Members of the CHILL Cancer Support Group, a free group for anyone affected by cancer, came together with leaders of the Sandville Self-Help Foundation in Porthcawl last Tuesday evening for an insightful and informative ‘What is Cancer?’ workshop, delivered by a team of leading academics, scientists and healthcare professionals. The evening was also attended by Deputy Leader of Bridgend County Council, Cllr. Jane Gebbie.
The interactive session was led by Sam Jones, Lecturer in Cancer Biology and PHD Researcher Georgia Farr, both from Cardiff University School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, who were joined by Breast Cancer Consultant Michael Rees from Aneurin Bevan Health Board.
A Selection of Images from the evening
The workshop aimed to increase awareness of the disease for those affected by cancer — whether directly or through supporting loved ones — helping them to better understand what cancer is, how the disease develops, and the treatments available – as well as providing some insights into the ground-breaking research currently taking place which is likely to revolutionise future treatment. The workshop team provided clear, accessible explanations of complex medical topics, earning praise from attendees for making a difficult subject much easier to understand – and they even brought along microscopes to offer participants a deeper understanding of the disease and how it progresses.
The event also included a Q&A session, giving group members the opportunity to ask questions and discuss their own experiences in a supportive environment – along with delicious home made cakes and refreshments provided by the Sandville Centre. Participants described the workshop as both informative and reassuring, appreciating the time and openness of the medical professionals who attended.
Sam Jones, Lecturer in Cancer Biology said:
“It was an absolute pleasure and honour for myself and the team to be part of such a fantastic event with two amazing organisations that are making a real impact in people’s lives. We are hugely grateful to both CHILL and Sandville for organising this event and the outstanding support they offer to those in need. We had a brilliant evening and am really glad we were able to help people in our own small way.
“I really believe that this sort of public engagement is an essential part of science and healthcare. Being able to share our knowledge in clear, accessible ways doesn’t just inform, it empowers and supports, connecting us more closely to the people whose lives our work is ultimately about.”
Jane Gebbie, Deputy Leader, Bridgend County Borough Council said:
“Cancer doesn’t just impact one person — it affects families, friends and communities. That’s why this workshop, delivered in partnership with the CHILL support group and an academic team from Cardiff University & Aneurin Bevan, matters so much. By demystifying how cancer develops, what treatments exist and what the future of research may bring, we offer knowledge as a source of strength. Thank you to all the academic team for explaining things so accessibly, and to the Sandville Self-Help Foundation for their generous hospitality. It was an evening of information, reassurance and real connection and of enormous value to attendees.”
Julie Grabham from CHILL Cancer Support Group said the evening had been a great success:
“All at CHILL are so grateful for Dr Sam Jones’s continued support to our group and this event exceeded all of our expectations. Being able to collaborate with The Sandville Self-Help Foundation means so much to us – our values align and it enables both groups to support more people in our community.
“Thank you to Dr Sam, Georgia and Dr Mike for giving up their time and delivering the message of What is Cancer in such a down to earth and humorous way. Personally, I learned more about cancer in a few hours, than I have done in the 3 years since my own diagnosis.
“CHILL looks forward to hosting more events with The Sandville Self-Help Foundation and continuing to build our special collaboration”
Sandra Owen BEM, Director, The Sandville Self-Help Foundation said:
“A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful academic presenters for sharing their insights and to everyone who joined us for the study evening. Your participation and support are a reminder of the power of collaboration, as Sandville Self Help Foundation and CHILL support group work hand in hand to make a difference to the lives we touch. Sandville Self Help Foundation offers physical, emotional and social support to individuals diagnosed with life limiting and life changing conditions.”
To learn more about The Sandville Self-Help Foundation and the services they offer, please visit https://www.sandville.org.uk/