Lady McAdden Breast Cancer Trust is dedicated to supporting you with the early detection of breast cancer through advice, education, and breast awareness. We help people how to be breast aware by teaching what changes to look and feel for and we also discuss ways to reduce your breast cancer risk. We do this because, sadly, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer for women in the UK.

Of course, we hope you are never diagnosed with breast cancer but if you are, it can be difficult to know where to go for help and support. Our nurses are on hand to help answer any questions you may have and to signpost you to other organisations who can also support you on your journey.

Two of these organisations, for those who live in or around Leigh on Sea – where we are now based – are Bosom Pals and Beat It-Cancer Exercise Rehab.

Bosom Pals is a support group open to men and women who have or have had a diagnosis of breast cancer in the past. New members are welcome to bring a friend or relative for the first meeting, however it is a very welcoming group and friendships are made quickly with existing members. Bosom Pals meet on the third Wednesday of every month at The Stables, Chalkwell Park Drive, Leigh on Sea, SS9 1LX. The meetings start at 7pm and generally finish around 9,30pm.

They also offer online support via their very active Facebook group ‘Bosom Pals Southend Private Group’, which has over 300 members. This is a private group for those who have or have had breast cancer and offers a safe space to find support from other people who understand what you are going through. Their public Facebook page Bosom Pals Southend Support Page is open to anyone who may wish to visit it.

Bosom Pals is run by Debbie Cambrey, Nikki Edermaniger, Vicky Nash and Lynne Seaby. Nikki and Debbie can be contacted on the following numbers Nikki 07981 541151 Debbie 07725 349055. They are very happy to chat to people about their group.

Beat It Cancer Exercise Rehab is an exercise classed specifically designed for those diagnosed with cancer. It is run by rehab exercise specialist, Ondie Woods. The classes are for people at any stage of any cancer and offer support with a fun, positive, caring, uplifting graded class and social support group. The award winning exercise rehab and social class has been running for nearly 10 years. The group isn’t about numbers, it offers a very personal class where each member truly matters. Ondie says ‘Together, we can help you improve strength, range of movement, energy levels and mental wellbeing with encouragement and support from fellow members who understand exactly what you are experiencing.

The classes are held every Thursday at 11.30am-12.30pm at Leigh Community Centre, 71-73 Elm Road, Leigh on sea, SS91SP. They are £6 per session which is paid weekly. It is important to contact Ondie before attending a class to arrange a consultation so that she can fully understand your needs.

So, whether you just want to become more aware about breast cancer, need support as you tackle treatment, would like to discuss your feelings after recovery or want to regain your physical and mental wellbeing, please get in touch with us. Please don’t go it alone, we are all here to help.