Category Archives: A WELLBEING DAY

How we ran an event – and almost had to close the doors to newcomers

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WELLBEING DAY – WHY HOLD THIS?

Kensington and Chelsea LINk ran a fun event designed for cancer patients and by cancer patients.

This was probably the first time such a large event had been organised.  But why did they do this?

Several reasons:

  • Cancer Patients often complain of feeling neglected and abandoned
  • When their ‘treatment assembly line’ finishes, they can find it difficult to tie up all the loose ends, deal with side effects, find where to ask advice about benefits, etc.
  •  Often it can be difficult to difficult to  find information, especially on dealing with side effects, as these may not follow a ‘normal’ pattern
  • There are many services available, but patients don’t know how to get information about them
  • They are told to “ask your GP”, but doctors may not be able to keep up with all the latest information

So Kensington and Chelsea LINk cancer group had the idea of bringing helpful services and products together under one roof, as a Wellbeing Day.  Organised by Ijeoma Igwume, and assisted by  Simmone Hall who MCed the event, it turned out to be so popular that at one time organisers wondered if  ‘Elf ‘n Safety” would make them close the doors because so many were queuing to get in!

This is my unofficial account of how we planned the day, and what happened.  I work on the cancer group, and was delighted to see how an idea mentioned in a committee meeting became a wonderful reality.  This is my slant on the day – NOT an official account.

With many thanks for photos by Barrie Leyshon of Cancer Voices, and others.

End Result

The Event was an incredible success;  many of the visitors asked and emailed to say ‘run it again’.  People were going round with big smiles on their faces.

Speakers such as Mark Davies (who wrote ‘ Saving My A*’) had standing room only for their talks;  the companies who generously provided goodies and took stands were asking “when is the next event?”, and two of them, Urban Retreat at Harrods and The Organic Pharmacy, have already said they are going to carry on offering more services for cancer patients.

Stop Press:  Paul’s Cancer Support Centre in Battersea has just announced they are planning on running not one but two similar events, copying the format.

So K & C LINk’s trail blazer proved that there is a need to have information available for cancer patients, of the kind that medical staff are often too busy to provide.

The Event must have been interesting.  Having come to open it, the Mayor, Councillor Julie Mills, enjoyed herself so much she came back again in the evening!  This is her on the stage; also in the photo is Paula Murphy (left), in charge of the hard-working LINk team.

Conclusions

Anecdotal evidence showed that about 50% of the visitors were from the BME community – which LINk are keen to contact.

168 visitors filled out a questionnaire  – a very high proportion of those attending

4 major events are planned for cancer patients as a result of being shown what could be achieved

And as an added bonus LINk said that they picked up new members.

So if you want to run your own event go for it – and here’s some background information to help you run a Wellbeing Day

SERVICES

This web page leads you to articles about all the different companies who contributed;  who won top prizes; and background information about the companies that participated:

http://after-cancer.com/category/a-wellbeing-day/

Please feel free to copy and write to those contributing.  Many of them are only too pleased to help.  They make products that will help cancer survivors, but often the NHS doesn’t have time to try them out, evaluate them and promote.

WHO WAS INVITED?

Patients, members of support groups, nurses, therapists, physios, members of cancer charities, GP surgery staff and doctors

SPONSORS

We worked with Macmillan to target the BME community, and in return they gave us generous sponsorship.

STANDS

www.after-cancer.com/category/a-wellbeing-day/

Gives a summary of articles about the various companies that generously gave us fantastic amounts of goodies to pop into bags.

Vikki Ullah invited me to lunch afterwards and I had great fun trying on their wigs (cost £100 upwards and they accept NHS vouchers).  During lunch there was  very positive outcome in a long discussion about various initiatives that they already offer, or are hoping to offer to cancer survivors.

A really positive result!

 

COSTS

All these were generously covered by a Macmillan grant, which also provided enough funds to enable us to offer refreshments too – most welcome and lots of people commented on this.

If you can’t get sponsorship to pay for food and drink – think local supermarkets.  Firms such as Waitrose and Tesco often have a policy of helping local charities and will donate tea bags, coffee, milk and often eats as well.  Approach the local Store Manager (not the Head Office).

Just don’t forget you will need volunteers to serve, clear up and wash up!

VENUE

Aim high.  If a venue, hotel or sports centre is opening, ask if you can ‘use’ their space in return for publicity for the new venue.

Football clubs, racecourses, swimming and health centres etc. often have suitable space.

It helps if you are going to invite a personality that will give the venue  media coverage

In the States many cancer hospitals will ‘lend’ their reception space for the day.  Try your local NHS hospital. However, asking for another event, I sent long detailed emails when hospitals asked for them – only to find I didn’t even receive the courtesy of a ‘thanks but no thanks’  reply.

SPONSORSHIP

We found that Macmillan had funds to sponsor events particularly targeted at the BME community;  this was a natural for any major city such as London – so thanks to a generous grant we were able to provide door prizes, refreshments etc. for free, and didn’t have to charge stand holders.

STANDS

Since Macmillan had provided sponsorship, we didn’t have to charge companies to take part.  So instead firms such as Flexitol and Synergy were incredibly generous, and provided boxes of samples for our Goody Bags instead.  We also had representatives from Age UK, Citizens Advice Bureau and local Advice charity Nucleus, Royal Marsden Hospital, Paul’s Cancer Support Centre, Cancer Charities, Krish Shastri whose stand provided information about travel insurance (another very popular stand), Macmillan, Europa Donna, Organic Pharmacy,  etc.

Particular care was given to providing information to help the BME community;  this is a major concern in this part of London.  Talking to a BME leader, she said that although the Macmillan questionnaire said that 12% were from this sector,  anecdotal evidence suggested we got nearer 50% attendance, but many might not have had time to fill in forms.

COMMITTEES, VOLUNTEERS, WORKERS etc.

I used to run events for the Lifeboats with John Sainsbury (now Lord).  One could see he was going to go far because he got on with the work.  Two of his favourite maxims were

“the best committee is a committee of two – with one person ill”. 

And “if you have a committee, get them decide on the important issues, like the colour of the tickets;   leaving your committee of two to work out the rest of the details without discussion“.

But, we were agreed that you need a committee – a big one – if you have to sell tickets.  Luckily for us, Macmillan gave a grant which enabled us to run the event and not charge visitors.

So Ijeoma Igwana and myself communicating by email, was incredibly effective.   Aided by some special help from Gaenor Holland-Williams, who was brilliant at getting the very popular stands offering benefits advice, such as Age UK, Nucleus, etc.

HELP FROM OFFICIALDOM

This can vary: your local cancer centre might be very supportive but not have anyone to spare to help you;  another group will go out of its way to be supportive.  So, realising that these Centres were over-stretched, we asked them to distribute invitation flyers, and had one centre present which has several BME groups in its membership.

SPEAKERS

We had a separate room with a platform, ideal for various speakers.  We asked representatives of cancer charities and the Prostate Cancer session was full.  Mark Davies spoke, and promoted his book.  Local hospital provided a dietician/nutritionist whose talk was tremendously popular.  Another speaker talked about how to handle the new benefits claims, etc.  Organic Pharmacy had a very popular session;  you will probably find major pharmacy chains such as Boots or Lloyds would be happy to provide speakers.

And the session with a local dance group entertaining was tremendously popular;  just make sure the singing and dancing are contained, as otherwise those in main hall trying to talk to stall holders can’t hear themselves think!

Only time there were spare seats was in-between speakers

THERAPIES

This corner was very popular.  Local Spas will often provide mini-massages, make-overs, manicures etc. in return for the publicity they gain.  Make sure it is as quiet as possible, and away from main crowd.

CATERING

It is vitally important that guests get something, even if just a cup of tea.  You may be obliged to make use of the Venue’s catering company, in which case see if you can get a supplier to sponsor refreshments.

If you are allowed to supply catering, don’t forget you will need people to do serving, washing-up, clearing etc. People will volunteer, but you need plenty!

If you want supplies, local branches of Supermarkets such as Tescos and Waitrose have a policy of helping local charities.

If you need to contact a company, go on the Internet, find out who is their PR company – and approach them. The PR company has to provide exposure, so will love the chance of saying XXX number of people will be present and persuading the company on your behalf that it would be a good idea to donate what you need.  This can often get a better result than you approaching the company direct, unless you are friendly with one of their major executives – or you happen to work for them.

If providing food, remember some will be vegetarians, or have had cancer;  we were offered curries, but had to turn these down as patients often can’t take highly spiced food.  Bland is best!  And ensure food and contents are labelled clearly.

GOODY BAGS

Difficult to get the actual bags;  I had been promised these by a PR company, but they lost their Over-the-counter medicines account just before the event, so didn’t have any to give us.  So it was a mad scramble at the end.

But – filling these was no problem.  Companies were incredibly generous.  See

www.after-cancer.com/category/a-wellbeing-day/  for ideas.

Often it is better to approach the PR agency handling a company’s press, rather than approaching the company direct.  You find out who they are by looking on their website under Press or Media mention.

If you offer any products make sure they aren’t likely to cause controversy.  We handed out cans of a new beverage,  but I made sure this didn’t contain ‘E’ numbers and was ‘pure’.  Same thing with over-the-counter remedies;  Rohto provided samples of eye drops that help with ‘dry eye’, but I checked with an Opthalmogist who often recommends this product.

PROBLEMS?

One set back was caused by Trend-Micro, a company that had been employed by the NHS to filter out Internet spam.  They blocked every single email coming from a major ISP provider – and one happened to be my supplier!  So emails due to be sent out reminding people about the event disappeared into the ether.  However, if we had had more the doors might have had to be closed!We had an unexpected set-back:

The North West London Cancer Initiative group is the overall cancer body for our area of London.  Two weeks before our event, we get to hear they had called a massive conference for the same day, so theoretically all their 400 members would be going to this conference, instead of coming to us.  Several of this group said they were horrified, and were coming to or event as they wanted to know what patients wanted, and what was provided for them.

So much for ‘Patients are at the centre’, etc!

TIME

Don’t underestimate the time it will take to organise and confirm arrangements.

But at the end it will be incredibly worth-while.  I couldn’t believe how many lovely congratulations came our way, and at the end I was presented with a plant that is still sitting across the room.

So if you want to organise a similar event, Go For It!  Best of luck!

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Celebration for nails too!

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NAILTIQUES’ GLAMOROUS

MANICURES

When Kensington Town Hall hosted an inspirational Cancer Well-Being Event, this incorporated a mixture of information and hands on therapy sessions. This event was a celebration of life, with those attending delivering a pro life message in a big way.

As part of the relaxing therapy zone sessions, nailtiques’ mini manicures; targeting the adverse effects of intensive medication such as dry, brittle nails had people flooding to the stall, technicians suggested the perfect balance of proteins and conditioners to improve nail quality.

For over 20 years nailtiques has been providing treatments for those with problem nails caused not only by prolonged illness but also ageing and negligent care. For the majority of females visiting the stall it was about regaining their femininity, no more seeing life’s little luxuries as an indulgence but a necessity to their well-being.

Guest’s were very excited to find nailtiques samples in their goodie bags. A range of treatments were advised to them during an individual consultation and guests found samples to suit and take home.

All Formulas were recommend on a personal basis

  • Formula 1 advised to those looking to maintain a healthy nail building upon its already present strength
  • Formula 2 specially developed to improve soft, peeling and weak nails, stimulating rapid growth
  • Formula 3, getting results for hard, dry or ridged nails.

The day was a great success with nailtiques coming prepared with product and expert advice on nail care. Event organiser, Ijeoma Igwume said “I am overwhelmed by the fun that was had at the nailtiques stall. The consultations were a genuine opportunity to indulge these highly courageous individuals. It’s been a roaring success, we were busy all afternoon and it was a huge bonus to have nailtiques involved with fab treatments.”

Liz Kilpatrick, Educator and nailtiques specialist, was hard at work in her tiny corner.  The organisers wanted to offer lots of room, but the event was so popular that Liz and the other therapists were crowded in their corner, to fit everyone in.

But Liz carried on without a break, commenting, “I’m so proud that nailtiques were able to be involved; it’s such a worthwhile cause. There was a real sense of living for the here and now, when life threw them a curve ball they grabbed it with both hands.”

The timetable included humorous speeches as well as a vibrant display of African Dance- so associated with the bustling carnivals and a natural beauty perfectly setting the tone of such as inspiring event.

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Young Chelsea fan gets boost to treatment

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Ludo gets a signed football

 

 

Ludo just thought he was going for another treatment to help him recover from a massive operation.  But instead, he was left speechless as his Therapist, Lukie Hield handed him a football signed by his idols, the Chelsea Football team.

Ten-year old Ludo Forster (he says he is “nearly eleven”) was born with a Dermoid Cyst on his left temple.  This naturally worried his parents, but for the first year of his life there was the all-too familiar fobbing off with consultations, don’t worry, it’s nothing to worry about, etc.  until eventually his parents ‘blew their top’, and things started to happen.

Ludo’s journey

He had to undergo many tests and procedures, and eventually he came under the care of

Mr. Steven Wall of the Oxford Craniofacial Unit, part of the Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.  This is one of only two places in the country equipped to deal with this condition.

After a multitude of tests, Ludo’s parents were given the news that Mr. Wall intended to do an incision from ear to ear to remove the cyst.

This resulted in a scar which zigzags from ear to ear;  cut in this shape as this minimises the amount of scar that is visible when healed.

After a six-hour operation, and some very intensive treatment, Ludo has been signed off by Mr. Wall, who told him, “if there is something wrong, come and tell me.  If not, tell the world!”

 

Today

As you see from his photos, Ludo’s hair now covers the scar, and he is now fully recovered.  But recovery took a long time, and he visited his Therapist, Lukie, frequently as he suffered after-effects of the operation.

How he got his football

Chelsea Football Club generously donated a signed football in aid of the Kensington and Chelsea Cancer Wellbeing Event.  Then, a major donor came in with a big donation, on condition that major prizes were to be given away as a means of encouraging people to attend the event, not as a result of a paying for a raffle ticket.   We know that this had its effect, as there were many people who said they had come to the Event hoping to win this fantastic prize.

At the end of the event the organisers were drawing the entrance ticket numbers, and Tina from Europa Donna, the European breast cancer organisation, drew the lucky number.

Not really being a football fan, she generously handed Lukie the football, as she had heard of Lukie’s ‘star’ patient, and  thought that the football would find a very happy home with Ludo.

On the day of his latest treatment, Ludo was told to wear his Chelsea strip;  he is an avid fan, and likes any excuse to dress up in his blue outfit.  Not knowing what was in store, he arrived for his session – and was presented with the football.

As Lukie says, “his face broke into a massive smile” as he bounced around hardly able to contain his excitement.  His first action when he got home was to go on the Internet to find a crystal stand for the football, and it now has pride of place in his room.

Ludo was only the eighth person to have this particular operation;  the last person was a patient who had been flown  from the Falklands.

But the football couldn’t have gone to a happier boy.  And as the organisers of the Wellbeing Event say, “this was what the whole event was all about – to give patients a fun time”.

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Organic Pharmacy

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Local Pharmacy goes worldwide

 Sharon and Ewa ‘man’ their stand at Wellbeing Event.

In the Goody Bags was a sample Double Rose Rejuvenating Face Cream, made by the Organic Pharmacy.

About ten years ago, a local Pharmacist opened The Organic Pharmacy on King’s Road. As a mother of two, an entrepreneur and a wife she knew how important it is to strike a balance in life, and The Organic Pharmacy was “an extension of my own life and that of my family”.

The Organic Pharmacies spread slowly across London, each one a lovely white, clean and sparkling space;   a shopping haven free from chemicals found in other stores, a place where expert knowledge on well being, herbs and homeopathic remedies were readily available.

Principles were very simple, the best organic ingredients, honest expert advice, quality service, incredibly effective products and a caring environment.

In 2008 they opened their first store in Los Angeles, with same aims as the London outlets:  to bring you the best products, advice and treatments free from all the toxic ingredients commonly found in mainstream cosmetics and health products. ­From our herbal and homeopathic dispensary we custom blend herbs and homeopathic remedies to suit your needs.  Expert advice from our qualified professional team means you are able to fulfill all your health and beauty needs.

Demonstration

Staff from the Organic Pharmacy were kept busy at the Wellbeing Event, answering questions on their stand, and Ewa Macur gave a fascinating talk about the products they offer, and why it is so important to look after our skin.

Whether we suffer from breast cancer, skin allergies and sensitivities or wanted to optimise care for skin and health, the staff were giving an informed talk about the various suitable options.  They  encouraged all their  our customers to ask as many questions as they need to, “and we are there to support you every step of the way”.

“We hope that we have shown the world it is possible to choose an organic product that is beautiful to look at, luxurious to use and more effective than its synthetic counterparts without compromising your health or beauty”.

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Cancer wellbeing day a hit with companies and patients.

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Visitors queued to get in

 

For the first time in Britain, Cancer patients and carers had a complete event which was designed by them for them.

Cancer patients often complain that they are ignored – abandoned;  no-one pays attention what they want to know.  But  at the Kensington and Chelsea Cancer Wellbeing LINk event, patients and carers were going around with smiles on their faces.  At last they could find help with the ‘small’, often overooked  problems they face day-to-day.  Here they could ask questions and be given informed advice on rough skin, nausea, applying for benefits, travel insurance,  etc.

Venue was packed

By 3 pm it was standing-room only to listen to Mark Davies‘ hilarious talk ‘Saving my A*’  (I leave you to supply the missing word!) talking about Bowel Cancer.

It is certain that everyone who was laughing their heads off at his delivery, will remember his talk!

After there was a marvellous demonstration of African Dance, then Elizabeth Crisp gave a factual and very interesting talk – this time about Esophageal cancer.  and Suresh Rambaran talked about Prostate Cancer.  Both talks demonstrated  were what the event was about – telling it like it is so that we all know what to look for.

Then the Organic Pharmacy had another packed audience for their talk, with lots of questions from members – who then stayed on for the Cook and Taste demonstration;  and many of us came away with  recipe books handed giving details of easy ways of eating healthily.

 

Below, this was the Hall just before Mark Davies started his talk – and I can assure you those two seats were filled – and more – with over 200 people.  Are you in there?

Meanwhile, downstairs those queuing to get in almost couldn’t get in, there were so many people waiting.  But eventually everyone fitted in, and the event was buzzing.

Stall Holders

When the Mayor, Councillor Julie Mills, arrived, she was soon asking questions of Macmillan, who were the major sponsors of the event and had come primed with helpful leaflets – then she moved on to meet Les Girls at the Europa Donna table.  This is a European-wide charity that gets patients together with major surgeons and oncologists.   If anyone is interested in what is happening elsewhere, they have members in 44 countries.  Their meetings are a fascinating mix where we patients can genuinely quizz top medics, and get answers, and anyone interested can not only become a member for a small sum, but patients are treated equally with medical professionals.

Next door was Breast Cancer Care, who, as usual were inundated with enquiries, and next to Age Concern, Citizens Advice Bureau and Nucleus – all agencies who were ably fielding so many enquiries about the new regulations for benefits.

Companies had come laden down with free samples.  Flexitol makes Heel Balm (which we can get on prescription) and there were plenty of visitors wanting samples, along with their Lip Balm, Nail Revitaliser Gel and other goodies.

Those carers looking after bed-bound people were crowding round the Synergy stand, whose Sharon King said  “As a supplier to the NHS and healthcare at home market, the Kensington and Chelsea Cancer Wellbeing Event was a superb opportunity to meet with many different customers and better understand their needs.  We were able to demonstrate our innovative Oasis Bed Bath System, comprising of wipes and shampoo caps. This  attracted lots of interest from cancer sufferers and their families, as well as healthcare professionals, who could see the advantages of  a quick and comfortable single-step bed bath, without the soap and water”.

Literally by popular demand, Krish Shastri was there from InsureCancer.  At a planning meeting the committee were asked whom to invite, and unanimously said “someone who can tell us about fair medical travel insurance”.  It is difficult to find a company that covers all the possibilities, but Krish even works out how long it takes to transfer a casualty to the nearest hospital – and advises against some popular venues as hospitals may not be up to scratch.

Another support centre answering loads of questions was Paul’s Cancer Support Centre;  probably the oldest in Britain.  There Petra, Beverley and Dani were inundated with questions, particularly about The Healing Journey programme.  Next door was Barrie ably answering questions about Rarer Cancers, and incidentally taking photographs – those you see on these pages were his.

Meanwhile at the back of the hall was a quiet, calm oasis with therapists giving mini-tasters of therapies, including massages.  We had wanted to have a bigger section, which would certainly have been warranted for all the interest there was – but maybe next time!

I did have time for a quick chat with Liz Kirpatrick and Faye in the Nailtiques boutique;  Liz had literally saved my nails when they started crumbling into chalky dust from drug side effects.  She understands what drugs can do to nails, and can manage to trim crumbling ends so that they end up looking glamorous!

Urban Retreat and Vikki Ullah wigs were inundated with enquiries, especially as they are able to help and advise on what is best for us after treatment.  Each of the Goody Bags had a special voucher for £10 off – and some lucky person won a £500 voucher.  More about them later on.

Background Planning

The idea for the event had come out of a LINk Cancer Group meeting.  It involved inviting people and companies that provide help and support for cancer patients, to come and talk and to show off their products and services.  Ijeoma Igwume worked tirelessly getting it all together, aided by Paula Murphy, and Gaenor Holland Williams got the benefits agencies together to offer incredibly useful advice,

Patients, Carers and supporters were able to talk to support centres, benefits agencies, manufacturers and other patients under one roof  – all about the things they wanted to know, but never found whom to talk to.  And those ‘manning’ stalls said how useful it was to talk to other stallholders, as well as visitors.

More about the Raffle and Goody Bags later on – because those were a story in themselves;  everyone went away with lots of pressies, thanks to the generosity of the stall holders and many others.
 

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What was in the Goody Bag at Cancer Wellbeing Event

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Every visitor to the Cancer Wellbeing Event

got a Goody Bag !

 

 

Visitors crowding into Kensington Town Hall for the Cancer Wellbeing Day found companies had been incredibly generous with samples.  Ijeoma, Simmone and Paula in the LINk organisers’ office nearly ended up in the street, as their office filled up with the goodies that poured in for the Event.

As a patient, I had been horrified by some of the products I was given to supposedly help my peeling skin, painful eyes, splitting feet etc.  I remember the Pharmacist at the Royal Marsden shaking his head as he handed over yet another ‘approved’ but useless product, saying “I am afraid this won’t do you any good”.  And he was right.

So I was determined that at this event visitors were going to take away with them samples of all the many products that companies make for us, but we are never told about.  Some of them were developed abroad especially for cancer survivors – all of them have been used by me and my friends – and had helped us.

As a cancer survivor, I wanted nurses, doctors, carers etc. to know

  • What WE liked
  • What helped us
  • What products were really helpful, etc.

so I asked those companies that had helped me if they could let us have a few samples.  The response was overwhelming !

So here’s what was in the Goody Bag – and I hope that you find something useful that might help you handle side effects from cancer drugs.

However – please ask your CNS or doctor before you start using anything mentioned here – and then enjoy!

The bags contained a selection of the following, and if anyone wants to try something but it wasn’t in their bag – contact me at at verite@greenbee.net and I will ask the company if they can send samples.   Looking for more information?  Just key in the name into the Search window above the right hand column;  I have written more about these products in various articles when I tried them out.

DEEP FREEZE PATCHES  You can buy these patches at any good chemist, they are made by Mentholatum, and are used by just about ever major football and rugby club to treat their players when they have an injury.  They can work for us when we get pains – but if pain persists then use the Deep Heat sister product.

EQ8 is a refreshing and fruity new energy drink with a virtuous difference – it’s made from natural ingredients and is designed to give a natural energy lift. With just a nip of natural caffeine, EQ8 is the ideal way to revive and re-energise naturally and makes a great alternative to tea and coffee. Plus, EQ8 Cranberry & Apple is filled with anti-oxidants and counts as one of your five-a-day.

www.eq8energy.com  or follow EQ8 at http://www.facebook.com/eq8energy or twitter@eq8energy.

FLEXITOL

These are my unsung heroes when it comes to products!  This is an Australian company, and many of us know that cancer patients are really well looked after in Oz, particularly when it comes to products that help with drug side effects.  Their Heel Balm saved my feet when they looked like horses’  hooves,  and I even discovered that I can get this on prescription - why doesn’t anyone ever tell us?  They make a range of different skin care products, such as Lip Balm and Dry Skin cream, and other products are also available on on prescription.  Your doctor can look this up in the BNF book on their desk.

LILLIPOPS  

 

Keep a supply in your freezer for those days when drugs act up and you feel nauseous. Developed for pregnant women, someone had the bright idea that they might help cancer patients too – and now some hospitals are trialling them in their chemo wards.

 

 

LIVING NATURE

Living Nature is endorsed by Breast Cancer Network New Zealand as ‘above reproach’ for products, practices and committment to helping women’.

The company’s Philosophy is that they believe that when it comes to beauty solutions, nature has the best answers.  When developing their skin care and cosmetic products, they look at how nature does it and are inspired by the remarkable healing properties of New Zealand’s native plants. 85% of New Zealand’s native plants are not found anywhere else in the world and the bio-activity of some of these ancient species is amazing. Active Manuka Honey is nature’s miracle skin healer, Manuka Oil is a powerful skin protector – just a few of their unique New Zealand ‘Hero ingredients’.

 

 

 

 

 

ORGANIC PHARMACY

Started just ten years ago, the Organic Pharmacy has spread across London, and now has an outlet in Los Angeles.   One reason why the company is growing so rapidly is because they aim to give you as much information as possible. Whether you suffer from breast cancer, skin allergies and sensitivities or you want to optimise your skin and health, they say “an informed, honest choice is your right, we encourage all our customers to ask as many questions as they need to and we are there to support you every step of the way”.  Their website has a list of carcinogens and toxins to watch out for.  And as they say, “We hope that we have shown the world it is possible to choose an organic product that is beautiful to look at, luxurious to use and more effective than its synthetic counterparts without compromising your health or beauty.   Not only did this company supply us with lots of blister packs of their soothing day creams, but they also gave a fascinating talk about products that could help us.  www.theorganicpharmacy.com


PEACHYKEEN ORGANICS

Peachykeen Organics gave us Vouchers for 25% off any products you order online.

Their range is organic, and if  you have ‘Brillo Pad’ skin I find their Body Butter is brilliant;  although it is very oily, it sinks into your skin fast, leaving you with smooth skin.  www.peachykeenorganics.co.uk

ROHTO DRY EYE RELIEF  

Another Mentholatum product, which is incredibly soothing for when we get those nasty red eyes as side effects from some drugs.  Ask advice of your medical team before you start using this – or better still, your pharmacist – as they know all about this product.

SYNERGY

Carers looking after bed-bound people found either a Synergy  If Bed Bath pack or a Dry Shampoo pack in their bag.  There has been a lot of comment recently in the press that elderly patients are no longer given bed baths whilst in hospital (Ugggh!), but now there is no excuse – these packs don’t need bowls of water – but are used straight from the packet.  I have used the Dry Shampoo when in a hurry and my hair is really in need of TLC!  If visiting an elderly person in hospital and you suspect they aren’t being looked after – take some packs in with you!

TINTS OF NATURE

So often anyone who has coloured their hair finds that they can’t get help when undergoing  treatment.  But Tints of Nature Shampoo and Conditioner has studied what we need, and formulated products with natural and certified organic extracts for gentle but effective cleansing. Natural proteins and conditioners care for the hair, leaving it healthy and manageable. The range is free from Sodium Chloride (salt) and harsh sulphates, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.  Sample packs of  Tints of Nature Shampoo and Conditioner were included in the bags, and they have lots of fashionable  colours which can be mixed with a natural colour to cover grey hair.  www.herbuk.com

 

 

 

 

WAHANDA

Some lucky bags contained Wahanda spa gift vouchers.  Even if your bag didn’t have one, this is an incredible service that is very cancer survivor friendly.  We should all have a monthly massage during the years when we are on hormone therapy, and every week Wahanda comes up with incredible ‘money off’ offers where a full 12 hour massage can be around £20.  They also offer reflexcology, facials and other beauty treatments – and even Pilates.  http://www.wahanda.com/the-wahanda-gift-voucher/

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Event for Cancer patients – Who is there – and what Stands and Stalls

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Kensington and Chelsea

Cancer Wellbeing Event

 

at Kensington Town Hall, off Hornton Street/High Street

 

Monday, March 26th 3 pm  – 7 pm

 

For Cancer Survivors, Carers, Doctors, Nurses, Therapists etc.

 

STANDS AND STALLS CONFIRMED : 

AGE CONCERN

With information re help after Budget and other cuts

BREAST CANCER CARE

Breast  Cancer Care provides expert, up-to-date information on all aspects of breast cancer and breast health :

  •     being breast aware and the risk of breast cancer
  •     types of breast cancer and how they are diagnosed
  •     the different ways of treating breast cancer and their side effects
  •     the impact of breast cancer on your wellbeing and relationships.

All our information is produced with clinical nurse specialists and breast care nurses and is checked for accuracy and relevancy on a regular basis.  The 0808 800 6000 Helpline has a team of knowledgeable and sympathetic nurses who provide information on breast health questions, Services, Improving wellbeing sessions, Relationships and body image sessions – and someone to talk to.  www.breastcancercare.org.uk

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU

Advice on Benefits

MARK DAVIES – Inspirational and funny speaker  http://www.savingmyarse.co.uk/download.php

EUROPA DONNA  (ED), the European Breast Cancer Coalition, is an independent non-profit organisation whose members are affiliated groups from countries throughout Europe.   ED represents the interests of European women regarding breast cancer to local and national authorities as well as to institutions of the EU.

www.europadonna.org

FLEXITOL This company’s products can be obtained on NHS prescription;  well worth remembering if you suffer from rough, hard skin on your feet.

FINISHING TOUCHES

Graduates from Finishing Touches are able to offer a diverse range of treatments including cosmetic and medical tattooing for eyebrows, eyeliner, lips., Nipple and Areola complex, scar reduction, tattoo removal, skin graft improvement, skin camouflage.   Anywhere where colour is missing from the body an FT technician can help.

Finishing Touches are  the largest medical and cosmetic training and product supply company in the UK.   Their  techniques are safe, subtle and make a huge improvement to peoples’ lives.  Technicians are based throughout the UK, including Holland Park, Harley Street, Harrods Urban Retreat, etc.   To find a technician in your area, see  www.finishingtouchesgroup.com

Alternatively you can follow them on Facebook where they let you know of any reduced price treatment slots available on their training courses.

HEALTH TRAINERS are members of the local community who have been trained to support people in Kensington and Chelsea to improve their health and wellbeing.

Through free, one-to-one sessions a Health Trainer can work with someone to assess their current lifestyle and help set realistic goals in order to make healthy changes.

Health Trainers are also there to help people to make the best use of a wide range of excellent services and opportunities available across the borough, which could help to start improving their health.

The Health Trainers service is run by Westway Development Trust and commissioned by the NHS Kensington and Chelsea.

What can Health Trainers do for you?

  • Health Trainers offer support with; healthy eating, physical activity, mental & emotional well-being and stopping smoking.
  • Health Trainers offer up to six one-to-one sessions to help you achieve your goals. Sessions involve answering some questions about your health and lifestyle as well as setting health-related goals which your Health Trainer will help you achieve.
  • All sessions are free, confidential and can be accessed by anyone aged over 18 living in Kensington and Chelsea.
  • Health Trainers work from various locations across the borough. If the locations we use are not suitable for you, your Health Trainer will arrange to see you somewhere close to your home                                 healthtrainers@westway.org   020 8962 5730

INSURECANCER

Travel Insurance from Queen’s Award winning company.  They have investigated the best types of insurance for cancer companies, and also where you might – or might not – be advised to holiday.   e.g. you may be quoted a high price to holiday in the Galapagos, because it takes 14 hours to evacuate to hospital.

MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT

Macmillan provide practical, medical and financial support and push for better cancer care. Macmillan is a source of support, helping with all the things that people affected by cancer want and need. It’s not only patients who live with cancer, we also help carers, families and communities|. We guide people through the system, supporting them every step of the way. We fund nurses and other specialist health care professionals| and build cancer care centres|. But we give so much more than medical help. Macmillan helps over 900 independent cancer support groups across the UK.

People need practical support at home, so we provide anything from some precious time off for a carer, to a lift to hospital. People need emotional support, so we listen, advise and share information though our cancer support specialists, website and trained professionals|. People need financial help| to cope with the extra costs cancer can bring, so we give benefits advice, and grants for anything from heating bills to travel costs. Together we listen, we learn, we act to help people live with cancer.

Macmillan is a force for change, listening to people affected by cancer and working together to improve cancer care. People who live with cancer are experts by experience| . Together we use this knowledge to make a positive difference to the lives of people affected by cancer. This could be anything from getting a coffee machine installed in a waiting room, to bringing about changes in the law.

We fight discrimination – from challenging unfair travel costs and insurance policies to improving the national benefits system. Together we challenge the status quo, we push for change, we lead the way.   www.macmillan.org.uk

MUNRO HEALTH CO-OPERATIVE                                                                                                                                                                    is dedicated to the provision of complementary health care to people who would normally not be able to afford such treatments, as well as serving the wider community and targeting special needs.   Founded in 2002 by therapists from the Munro Centre for Complementary Health Care (founded by Lucille Munro, MBE in 1996). In addition to their work with the Co-Op, therapists also run their own practices. All therapists are fully qualified professionals in their field and carry full indemnity insurance.

Recent and current activities of the Munro Centre include:  Healthy Mind and Body Project funded by the National Lottery’s Big Lottery Fund (BLF)and South Kilburn New Deal for Communities (SKNDC) in South Kilburn (Brent) .  Volunteer sessions at the Albert Road Centre for special needs adults (Brent) .  Complementary therapies for residents of St Mungo’s Kilburn (Brent)  Complementary therapies for residents of St Mungo’s Great Guildford Street Southwark).   www.munrohealthcentre.co.uk

NAILTIQUES

Elizabeth Kirkpatrick and Laura Hughes will be on the stand to give advice on how to look after ‘cancer-suffering’ nails. For over 20 years nailtiques has been providing therapeutic hand and foot treatments for survivors. All their products contain a unique combination of natural proteins and conditioners which promote healthy nail growth and they understand what makes your nails flake, split and crumble.  Nothing fazes them!

Elizabeth has given me manicures, and believe me they can make your hands look really glam – however short the nails!  They advised me on which products  to use, and how to maintain and improve nails

AWARDED “Best Treatment for Problem Nails” for three years in a row, nailtiques Protein Formula is in InStyle magazine’s prestigious Hall of Fame

www.graftons.co.uk

NUTRITIONAL FOOD

ORGANIC PHARMACY

Our first store opened in 2002 at 169, Kings Road, and very soon we had complete synergy with our  customers many of whom are still with us today. More London stores followed, including one at 396, Kensington High Street. We still stick with our strong principles and pride ourselves on the passion that we share for quality, efficacy and above all a dedication to you.

Our aim is to bring you the best products, advice and treatments free from all the toxic ingredients commonly found in mainstream cosmetics and health products. ­From our herbal and homeopathic dispensary we custom blend herbs and homeopathic remedies to suit your needs.  Expert advice from our qualified professional team means you are able to fulfill all your health and beauty needs.

We believe that through informed choice, you the consumer should be empowered by knowledge so that you can decide what products to buy.

To this end we strive to give you as much information as possible. Whether you suffer from breast cancer, skin allergies and sensitivities or you want to optimise your skin and health, an informed, honest choice is your right, we encourage all our customers to ask as many questions as they need to and we are there to support you every step of the way.

PAUL’S CANCER SUPPORT CENTRE

This is oldest cancer support centre in Britain – probably in the World.  But it keeps up-to-date with new and innovative programmes, such as its Healing Journey.  Buses from Kensington and Chelsea stop outside the centre in Battersea, or near by: 28,  C3, 44, 170, 295, 319, 344, 345.

The centre is probably best known for for its Award winning team of Home Visiting Volunteers;  trained and supervised volunteers available in Wandsworth and nearby boroughs to visit people with cancer at home if they are housebound or find travel very difficult. The most frequently requested service is massage but we also offer befriending and some counselling.  It has a team of Cancer Champions:  locally many people are getting diagnosed with cancer at a late stage. Paul’s Cancer Support Centre is supporting the team of  volunteers locally , through which local residents run stalls at community events and talk to people about the signs and symptoms of cancer, and persuade them to go and see their GP if they have any of the possible signs.

The centre runs Outreach schemes with Asian, African and Caribbean Groups.

Paul’s Cancer Support Centre is conducting a needs assessment with community-based black and minority ethnic groups to gain an understanding of how best to improve the access these groups have to cancer screening, diagnosis and care. In partnership with some local organisations Paul’s then plans to run cancer awareness events in the community, responding to the kinds of questions and support needs that people have within those communities.

Their Coping with Cancer Stress on line course starts Wednesday 28 March at 7.30 pm and is suitable for people with only basic computer skills. Information from: www.healingjourney.org.uk/onlinecourse.html. www.paulscancersupportcentre.org.uk

 

PROSTATE CANCER ORGANISATION

RARER CANCERS STAND

Barrie and Pamela will be manning the stall on March 26.   We are supporting a number of Cancer charities and groups.
Guise and Dolls head and neck group is main one along with cancer Voices Lambeth Southwark Lewisham.
We will have leaflets on some of the rarer cancers and have contacted them with the help of  Cancer 52.  Cancer 52 represents 38 of the rarer cancers.

Barrie will also be making a photoevent and the photos will be available later for anyone who wants them.

SUPPORT STAND – with literature and information from support centres, etc.

SYNERGY HEALTH
Their innovative care at home products make life easier, and are available from Synergy Health’s Home and Freedom range, which includes continence care and personal cleansing products; home cleaning and disinfection essentials; and nursing care products.New to the product range is the Oasis Bed Bath System, which includes wipes and shampoo caps. Oasis requires no soap or water, so is kinder to the skin, quicker to use and offers many advantages to patients and carers when used in place of the traditional bed bath. Wipes can be warmed in the microwave or used at room temperature, to gently cleanse, moisturise and nourish the skin – maintaining softness.The new Home and Freedom catalogue is available online at www.synergyonlinestore.com. Orders can be made online, by post or by calling 0845 196 0625. www.synergyonlinestore.com

Visitors to the Synergy stand can take part in a draw for an iPod, kindly donated by Synergy Health.

URBAN RETREAT

Medical Tattoos

VIKKI ULLAH WIGS

 

 

New Research proves Cancer Wellbeing Event is timely

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Patients still experience

English: Tulip, 2005 Floriade, Canberra

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problems with referrals

 

 

 

 

Latest research confirms seeing a cancer specialist isn’t always the same for every cancer patient.

Some patients have longer referral waits than others.

This is one reason for the CANCER WELLBEING DAY – to be held at Kensington Town Hall (off Kensington High Street) Monday, March 26th from 3 – 7 pm.

As well as it being a fun day for cancer survivors, carers, etc.  there will also be representatives present who can point visitors to where they can get accurate information.

Latest Survey

A survey of more than 41,000 cancer patients in the United Kingdom reveals 77 %percent of patients who visited a doctor when they first experienced symptoms, were referred to a specialist after only one or two consultations.

But women, young patients, ethnic minorities, and people with less common types of cancers, such as multiple myeloma, pancreatic, stomach, and ovarian cancer, were more likely to visit a doctor two or three times before they were referred to a hospital.

The Patients’ Association will have a stand at the Wellbeing Day, and their survey  http://www.patients-association.com/   has more details.  Click on survey in middle of screen.

What’s happening

One patient, who lives just near the Kensington Town Hall, says “although I knew I was high risk for potential cancer, it took me four months of repeat visits before I had the investigation I needed”.

“The bottom line is we need to prioritize research on the diagnosis of cancer,” said Georgios Lyratzopoulos, clinical senior research associate at the University of Cambridge and lead investigator for the study.  “We’re highlighting the limitations of the cancer research model.  What has been forgotten implicitly is research to develop the better understanding of how people with cancer present – what is called ‘symptom signature.’”

The findings were a result of secondary analysis of the English National Cancer Patient Experience Survey done on cancer patients with 24 different cancers in 2010.  While the research is specific to U.K. doctors and hospitals,

Red and yellow tulips.

Lyratzopoulos said he is certain the trends he discovered will be echoed in future research conducted in the United States and beyond.

“It’s a global issue; it’s not something that only affects the UK,” Lyratzopoulos said.  “I imagine after this paper is published and it percolates to our scientific peers, there will be some emulation of this work.”

The same goes for perceptions of women and cancer risk, according to the researchers.  Comparatively, women have lower rates of cancer than men, so doctors may have a tendency to consider the possibility of cancer later than they should.

Doctors need to take patients’ concerns more seriously

“What it demonstrates is that doctors do kind of know these trends and internalize it in some generalized way,” Lyratzopoulos said.  “They pass judgment in a way that they shouldn’t.  That’s the theory anyway; we have no data for this, but that’s what we put in the paper.”

But the real problem, Lyratzopoulos said, lies in the lack of knowledge surrounding diagnosis.  For bladder cancer, women were twice as likely as men to visit their doctor three or more times before getting a hospital referral.  The researchers felt this represented the difficulty for some doctors to differentiate between symptoms of bladder cancer and bladder infection or other generic gynecological conditions.

Also, patients who had a little known cancer called multiple myeloma were 18 times more likely to require three or more pre-referral visits from their family doctor.  Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that mimics many other conditions, making it difficult for doctors to diagnose.  “To be able to pick up on the initial signs is something that should be incorporated [in cancer screenings],” said Anne Young, vice president of strategic alliances for MMRF.  “Don’t just look at the typical results, but look at protein levels.”  This technique can help to better detect multiple myeloma.

Dr. Brett Ruffo, a colorectal surgeon at Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead, NY, said this research not only highlights the need for better education in physicians – but also in patients.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/02/23/minorities-young-people-take-longer-to-diagnose-for-cancer-than-other-groups/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+foxnews%2Fhealth+(Internal+-+Health+-+Text)#ixzz1nLzQn8aV

Representatives from various cancer charities will be at the event, and although they will be there to give support to those who have already had cancer, they are well used to pointing enquirers to the right direction for informed help – even if they can’t answer a question themselves :  Prostate Cancer, Breast Cancer Care, Bowel Cancer, Better Days Cancer Support (BME), Rarer Cancers, Mouth Cancer, Royal Marsden Hospital, etc., and Mark Davies will be giving his often hilarious, but well-informed, talk on his experiences with Bowel Cancer.

 

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