Blood cancer support group at Thurrock and Orsett Hospital celebrate two years of helping patients
They are hosting a barbecue at the Bombers Cafe near Orsett
A blood cancer support group is celebrating two years of supporting people with a blood cancer diagnosis by hosting a fundraising barbecue.
The group, all patients from Thurrock and Orsett Hospital, are hosting the event today (Sunday 26th July), with profits going to Homes for Heroes and the Chemotherapy Day Unit at Orsett.
Set up by Jodie Nightingill, Matron and Lead Nurse at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, the group called By Your Side began in 2024 and offers peer to peer support for people living with blood cancer.
She said: “We recognise the challenges people face when living with cancer and meet monthly at Bombers Café, located along the A128 near Orsett. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and social support through open conversation, where people can share how they cope, discuss their experiences and build friendships with others.
“We are very grateful to Bombers Cafe for kindly providing free tea and coffee for those who attend, helping to make it so welcoming.”
Chris Martin, who owns Bombers Café, spoke about why he is supporting the group. “I was approached by Jodie just over two years ago now, and her passion for the cause blew me away. Once a month the team come to the cafe and the patients who attend have impactful stories of their journeys.
“Kate, our Cafe Manager, her mum died from cancer, so when we were approached about hosting the support group, we just burst in to tears and knew it was the right cause for us to support.”