As anyone affected by cancer knows it is not just a medical diagnosis, it also has a huge social impact.  It affects family, friends, work, finances. The two people I knew with cancer both focussed on getting home as a way of getting through treatment. While they and their families may well have wanted more support the thought of going back to hospital to get it was pretty bleak. Even though hospital is a very necessary part of the treatment it isn't always the best place to get emotional or psychological help, or information. 

The Maggie Centres, located close to existing NHS hospitals (important if you are exhausted travelling back and forth), offer that kind of information, advice and support in a relaxed, domestic (rather than clinical) atmosphere. Situated in beautifully designed buildings the Centres are a place where people can get information and meet and share with others in similar circumstances.

The Centres also offer a range of services including :  Emotional and psychological support,  Relaxation and stress management, Information, Benefits advice and Practical support.  All these services are free.   

The aim of The Maggie Centres is to provide support for people affected by cancer, their families, carers and friends; to empower them to live with, through and beyond cancer.  In order to do that each centre needs £590,000 a year. So our donations are vital.

The great news is there are now 14 Maggie Centres nationwide, two abroad and an online support service. The not so great news is I only have 3 weeks till the 20 mile hike! So while I get some bionic hips fitted and source whatever it was Lance Armstrong was taking, please could you sponsor me and help the Maggie Centres to keep going. 

Thank you

Karen x