Like thousands of others I have been personally touched by cancer. My Dad died from liver cancer and I lost my brother to bowel cancer.
Unlike some, though, I am in a privileged position in that I can do something about it by fighting in Parliament to help change the lives of cancer suffers and find treatments.
That's why I am so pleased to have been asked to become a patron of and support Fighting All Cancers Together, FACT, an organisation based within my constituency, providing direct help and advice for cancer patients by co-ordinating organisations who can give this support.
Local woman Joanne Smith founded the organisation following her battle with cancer which was diagnosed at the age of 34 on her daughter's second birthday. She is supported by Lesley Shaw and Judith Williamson who have also had personal experience of the disease.
By talking to other cancer patients and their families they saw the need for more opportunities for support, awareness and social interaction in a happy friendly atmosphere. This was especially true for those who were young or had young families.
FACT's next event is a Skin Cancer Awareness Event on Saturday 23rd May at FX Leisure Club on the Team Valley. Here people can find out how to stay safe in the sun and, if you are lucky, get a spray tan or bronzing makeover.
Please contact FACT on 0191 4220833 for your FREE ticket. There are also plans for a Cancer Support Awareness Event in October, and a Kids' Christmas event.
FACT has some notable supporters including consultant surgeon Kevin Clark and local TV presenter Kim Inglis but they are keen to get more people involved in their service. If you can help with office stationery, raffle prizes, if you want to volunteer, or you are from a local business and want to give your support contact Joanne on 442 0833. I wish this organisation every success.
I am also involved with a range of community organisations across the Blaydon Constituency. If you would like to contact me in relation to a local voluntary, community group or charity please feel free to write to me at my office at St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, NE21 5PT. Or by calling (0191) 414 2488 or online.
| Promoted by Paul Foy on behalf of Dave Anderson, both of St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, NE21 5PT |