Support group “open to anyone affected by cancer”

Monday 21 March 2022

Guernsey Cancer Support (GCS) wants to make sure anyone affected - directly or indirectly - by a cancer diagnosis knows the group is open to them.

The community peer group has been together for more than 12 years and offers people a place to discuss their concerns openly without judgement.

“It’s a casual group with various different people that go,” said committee member Joni-mei De Kooker.

“You’ve got family members there, colleagues, even professionals who want to know how to manage those who are affected.”

Ms De Kooker said there are not many people in the community unaffected by cancer, whether that be through a family member or a diagnosis themselves, and it is important that people know help and support is available.

Pictured: “From our own and shared experiences, we have a lot we can offer people,” said Joni-mei De Kooker (right).

“Often you can feel quite alone. You can worry about what happens next or what is available out in the community.

“[Our group] brings a lot of people together into a safe environment to share those experiences with each other.

“People at the beginning of their journey with cancer can join this peer group and share experiences and get some advice from people who have been there.”

Ms De Kooker said that going through a cancer diagnosis is a long and daunting process.

“It’s our job to help people get through that journey to the other side and make things a little easier for them," she said.

Pictured: The group meets every month to share their experiences.

Ms De Kooker joined the group after experiencing cancer within her own family, some of whom are on the Guernsey Cancer Support committee today. 

The group offers a 24/7 confidential helpline (07839 206857), home visits and personal support for people with hospital appointments.

“I think it’s important that people have somewhere to go to get information and make friends,” said Ms De Kooker.

The group meets on the third Thursday of each month, although the prevalence of covid-19 cases has led to some events being cancelled.

Ms De Kooker said that a volunteer from the group will always attend meetings at Les Cotils to make sure new members are welcomed.

You can find our more information on the group's website HERE or you can email mailto:info@guernseycancersupport.org.gg