.uk/raffle 2. Decide how to pay. (See the enclosed flyer). 3. Return the tickets to us using the pre-paid envelope or drop it into any of our premises in person! 4. Wait in anticipation for the grand prize draw! If you would like more tickets please contact our Fundraising Team on 01245 380719 or - £4 FREE PARKING email: [email protected] Adults - £5 Under 16’s - FREE Concessions

2 for 1 tickets can be purchased in our shopsRegistered from charity October number 1052861 What would Christmas Gift you do with... and Food Fair Sunday 2nd December 10:30am to 4:30pm ’S C An opportunity to do some Christmas shopping EN LU L B including homeware, jewellery, art, books, toys E WIN gourmet delights and much more… H Firstsite Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester CO1 1JH SIGN UP TODAY h f t o on live entertainment provided by r j m ust £5 per ‘The Sound Collective’ and more to be confirmed Admission by donation Sign up online at www.helenrollason.org.uk Recent Winners May - R Marchal, Chelmsford, June - P Campbell-Harvey, Chelmsford For more information please call 01245 380 719 July - A Pullan, Knebworth, August - B Whitehead, Burnham-on-Crouch www.helenrollason.org.uk Registered charity number 1052861 SEPTEMBER - K Beechener,