Together Magazine 2010

2010 Issue 5

In this issue: Opening of the Wohl Wing Tracy-Ann Oberman at Chai Cancer Genetics – The Jewish Perspective 20 years of Chai – Susan Shipman Q&As with Sir Ralph & Lady Zahava Kohn Growth of our Services Appealing to the Appetite 20 years of cancer support in the community

Message from the Chairman Louise Hager Welcome to a bumper issue of ‘Together’ in what is a very special year for Chai Cancer Care. Twenty years ago Chai was founded by two remarkable women, Susan Shipman and my dear mother Frances Winegarten z”l. Whilst they always knew of the need in the community, they could not have foreseen how Chai would develop in such a relatively short space of time. We continue to hold firm to our commitment to provide a high quality, accessible, confidential and professional service – always delivered with empathy and warmth.

This year has been significant for Chai for so many reasons. We have opened four further satellite services (Glasgow, South Manchester, Hackney and Southend) to add to those successfully established in Redbridge, South London and North Manchester.

Our Hendon Centre continues to be our largest service provider, as well as our Head Office.

To enable us to meet our clients’ needs and to expand our services, we recently opened the purpose built Wohl Wing in early summer. Our Home Support Service is vital to our clients who cannot get to any of our centres. This service ensures that they can benefit from our one-to-one therapies, counselling and advice sessions in their own homes. On Pages 16 & 17 we demonstrate how much demand has grown in all areas of our work.

I hope that you will enjoy the diversity of our articles and I am grateful to all contributors. We are, as always, indebted to our Medical Patrons who keep us up to date with the latest developments in the cancer world.

Our heartfelt thanks go to our many loyal friends and supporters. As we do not receive any statutory funding, your generosity has enabled us to keep pace and meet the ever growing demand of all those who turn to us.

From all of us at Chai we hope you enjoy reading ‘Together’.

President

Trustees

Medical Patrons

Mr Amir Kaisary

The Rt. Hon. Lord Young

Louise Hager

Prof Michael Baum

Prof Jonathan Ledermann

of Graffham

Lady Kalms MBE

Prof Michael Brada

Prof Gordon McVie

Simon Kanter

Mr Michael Douek

Dr Jeremy Nathan

Founder Presidents

Susan Shipman

Prof Andrew Eder

Dr Jane Neerkin

Susan Shipman

Philip Weinstein

Prof Rosalind Eeles

Prof Gordon Rustin

Frances Winegarten z”l

Lord Young

Mr Daren Francis

Prof Karol Sikora

Mr Jerry Gilmore

Prof Albert Singer

Chairman

Honorary Patrons

Prof Anthony Goldstone CBE

Prof Stephen Spiro

Louise Hager

Lord Janner of Braunstone QC

Prof Daniel Hochhauser

Prof Irving Taylor

Maureen Lipman CBE

Prof Ian Jacobs

Dr Adrian Tookman

Chief Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks

Prof Gordon Jayson

Chief Executive Elaine Kerr

Cover image: Tracy-Ann Oberman in the Garden Room at Chai photographed by Jeremy Coleman.

Contents My Personal Relections over the past 20 years: Susan Shipman

4-8

Major Milestones

9

Immune Boosting Foods: Lana Pinshaw

10 - 11

Breast Cancer: Prof. Michael Baum & Mr Michael Douek

12 - 13

14 - 15

Growth of our Services

16 - 17

Group Activities

18

One Family’s Story

19

Colorectal Cancer: Mr Daren Francis

20 - 21

Opening of the Wohl Wing

22 - 23

Q&A with Sir Ralph Kohn FRS and Lady Zahava Kohn

24 - 26

A Charity that’s my Cup of Chai: Tracy-Ann Oberman

27

Cancer Genetics – The Jewish Perspective: Dr Ian Ellis

28 - 31

Chai Promise

32 - 33

Dina’s Story: Vicky Brown

34

Lady Jakobovits z’l

35

Lighten the Load – One Stress you can relieve! Vicky Brown

36 - 38

Advice and Advocacy at Chai

39

A Year in the Life of Chai

40 - 41

The Effects of Cancer on Relationships & Intimacy

42

The Natalie Shipman Memorial Lectures

43

Appealing to the Appetite: Healthy Eating Recipes

44 - 45

Year in Fundraising – 2010

46 - 47

Spa Day

This edition of ogether is generously sponsored by The Dorset Foundation

My Personal Reflections over the past 20 years: Susan Shipman – Founder President It’s hard to believe that it is twenty one years ago since I

over the years, I had been touched by the number of

received the phone call from Frances Winegarten z’l

parents in the Oncology Department who were unable

that was to be the beginning of the cancer support

to cope emotionally.

organisation that is known today as Chai Lifeline Cancer Care.

Frances at this time was in remission from two bouts of a rare type of cancer that had been very difficult to treat.

She had endured high doses of radiotherapy and

“Amelie... insisted that Frances meet me – and the rest is history!”

chemotherapy that was experimental to her problem, as there were no known proven drugs to treat her

It was fortuitous that Lady Amelie Jakobovits z’l was

particular form of cancer.

visiting Frances when she received a call from a friend of mine. Through this friend I had heard of the work Frances was doing with cancer patients. I had asked her to tell Frances that if ever she needed any help with children who had cancer she should call me. On hearing my name, Amelie who had been a close friend since 1986 when we had first met in GOSH when Natalie had her second operation, insisted that Frances meet me – and the rest is history!

We first met in Frances’s flat on a very hot evening in June 1989. Despite the difference in our ages it was a meeting of two kindred spirits who had both been

Susan Shipman & Frances Winegarten z’l

touched, albeit differently, by a terrible disease and who had recognised the importance of emotional

Frances was a lady blessed with a strong character

support in the healing process. At this time the

and positive attitude; she was determined to survive

treatment for cancer was to cut it out, burn it, or poison

and so, in addition to the conventional treatments

it – the emotional effects of being diagnosed with a life

prescribed by her physicians, she took her health into

threatening illness for both the patient and their family

her own hands by changing her diet and her lifestyle.

were not considered.

Hearing of her recovery, many cancer patients sought Frances’s advice on diet and benefitted from her

That night Frances convinced me of the importance of

empathetic support.

starting a support group for Jewish cancer patients. She had felt completely isolated when attending a non-

In contrast, I was the mother of a child who had been

Jewish support group when she was ill, due to the many

diagnosed with cancer when she was two years old. At

and diverse cultural difference between Jews and non-

this time Natalie z’l was six and a half and had had in

Jews. It is also well documented that in moments of

the four years since diagnosis, three separate rare forms

crisis, regardless of levels of observance, people have a

of cancer. She had survived three major operations

need to go back to their roots where they feel

and meningitis and endured gruelling radiotherapy

comfortable and secure. And so, our intention that

and chemotherapy.

night was to start a telephone support helpline. Neither of us could have imagined then that twenty years later,

4

At that time I was in the process of starting a support

that helpline would have become one of the foremost

group at Great Ormond Street Hospital for the parents

Cancer Support Organisations in the United Kingdom.

of children with cancer. On my many visits with Natalie

By December of 1989 we had formed a committee and

20 years of cancer support in the community

in March 1990, Chai Lifeline was granted charitable status and Frances and I were able to set up a telephone helpline that was run from both our homes.

The first thing we did was to write a letter to the Jewish Chronicle and the Jewish Tribune to advise the community of the service we were offering – but no one called! It wasn’t until May that year, when one of the members of the original committee managed to get the JC to print an article about us, that the phone started to ring - not with clients seeking support, but Aaron & Frances Winegarten z’l & Susan Shipman, Philip Shipman z’l

from recovered cancer patients and their family members, volunteering to help.

Sadly, the same weekend that we were interviewed by

In 1990 there was very little information about cancer

the JC, Natalie relapsed and we were told by Great

available to the general public. The subject was rarely

Ormond Street that although they couldn’t identify the

in the media and there was no internet. Frances and I

problem, she probably only had three months to live. I

decided that the best way to take away the fear was

vividly remember sitting in my garden the following

through education and so we decided to hold a public

week with Frances and her daughter Louise Hager,

lecture.

discussing Chai Lifeline’s future and why people were not phoning for help and what we could do about it.

At that time the charity had no money, and so my husband Philip z’l and I, together with Frances and her

“At that time... the word cancer was rarely uttered in the Jewish community.”

husband Aaron z’l, jointly gave £1000 pounds to pay for the advertisements for the lecture and hire of the hall – it was the best £500 we ever invested!

We held our first public lecture on 11th September 1990 in Norrice Lea Synagogue Hall. It was the first time that a lecture about cancer was to be given by eminent cancer specialists to a lay audience and Frances and I were petrified that nobody would turn up. The hall had room for 400 chairs theatre style and we didn’t want it to look empty. We were very tempted to hire “rent a crowd” but instead decided to put out 200 chairs with a further 200 stacked at the back just in case. To our amazement, 400 people crowded into the hall that night and a further 100 were turned away at the door!

The lecture was a huge success and the feedback was very positive. At last we started to get phone calls from people wanting help as well as from those wanting to volunteer.

Natalie Shipman z’l March 1990

That same week Natalie, who seemed to have recovered from her relapse in May, was diagnosed with the return of her brain tumour. Great Ormond Street’s At that time cancer was a taboo subject that was never

prediction in May was sadly correct and Natalie lost her

discussed. Indeed the word cancer was rarely uttered in

brave fight against cancer in October 1990, one month

the Jewish community to describe the disease; instead

before her eighth birthday.

expressions like “the big C”, “the illness”, “you know what” or “yenna machala – that disease” were used.

I was bereft, but at the same time determined that

We realised that if we were to be able to help the

Natalie’s short life was not to have been in vain. It was

community’s cancer patients, we first had to take away

her wish during the last few months of her life to help me

their fear of cancer.

and “Aunty” Frances with Chai Lifeline when she got 20 years of cancer support in the community

5

It wasn’t long before we needed to have a proper base and so in 1992 we opened our first office in Heather House in Golders Green. We had for some time been providing trained volunteers all of whom had experienced cancer - either themselves or through a family member - as befrienders to support our clients.

Now that we had an office, we were able to man the helpline with trained volunteers as well.

older – instead she has been the inspiration behind Chai for the past twenty years.

We decided to organise three Natalie Shipman Memorial Lectures for the following year to be held in January, February and March. We booked the hall, arranged advertisements for the media and designed flyers to be circulated through kosher shops, Shuls etc.

The problem was that we had no money to pay for it all!

Frances Winegarten z’l, Susan Shipman & Louise Hager

Lady J, who had continued to be of tremendous help and encouragement to Frances and I since being our ‘Shadchan’, was adamant that we shouldn’t turn to the Community for financial help. This was because the first

In July 1993 we held a Breast Cancer Awareness lecture

Gulf War had just begun and all available money was

in Stamford Hill aimed at providing the religious

needed for Israel. Fortunately we were given the All

community in that area with vital information about

Aboard Shop in Golders Green for two weeks to raise

breast cancer. Over 800 women attended and

money. With the help of a fantastic team of volunteers,

afterwards, through feedback from breast cancer

who managed to fill the shop with very saleable goods

specialists, we discovered that at least 7 women who

for us to sell, we raised over £2500, a staggering amount

had attended the lecture had found lumps and sought

at that time for a charity shop!

medical help.

“Other minority groups came to us for advice as to how to start cancer support groups in their own communities.”

The impact of this lecture was amazing. Eminent cancer specialists started to approach us asking to speak at our lectures! We continued to gain credibility in the medical profession and soon had an impressive list of Medical Patrons. We formed our Medical Advisory Panel, which meets regularly at Chai and continues to support and advise us to this day.

Despite our continuing growth we were getting very

From then onwards we never looked back. We have

few calls to the helpline. In fact most of the calls for help

always felt the Alm-ghty’s guiding hand and in

were being made to the office number. We reached

response to the ever growing need Chai Lifeline grew

the conclusion that people found it hard to ask for help

at an amazing pace. For many years after, however,

especially over the telephone and needed another

we continued to get criticism as to why, when cancer

way to access our services. We decided the answer

knows no boundaries, was there the need for a Jewish

was to open a Cancer Support Centre, a physical

cancer support group. Amazingly this criticism came

place where people could just drop in, a place where

from the Jewish, not the wider community. The non-

we could offer a variety of additional services.

Jewish Community gave us their whole hearted support

6

and other minority groups came to us for advice

In 1994 thanks to the invaluable help of our Trustee

as to how to start cancer support groups in their

Ernest Weinstein z’l, who found the premises and

own communities.

supervised the construction, we opened the Chai

20 years of cancer support in the community

Lifeline Centre for Health in Norwood House, later to

Chai was steadily gaining a reputation for excellence

become Shield House, in Hendon. The capital costs of the

and professionalism. Frances and I were invited to attend

move were high and the increase in services meant

several Government Forums on cancer and we were also

employing more professional staff and higher running

invited by the EU to Brussels as part of a British Delegation.

costs. We are indebted to the Trustees of the Kennedy

People from throughout the UK who wanted to start

Leigh Foundation, the first major trust to give us financial

cancer support groups contacted us for advice. In

support, for recognising the potential in our fledgling

addition Chai was invited to take part in The North

organisation and for their continuous support for the past

London Cancer Network, a network comprising the five

twenty years.

major cancer hospitals in North West London.

The Centre provided the space for us to introduce many

In November 1997, my husband Philip z’l was diagnosed

new services. Professional counselling, well man and well

with an inoperable brain tumour and died after only two

woman screening, complementary therapies, laughter

months in January 1998. This was a bitter blow, especially

clinic (the first of its kind in the U.K.), genetic counselling,

coming only eight years after losing Natalie. I must admit

spiritual counselling, “Ask the Expert” lectures and many

that there were times when I found the responsibility of

more. In addition we were able to bring our volunteer

running Chai and being surrounded by cancer on a daily

training and supervision in house. Most importantly,

basis difficult to bear. But knowing that so many people

however, people in need of emotional support were able

were relying on Chai ‘s support gave me the strength to

to access that help through “the back door”. They no

carry on.

longer needed to place a phone call to ask for support; instead they called to make an appointment for

There is no doubt that the establishment of Chai Lifeline

aromatherapy or reflexology and this was their

and its tremendous success was not achieved without

comfortable way to start benefitting from Chai’s services,

personal cost to both Frances and me. Frances was

often leading to the use of counselling later.

involved with Chai on a daily basis at a time in her life

Frances Winegarten z’l, Susan Shipman, Ben Shipman, Philip Shipman z’l, Mark Shipman, Jane Shipman, Stella Weinstein, Ernest Weinstein z’l

20 years of cancer support in the community

7

increasing demand. We also have satellite centres in Redbridge, Southend, South London, North and South Manchester, Glasgow and Hackney with plans to open on the South Coast in the near future.

As I reflect upon Chai’s achievements over the past twenty years I am so very proud to have been part of the establishment and growth of such a wonderful organisation.

I am only sorry that Natalie, Frances, Philip, Aaron, Ernest and Lady J are no longer with us to celebrate this special milestone.

Aaron Winegarten z’l, HRH Duke of Kent & Philip Weinstein

when her husband was retired and they should have been enjoying quality time together and with their family.

“I am so very proud to have been a part of... such a wonderful organisation.”

As for me, my involvement was also given at great cost to my family, especially my children, who lost me to Chai at times when they needed me the most, especially after the death of their father.

By 2002 we were running out of space in Norwood House and needed to move. I am delighted that I was able to facilitate the purchase of 142 – 146 Great North Way in Hendon, before making Aliyah to Israel on my remarriage in December 2002. Since then Chai Cancer Care has gone from strength to strength in very capable hands.

Finding it impossible to remain involved on a daily basis from so far away, I eventually resigned and handed over the reigns to my Co-Chairman Louise Hager. Louise continues to run the organisation with the same passion and dedication that her mother and I had, with the addition of her own tremendous flair and warmth. She is ably assisted by Chief Executive Elaine Kerr, whose professionalism and commitment has enabled our vision from so long ago to become a reality.

In addition, Chai is fortunate to have the expert

Hachnosas sefer torah in Bushey Shul on 16th Sept 1990

backing of its President Lord Young and my co-trustees

8

Lady Pamela Kalms MBE, Philip Weinstein and Simon

I sincerely hope that the next twenty years will bring

Kanter, who together bring to the organisation

an increase in the cures for cancer and that eventually

their years of communal knowledge and wide

one day there will be no need for Chai Cancer

ranging experience.

Care’s services.

In June this year we opened the Wohl Wing which gives

Susan Shipman

us much needed additional space to meet the steadily

Founder President and Trustee

20 years of cancer support in the community

Major Milestones June 1989 December 1989 March 1990

May 1990

September 1990

October 1990 January 1991 February 1991 March 1991 June 1992 July 1993 June 1994

May 1996

January 1998 December 1998 June 2001 November 2001 October 2002 October 2002 October 2002 November 2002 October 2003 February 2004

July 2006 February 2006

May 2007 July 2008 October 2008 May 2009 May 2010 May 2010 June 2010 July 2010 August 2010 September 2010

Susan Shipman and Frances Winegarten meet First meeting of the newly formed Committee Charitable status granted to Chai Lifeline Start of support helpline in homes of SS & FW Letter advising the Community of the new service appears in the JC Article appears in the JC about Chai Lifeline & attracts calls from volunteers First public lecture held in Norrice Lea Synagogue attracts 500 people of whom 100 were unable to gain entry Susan Shipman’s daughter Natalie passes away from a brain tumour First Natalie Shipman Memorial Lecture Second Natalie Shipman Memorial Lecture Third Natalie Shipman Memorial Lecture Opening of office in Heather House, Golders Green Breast Cancer Awareness Lecture in Stamford Hill attracts 800 Women Opening of Cancer Support Centre in Norwood House, Hendon Start of counselling and complementary therapy clinics First fundraising dinner at the home of Sir Sydney and Lady Rosa Lipworth CBE Founder Trustee Philip Shipman passes away from brain tumour Louise Hager becomes a Trustee 10th Anniversary Dinner at Grosvenor House Hotel Change of name from Chai Lifeline to Chai Lifeline Cancer Care Frances Winegarten becomes Founder President Louise Hager becomes Co-Chairman Trustee Ernest Weinstein passes away Purchase of 142-146 Great North Way Move to 142 Great North Way Official opening of The Chai Cancer Care Centre for Health by His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent Lord Young becomes President Founder President Frances Winegarten passes away at 84 years of a heart attack Opening of the first satellite service in Redbridge Opening of satellite service in South London Founder Trustee Aaron Winegarten passes away Opening of satellite service in North Manchester Opening of satellite service in Glasgow Honorary Patron Amelie Jakobovits passes away Opening of the Wohl Wing in Hendon Opening of satellite service in Hackney Opening of satellite service in South Manchester Opening of satellite service in Southend

20 years of cancer support in the community

9

Immune Boosting Foods: Lana Pinshaw

The immune system is critically important in fighting illness including cancer. Individual cancer cells can arise in all of us from time to time. If your immune system is vigilant, it recognises and destroys cancer cells before they can take hold, so strengthening your immune system can be helpful in cancer prevention and survival.

Like soldiers anywhere, your immune cells fight more effectively when they are well nourished.

Certain types of food stand out in the nutritional crowd because they have special properties that make them more beneficial to our health.

The nutrients contained within these “superfoods” can assist with many of the body’s natural functions such as digestion, boosting the immune system, strengthening bones.

Antioxidants is the term used to describe the group of vitamins, minerals and certain phytochemicals found in foods that help protect the body from the damaging effects of Free Radical damage.

Free Radicals can be naturally created by the body or they can be produced by toxins like tobacco, pollution, radiation from sunlight and radioactive material. These toxins can be “carcinogenic”

meaning they can alter or damage cells in the body which could lead to cancer development.

Antioxidants are able to protect cells and can help prevent free radicals from forming thereby helping to prevent cell damage.

Among the list of the nutrients there are some main “superfoods” which are good to include in your diet, red and orange peppers, kiwi fruit, brazil nuts, tomatoes, broccoli, onions, sweet potatoes, carrots, mangoes, strawberries, cabbage, watercress, brussel sprouts, virgin olive oil, sunflower seeds, wholegrain bread, garlic and oranges.

Including more of the superfoods into your diet instead of red meat, fatty and sugary foods will help to regulate and maintain a healthy weight which is another important factor in reducing your risk of getting cancer.

By eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of plant foods we stand a much better chance of getting all the nutrients we need for optimum health.

Immune Boosting Recipes Mango-Papaya Smoothie

Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges

(serves 4)

(serves 4)

2 cups plain low fat yoghurt

2 medium sized sweet potatoes - cut into wedges

1 mango, peeled, pitted, and coarsely chopped

1/8 tsp cinnamon

1 papaya, peeled, seeded and coarsely chopped

¼ tsp season salt

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice plus 4 lime slices

¼ tsp ground cumin

for garnish

1/8 tsp pepper

3 tablespoons honey ¼ teaspoon almond extract 1 cup ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Blend in another ½ cup ice cubes if desired to thin the smoothie mixture to desired consistency. Divide the mixture among 4 chilled large glasses and garnish each smoothie with a lemon slice.

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20 years of cancer support in the community

¼ tsp garlic powder Preheat oven to 200ºC Combine all ingredients in a plastic bag. Seal and shake. Place sweet potato wedges on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray(do not overlap). Bake at 200ºC for 20 minutes or until very tender, flipping potatoes once during cooking.

Antioxidant

Good Food Sources

Vitamin C

Citrus fruits, berries, dark green vegetables, red and yellow peppers, tomatoes, pineapple, cantaloupe, mangos, papaya and guava

Vitamin E

Vegetable oils, nuts and nut butters, seeds, whole grains, wheat, wheat germ, brown rice, oatmeal, soybeans, sweet potatoes, legumes and dark leafy green vegetables

Selenium

Brazil nuts, brewer’s yeast, oatmeal, brown rice, chicken, eggs, dairy products, garlic, molasses, onions, salmon, seafood, tuna, wheat germ, whole grains, most vegetables

Beta Carotene

Variety of dark orange, red, yellow and green vegetables and fruits such as broccoli, kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots, red and yellow peppers, apricots, cantaloupe and mangoes

Phytochemical

Food Sources

Allium

Garlic, leeks, chives, onions

Apigenin

Chinese cabbage, bell pepper, garlic, French peas, guava, celery

Catechins

Green tea, black tea, wine, coffee, apples

Coumestans

Clover, alfalfa sprouts

Soflavones

Tofu, soybeans, tempeh, soymilk, textured vegetable protein

Isothiocyanates

Broccoli, cauliflower, kale, turnips, collards, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kohlrabi, rutabaga, Chinese cabbage, bok choy, horseradish, radish, watercress

Lignins

Flax seed

Phytic acid

Wheat bran

Quercetin

Apples, onions, tea, berries, various seeds and nuts, some medicinal botanicals, including Ginkgo biloba and St. John’s Wort

Resveratrol

Grapes, berries, peanuts, red wine

Lana Pinshaw BscDiet (sRD) Lana Pinshaw is a South African qualified dietician.

She graduated in 1998 from the University of Pretoria and soon left South Africa to further her career in London. She worked for the private hospital group HCA for 6 years after which she had her first child and became a freelance dietician working in both the NHS and private fields, starting her own practice. For the past 9 years, she has worked for Chai and has gone back to work for the HCA group.

20 years of cancer support in the community

11

Breast Cancer: Prof. Michael Baum & Mr Michael Douek

Prof. Michael Baum MB, ChB, FRCS, ChM, MD(hon), FRCR(hon) Current position: Professor Emeritus of Surgery and visiting Prof. of Medical Humanities, University College London.

Michael Baum qualified in medicine at Birmingham University medical school in 1960. He held chairs of surgery at Kings College London 1980 - 1990, the Institute of Cancer Research 1990 - 1995 and University College London 1995 -2001. In the past he has been President of the British Oncology Association, the European Breast cancer conference and chairman of the Psychosocial committee of the National Cancer Research Institute. He has been awarded the William McGuire prize at San Antonio Texas, the Charles Gross prize in France, the St Gallen prize in Switzerland and the gold medal of the International College of surgeons for his research into the treatment of breast cancer. He established the first clinical trials centres in the UK, was one of the first to challenge the doctrine of radical mastectomy, lead the first trial that demonstrated the potential of tamoxifen to prolong life amongst breast cancer victims and was also the first to describe psychometric instruments to measure quality of life in cancer sufferers. Most recently he has lead the first trial to demonstrate the equivalence of intra-operative single dose of radiotherapy with 6 weeks postoperative treatment.

Breast cancer is now the most common cancer in the UK. About 1 in 9 women are diagnosed with breast cancer at some point during their lifetime and it is very rare in men. This amounts to about 45,500 women and 270 men (0.6%) diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Of these, about 35% (16,000) are diagnosed through the NHS Breast Screening Program and the rest present to breast clinics across the UK, with symptoms of breast disease. Symptoms include, a lump or lumpiness, a change in the shape of the breast or nipple, or a blood stained nipple discharge.

Self-examination has not been shown to be effective, probably because women do not know what to look for and do not perform it on a regular basis. Breast awareness, or a basic knowledge of what can go wrong, is important in order to ensure that women seek help when a new symptom is first identified, and if it does not resolve after the next menstrual cycle.

Thus a new lump or new symptoms should be brought to the attention of an experienced clinician who can then examine and or image the breast.

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20 years of cancer support in the community

A number of factors have been found to be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer and are know as risk-factors. Many of these are not controllable and are therefore only of academic interest. These include, age, family history of breast cancer, living in the Western society, obesity, alcohol intake, lack of exercise, current use of oral contraceptives and use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). After female gender, age is by far the most important risk-factor as a 60 year old is 10 times more likely to have breast cancer, compared to a 40 year old lady. Of these risk-factors, family history is of particular interest to the Ashkenazi Jewish Community as the most important cancer syndrome, the hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, is more prevalent in this group. Three founder genetic mutations (two in the BRCA1 and one in the BRCA2 genes) are specifically found in the Ashkenazi community. These genes are associated with a 3585% lifetime risk of breast cancer and a 16-60% lifetime risk of ovarian cancer as well as an increased risk

of other cancers including peritoneal, fallopian tube, prostate and pancreatic. Women who carry these genes should be managed by a specialist unit where a geneticist can undertake a formal risk-assessment.

Women can then be considered for screening and surgical options aimed at reducing risk. However, it is important to note that although family history of breast cancer is common and up to 27% of women may have an inherited predisposition for breast cancer, only 5% of women with breast cancer carry one of the known abnormal genes. Thus the genetic aspects are interesting but rare.

The modern treatment of breast cancer is delivered as part of a multidisciplinary team including surgeons, oncologists, radiotherapists, pathologists, radiologists, specialist nurses and many more. Over the last 30 years incremental improvements in cancer treatment and also in screening have led to an improvement in breast cancer survival. Surgery is the most important treatment available for breast cancer and it can now be safely undertaken by breast conservation with radiotherapy in over 60% of women. Increasing emphasis is now placed on reducing morbidity and improving the quality of life of women with

breast cancer. The introduction of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) as a part of breast cancer surgery, has further reduced the morbidity of surgery. The need for whole breast radiotherapy has been questioned. Several trials are now underway to assess partial-breast radiotherapy administered intraoperatively or after surgery. Most recently, a trial of a single dose of intra-operative radiotherapy (TARGIT) has shown very promising results, paving the way towards the delivery of breast cancer treatment at a single sitting. This would be followed by additional oral medication (e.g.: tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors) for a selection of patients with lower risk tumours and chemotherapy for higher risk patients.

Today 8 out of 10 women survive breast cancer and survivorship, focuses on improving the care and support to patients in the longer term. Organisations such as Chai provide the essential backup patients need in order to return to a normal and active life.

With an increasing population of survivors, the focus should be shifted to enable patients and their family to return to a normal status quo and quality of life, as quickly as possible.

Mr Michael Douek MD, FRCS(Eng) FRCS(Gen) Current position: Reader in Surgery & Consultant Surgeon, Breast Unit, Guy’s Hospital.

Michael Douek is a Reader in Surgery (King’s College London) and Consultant Surgeon at Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Trust. His main interest is in breast cancer surgery specifically, improving breast conserving surgery using techniques such as breast MRI, intra-operative radiotherapy and sentinel node biopsy.

His translational research program evaluates novel imaging modalities to improve breast conserving surgery for cancer including clinical applications of nanotechnology for sentinel node biopsy. He is the chief investigator of the SentiMag trial of sentinel node biopsy and principal investigator for the international randomised controlled trial of intra-operative radiotherapy (TARGIT trial), at Guys Hospital. He is a regular speaker at national and international conferences, published several papers on breast cancer and made contributions in the health media.

Michael graduated from the University of Dundee (Scotland) and trained in surgery in London, Oxford and Cambridge. He obtained his MD from the University of London in 2000. In 2003, he was awarded a prestigious Health Foundation Clinician Scientist grant by the UK Academy of Medical Sciences, fully funding his joint Senior Lecturer and Consultant post in breast and general surgery at University College London. He was a Consultant Surgeon & Senior Lecturer at University College Hospital (UCH) for over 5 years.

20 years of cancer support in the community

13

Spa Day 2010 The Chai Well Being Spa Day was held in the spectacular home of Cheryl and Stuart Lewis on a beautiful spring day.

The event was Karen Goodkind’s “brainchild” and she was the driving force and inspiration ensuring the day’s success.

The capacity was stretched to accommodate the 90 ladies who attended. They enjoyed spa and beauty treatments as well as some of the holistic treatments that Chai offers such as shiatsu, reflexology, aromatherapy and reiki which can help people deal with the side effects of cancer treatment.

Feeling refreshed and relaxed, the ladies then sat down to a delicious lunch and a talk by celebrity trainer Matt Roberts. Matt spoke about the importance of exercise and maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

The event was the first of its kind as many well known companies generously donated their skills, products and services to the day. The companies who participated included; Aben Wines Limited, Balance Me, Bharti Vyas, Carole Sobell, Chiko Photography, Guinot, HOB Salons, Jason Milan, Kristal Florist, Liquid Chefs, Live Events, Marks & Spencer, Matt Roberts, Matt Roberts Gym, Michael Rose Banqueting, Minton Water, Perfect Nails and Tony Page.

Karen Goodkind was absolutely thrilled with the success of the day and praised “the amazing services” that Chai provides, saying that she was “delighted to be able to help this wonderful and much needed organisation.”

Photography by Chiko and Vicky Brown

Juliette Owide, Stephanie Harris, Linda Plant, Karen Goodkind, Lisa Tchenguiz, Lydia Attia, Renee Feinstein & Wendy Press

Morven Heller & Louise Hager

Karen Lipinski, Lesley Burkeman, Charlene Unterhalter

Louise Hager, Karen Goodkind & Cheryl Lewis

Karen Goodkind & Matt Roberts

Renee Feinstein, Naomi Press, Zea Lewis, Cheryl Lewis

Tiffany and Anita Zablodowicz, Dayle Kantor & Vanessa Jossel

Pamela Kalms & Daniela Pears

Sharon Green, Ruth Bray, Karen Haftel

Yvonne Delane, Samantha Stone, Karen Harris

Growth of our Services: Elaine Kerr, Chief Executive organisations providing support for cancer patients, such as Breast Cancer Haven, visit Chai to learn how we do what we do, so successfully.

Use of our home support service for clients, who are either unable to come to a Chai site or prefer to benefit from our services in their own homes, has also dramatically increased and we now make thousands of home visits to our clients each year.

Home Visits:

In her Chairman’s message, Louise refers to this year being significant for Chai. Well I shall bold and underline that statement. In terms of our development and preparing for the future, this year provided the opportunities and we seized them. Below I note some major strategic plans that have come to fruition during the last year.

The Need This pie-chart demonstrates the growth in the number of new clients turning to Chai for support. Over the last two years this 50% growth each year has been sustained and we have successfully responded, thereby maintaining both the fast access and high quality of our services.

New Clients:

Chai sees an average of 80 new clients each month. We currently support 1300 clients, of whom around half are cancer patients and half are family members or friends.

Chai was recently judged, with two other organisations, to be providing the highest quality psychological support services for Level 3 patients by the commissioners of the North London Cancer Network. Other voluntary

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20 years of cancer support in the community

Our clients can use all of our services, with the exception of groups, in their own homes, hospitals and hospices.

The Services and Access to them Chai currently provides therapies, complementary therapies, counselling for individuals, couples and families, advice and advocacy, support groups and volunteer services. Each client is offered all the services which will be of benefit to them, and this package of care will change over time. Clients may use Chai’s services for as long as they need to, which can sometimes be for years.

Most clients self refer by calling our free helpline, some walk into our Hendon Centre or other sites, and many are recommended or referred by health and social care professionals or other voluntary and statutory agencies.

We see distressed clients for their first appointment within 24 hours and all new clients are seen within 2-3 days.

We do not have a waiting list for services, which can be provided immediately after the initial appointment.

New clients turn to Chai at any time from pre-diagnosis to late stage illness.

Our Hendon Centre provides the greatest number and range of services for a population of around 170,000 people surrounding NW and N London and Hertfordshire.

Since the opening of the new Wohl Wing adjoining the Centre, we have been able to increase the number of

Chai’s Garden Room

counselling sessions held in Hendon by 40 per week, and increase individual therapy sessions by the same amount.

Physical exercise groups and our physiotherapy clients are thoroughly enjoying our new gym, and many clients visiting the Centre are now spending time in the beautiful garden room taking part in a range of activities or just enjoying some quiet time.

We provide services for the rest of London and Essex from our bases in South London, Redbridge, Southend and Hackney. The Southend and Hackney services were opened during 2010 and all services have seen client numbers steadily rising during the year.

The immediate success of the North Manchester service which opened in May 2009 led to the development of a service in South Manchester that opened this summer. The advantage of having two bases in Manchester has resulted in Chai being able to provide services to a wider geographical area, and nearer to clients’ homes. We currently support clients in Liverpool, Leeds and Newcastle who are being served from our Manchester bases.

We opened our Glasgow service earlier in the year and will be seeking a base on the south coast during the next year in order to provide truly national coverage.

Each Chai location has the expert core services that are relevant to any cancer patient and family members. As each new service establishes itself we learn in detail what specific services are required to support each individual community. We ensure that we work in partnership with local voluntary and statutory services so that we do not replicate local provision, but fill gaps and enhance local care and support with our expert and specialist knowledge. The development of services in each

location is therefore completely responsive to the community it serves.

Consolidation and Further Expansion After two hectic years of geographical expansion Chai will continue to consolidate our 8 sites ensuring that we maintain our high quality professional services whilst responding sensitively to individual community needs.

We have plans to establish a presence on the south coast so that we can reach the Jewish communities there.

At the same time we shall be focusing on furthering our not inconsiderable support to those overseas who rely on Chai for telephone advice and/or counselling.

Our partnership work continues to flourish and we are committed to finding joint projects and sharing expertise with a growing number of Jewish voluntary agencies – all of which result in benefits for our, often, joint clients. This year it has been a pleasure to develop robust and mutually beneficial working relationships with Jewish Care Scotland, Jewish Blind Society Scotland, Norwood and Bikkur Cholim d’Satmar. Of course we continue to work with Nightingale, the Federation of Jewish Services in Manchester and Jewish Care in Redbridge and Southend.

It has been a real privilege to work with like minded colleagues to the benefit of our community.

Finally, we shall be launching a national first with a new service at the Hendon Centre in October this year. This innovative partnership will be of enormous benefit to our clients and will provide a model which meets the Government’s strategy for the future of cancer care in the UK.

20 years of cancer support in the community

17

Group Activities Chai is experienced in establishing and running groups

Meditation

which meet the needs of our clients, and complement

Our highly-experienced facilitator uses visualisation to

and enhance the one-to-one counselling and

promote positive feelings through deep relaxation.

therapies we provide. As we are responsive to client

Many clients who have practised visualisation in the

suggestions new groups are often formed. All clients

session frequently use it in their daily lives, and find it a

are welcome to attend a group – even if they just want

very helpful aid to reducing stress and relieving anxiety.

to try it once or know that they cannot attend regularly.

Pilates Art Workshop

Pilates is a form of exercise which uses small, controlled

In the weekly group our clients are astonished at their

movements with an emphasis on core stability to

own achievements, even if they have never attempted

strengthen and tone the body. It is able to help re-

to paint or draw before. With guidance from

educate the body, promoting flexibility, postural

professional artist Linda Sharpe and her volunteers,

alignments and musculo-skeletal balance. Pilates assists

clients learn and release new talents, enjoy tea and

in relieving stress and tension while providing physical

cake, and often make new friends.

fitness and a sense of wellbeing. Chai has pilates classes on Mondays and Thursdays, with classes for

For the last 3 years Chai’s Rosh Hashanah card has

beginners and advanced beginners.

been designed by a group member, and last year a vibrant calendar was produced using their paintings

Post Breast Surgery Exercise Group*

– with their kind permission of course. They are already

Regular arm exercises performed soon after breast

planning next year’s calendar!

surgery will regain and maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength, and decrease scarring. Neck and

Bereavement Group*

shoulder discomfort due to muscle tensing to protect

This group is run by professional counsellors for our

the wound can be alleviated with regular, planned

clients who have sadly lost their partner. Within the

exercise. Exercises are important during, as well as

group our clients are safe to express their feelings

after, radiotherapy which can cause tightening of

in a supportive and empathetic place.

the shoulder.

Breast Buddies*

This group is led by one of our Chartered

Breast Buddies, facilitated by our professional

Physiotherapists who provides group and individual

counsellors, is specifically for women with breast

guidance and advice. The group is suitable at any

cancer. It meets on the first Thursday of each month

time after discharge from the hospital.

and group members have an opportunity to get and give support, as well as gather information in

Wednesday Afternoons

a safe environment.

On alternate Wednesday afternoons, our clients and our enthusiastic team of volunteers, enjoy a range of

Laughter Yoga

activities from cards to games to quizzes. Some clients

Laughter Yoga is a combination of self-triggered

come regularly just to enjoy the company, conversation

laughter and yoga exercises which increases the

and refreshments. Four times a year our Wednesday

amount of oxygen in your body. The resulting feelings

afternoons welcome professional entertainers.

of health and energy change the physiology of the body – so you start to feel happier. You don’t even

Yoga

need a sense of humour, just a willingness to laugh!

Our expert yoga teacher has been practising for

Laughter Yoga is....that you start to feel happier.

over 20 years. Her class is suitable for all levels – with individual attention given, and can help to reduce stress and assist the body to improve its health and wellbeing.

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20 years of cancer support in the community

*All groups are available to anyone affected by cancer, be it patient or family, except where specifically indicated.

One Family’s Story Sandra “It was around Pesach a year ago that I first noticed the lump in my breast. Although I went for tests straight away, it wasn’t until the summer that it was decided that the lump should be removed. By this time I had Grade 3 breast cancer. This was a terribly confusing time for me, and for my husband Ian. I felt a huge pressure to be ‘brave’, to carry on as normal and most importantly to ensure my children did not notice any changes in my role as their mummy.

My family and friends were marvellous, but Ian sensed that I needed specialised, expert support. He made the call to Chai. Since being in touch with Chai last September, I have been receiving counselling, massage and reflexology at the centre in Hendon and also in my own home. Chai has been my haven, allowing me to show the side that I can’t show at home, and giving me the support and strength to continue my battle.”

Ian & Ruthie “It hasn’t been an easy year for us. Shortly after Pesach last year my mother passed away, and then Sandra was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Our children have always been Sandra’s main concern.

They are very sensitive to their surroundings – and can always tell when their mum needs a cuddle! They seem to be coping well, however Sandra’s cancer and the side effects of her treatment meant she hasn’t always been able to be there for them. Chai helped us think through how and what we told the children. My mother-in-law Ruthie has been so supportive and is amazing with Sandra and the kids. She finds it really hard to watch Sandra suffering, so she has also been going to Chai for regular counselling. And, I know Chai’s door is always open for me too. Chai’s services have made the world of difference to Sandra, and I am truly grateful that she has a space where she can focus on herself, without having to worry about the rest of us.”

“My family and friends were marvellous, but Ian sensed that I needed specialised, expert support.

He made the call to Chai.”

20 years of cancer support in the community

19

Colorectal Cancer: Mr Daren Francis How common is bowel cancer?

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK. Each year 35,000 people in Britain are diagnosed with cancer of the colon or rectum.

Unlike certain other cancers bowel cancer can often be cured. The mainstay of treatment is surgery however chemotherapy and radiotherapy are playing an ever more important role. New treatments are being introduced all of the time making survival even more likely.

One thing we know for certain is that the earlier bowel cancer is diagnosed the greater the chance of cure.

How does it all start?

The colon and rectum is lined with millions of cells which over a person’s lifetime shed and are then replaced. The replacement of these cells is very strictly controlled and regulated by genes. If this process is faulty in any way then the growth of these cells becomes abnormal and leads to the formation of a polyp. This polyp is the first step towards cancer.

Polyps Once the polyp has been formed it starts to grow. From a tiny bump on the lining of the bowel it increases in size.

This can occur over many years and some polyps remain benign throughout life. However approximately one in ten polyps will turn into a cancer. As a rule of thumb the larger the polyp the more likely that it will be cancerous.

We are less concerned about polyps less than 1cm in size.

We know that the majority of all the cancers of the colon and rectum start as benign polyps and if removed early enough prevent cancer developing.

Polyp to Cancer – the process In some polyps the growth pattern becomes so disordered and fast that the cells become unrecognisable as polyp cells and become cancer cells. This is the first part of the change from a benign polyp to a malignant or cancerous polyp. As the cancer advances it starts to grow into the wall of the bowel and can invade the blood stream, lymphatics and nearby structures. When this occurs it is referred to as an invasive cancer. Once this has happened, the cancer can potentially “metastasise”. This means it can spread to organs far away like the liver and lungs to form secondaries or metastases. The cancer does this via the blood stream or the lymphatics.

The importance of early diagnosis and screening Put simply the earlier the cancer is detected the better the chance of cure. As the cancer gets larger it invades more deeply and the chances of it spreading increase.

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20 years of cancer support in the community

Not all people have symptoms of bowel cancer which is why the Government has introduced the national bowel cancer screening programme. Screening gives the opportunity of picking up polyps or cancers when they are still curable. This programme is offered to all people aged between 60 and 75. It involves a simple stool test which is carried out in the privacy of ones own home.

The symptoms of bowel cancer The process of the polyp turning into a cancer can take between 5 and 10 years. Early on in this process there are very little in the way of symptoms. The symptoms which develop later such as bleeding, change in bowel habit, episodes of diarrhoea and constipation are also common to other bowel disorders such as piles and irritable bowel syndrome making the diagnosis in some circumstances quite difficult. When a bowel cancer gets bigger it can sometimes lead to severe abdominal pain and even block the bowel which requires emergency treatment. In some cases bleeding from the bowel can go unnoticed and after a period of time the patient will become anaemic.

How is the diagnosis made?

Sometimes the doctor will be able to make the diagnosis by examining the abdomen or performing a rectal examination. If there is any doubt tests are needed. The most commonly used tests are: Flexible Sigmoidoscopy – following an enema to clear the bottom part of the bowel a telescope is inserted to directly inspect the lower half of the bowel.

Colonoscopy – this test requires the bowel to be cleaned the day before the test using powerful laxatives. Again it is a telescope but on this occasion the entire large bowel is examined to check for polyps and cancers. This test is normally carried out with sedation as it can be a little uncomfortable.

CT pneumocolon scan – this is an X- ray test and again requires the bowel to be cleared with powerful laxatives the day before the examination. A tube is not passed through the bowel but air is inflated to allow the bowel to be examined. It is good at detecting problems but unable to treat any polyps.

The advantage of the flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy is that if there is a polyp or a growth in the bowel it can either be completely removed at the same time or a biopsy taken.

The best test for each individual patient is selected by the specialist as not all the tests are appropriate for everyone.

What happens after the diagnosis is made?

Once the diagnosis of bowel cancer is confirmed the decision making process regarding your care is made by a team of specialists known as a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Further tests are organised including blood tests and special scans. This enables a full assessment of the primary bowel cancer and in addition the extent of spread. This allows for the planning of the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment does depend a lot on the location of the cancer as there is a difference in the initial treatment of colonic and rectal cancers.

Rectal cancers The planning of the treatment of rectal cancer is slightly different from colonic cancer as radiotherapy aimed at the cancer can shrink the tumour before surgery and improve cure rates. Following radiotherapy, surgery can then remove all of the tissue surrounding the cancer and leave none behind. This is known as a total mesorectal excision or TME. After the tumour is removed it is cut up and looked at under the microscope to decide if any further treatment like chemotherapy is needed. This is dependant on how far into the bowel wall the tumour has invaded and if it has affected any of the lymph glands which have been removed at operation.

Colonic cancers After the tumour has been assessed most colonic cancers are treated by surgery in the first instance.

The surgery allows removal of the tumour and the lymph glands surrounding it. The specimen which has been removed is then looked at under the microscope and again the level of invasion through the bowel wall is assessed along with the number of lymph glands that are affected. This allows the planning of any post operative chemotherapy. With early cancers sometimes surgical removal alone is all that is necessary.

Consequences of surgery With most cancers of the colon, after removal of the affected section the ends of the bowel can be joined together again. However with some cancers of the rectum (which are very close to the anal canal) it is not possible to leave enough rectum so as to allow the bowel to be rejoined. In these cases a colostomy is formed.

This is an opening of the bowel onto the abdominal

wall to allow the passage of stool after the rectum has been removed.

What happens after recovering from surgery?

The key to planning the treatment after surgery is the final histology of the specimen which has been removed.

This is looked at under the microscope and the need for any chemotherapy decided by the MDT on a number of factors specific to the individual case. The role of chemotherapy is to improve the chances of cure. The specialist team continues to follow up patients with regular blood tests and scans.

Advanced bowel cancer In some cases the cancer has spread to other organs and cure is not possible. In these cases sometimes surgery is not appropriate. On these occasions chemotherapy and radiotherapy play a major role in the treatment. These modalities can be very effective in controlling symptoms and prolonging life but careful consideration has to be taken to select a treatment which balances the side affects and the benefits gained.

Implications for the family When people are diagnosed with bowel cancer at a young age (40 – 50 years) or when bowel cancer is very common within a family it could be because there is an inherited genetic abnormality. The risk of other members developing bowel cancer is assessed and they can be advised to undergo regular colonoscopies starting at a young age.

The future and research The treatment for colorectal cancer continues to improve all of the time. Screening has meant earlier detection and endoscopic removal. Laparoscopic or keyhole surgery is allowing much smaller incisions and quicker recovery following surgery. Larger tumours are being shrunk with specific chemotherapy and radiotherapy to allow surgical removal. Liver and lung surgery is now possible for selected patients who have developed metastases with a view to cure. People with inoperable cancer are living with the disease as less toxic and more effective chemotherapies are developed. We continue to make people aware to watch for potential signs through various methods to make it easier to identify cancer at an early stage.

Mr Daren Francis MBBS, MD, FRCS Daren Francis is a consultant surgeon at Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals NHS Trust where he provides a Colorectal, Laparoscopic and General surgical service. He also works privately from Spire Hospital Bushey, The Garden Hospital and The Kings Oak and Cavell Hospital. For more information please visit Daren’s website: www.darenfrancis.co.uk

20 years of cancer support in the community

21

Opening of the Wohl Wing There was an a air of celebration at the dedication

capacity filled room when he said that he could not

ceremony of the Wohl Wing at Chai’s flagship centre in

remember a time when Chai did not exist. He praised

Hendon. With drinks in hand, guests took guided tours

Chai, and shared that at council meetings Chai was often

of the new Wing and had the opportunity to admire

held up as an example of how an organisation can grow

the much needed four additional counselling rooms,

and serve the needs of its community.

garden room and physiotherapy suite.

As part of the dedication ceremony supporters were In her welcome, Louise Hager highlighted that the

invited to fix the mezuzot on all 21 doors.

positive and uplifting atmosphere of the centre had been embodied in the Wing. This reflected Chai’s ethos of supporting people to enable them to live with their cancer. Maureen Lipman CBE paid a moving tribute to her dearest friend and fellow Honorary Patron Lady Jakobovitz z’l.

Chairman of the trustees of the Wohl Foundation, and nephew of Maurice and Vivienne Wohl, Professor David Latchman CBE spoke of how delighted he and his co- trustees were to continue the support for Chai that had existed since its inception. Councillor Anthony Finn, Mayor of Barnet summed up the feeling in the

Maureen Lipman CBE, Louise Hager

Kate Goldberg, Ella Latchman, Prof. David Latchman CBE, Martin Paisner CBE & Daniel Dover

Davidson Family

Elaine Kerr & Lady Pamela Kalms MBE

Natalie, Clive & Roberta Gold

Gerald & Benita Fogel, Lord Young

John Julius, Betty Trompeter, Alex Faiman, Susan Mattes

Gillian & Irving Carter, Freddy & Louise Hager & Lady Pamela Kalms MBE

Suzanne & Michael Marks

Daniel Leon, Sula Leon, Danielle Leon, Anthony Leon

Erna Angus, Dennis Jacobs, Betty Trompeter, Elaine Kerr

Maurice Berman, Rochelle Wolfson, Frances Berman, Leo Wolfson, Max Wolfson

Photos by Jeremy Coleman

Martin Paisner CBE

Q&A with Sir Ralph Kohn FRS and Lady Zahava Kohn

Q: Tell us about your early lives and how you both met?

daughters; Hephzi, Michelle and Maxine and are proud grandparents.”

A: Zahava: “I was born in Palestine after my parents had moved there from Holland in 1935. When I was one and a half, my parents decided to leave Palestine as my

Q: How and why did Ralph get into the pharmaceutical

mother was seriously unwell due to severe dehydration.

industry?

My parents settled in Amsterdam as they were unable to immigrate to Switzerland, where my maternal

A: Ralph: “My career started when I obtained a

grandparents lived.”

scholarship to university but was unable to gain a place to study medicine in 1947 due to returning ex-servicemen

“During the war my parents and I spent time in the

being allocated 90% of the available places. Although I

concentration camps of Westerbork and Bergen-Belsen.

wanted to study medicine, these restrictions resulted in

The fact that I was born in Palestine was later an

my having to choose another course. I studied

important factor that helped my family to be saved from

pharmacology at Manchester University and obtained a

transportation to Auschwitz.”

PhD in 1954 and went on to win the Wild prize in Pharmacology. I found myself studying and working in

“After the war my family and I moved back to

an era of innovation, with revolutionary drug discoveries

Amsterdam, but the city bore little resemblance to the

such as penicillin, streptomycin, anti-hypertensive drugs

one that existed pre-war. With the help of some friends I

and cortisone paving the way for new and effective

chose to move to London and started working for Dr

treatments, which fascinated me.”

Schonfeld, a young Rabbi. I worked in the nursery schools of Hasmonean and Menorah Primary School and

“My work then took me to Rome and New York during

was taken in and made to feel very welcome by the

the years of 1954 to 1958 as I pursued research

Orthodox community in Golders Green.”

experience. With various scholarships and fellowships I worked at renowned institutes in Europe and the US.

A: Ralph: “I was born in Leipzig, Germany and shortly

Whilst in Rome I worked alongside the two Nobel Prize

after Hitler came to power in 1933 my family left for

winners, Professor Daniel Bovet and Sir Ernst Chain FRS

Amsterdam, Holland. I attended elementary school

(who shared the Nobel Prize for Penicillin with Fleming

from 1935 to 1940 when my family fled as refugees on

and Florey). Bovet actually won the prize whilst I was

the day the Nazis occupied Amsterdam on 14th May

working with him. In New York I studied at the Albert

1940. After a seven-day sea journey my family was

Einstein College of Medicine, which resulted in my being

allowed to land in Liverpool. We had left all our

appointed Head of Pharmacology for an American

belongings behind in Holland and arrived in England as

company. I subsequently became Managing Director of

penniless refugees. My family chose to settle in Salford,

a Swiss biological company, after which I set up my own

Manchester as my father had friends in the textile

company.”

industry there.”

“After 12 years in the pharmaceutical industry I believed

24

A: Zahava: “I went to visit my parents on a short break to

that there was a real need for an independent research

Holland in August 1962, when my father asked me to

company that had no bias or vested interest in the

meet a young man, the son of some mutual

outcome of trials. In 1970 I set up my own organisation,

acquaintances. I agreed and met Ralph Kohn with his

the first independent medical research company in the

parents in Scheveningen who were also on holiday as

UK mainly dealing with the clinical assessment of new

Ralph, like me, was living in London at the time. When we

drugs. This company became widely known for its work

were both back in London we continued to see each

and within 20 years it had won the prestigious Queen’s

other and in December 1962 were engaged. We were

award for Expert Achievement. Over the years my

married on 12th March 1963 at the Jacob Obrecht

company has worked with many organisations

Synagogue in Amsterdam. We now have three beautiful

worldwide and it has gained a reputation for scrupulous

20 years of cancer support in the community

Sir Ralph and Lady Zahava Kohn

fairness, innovation and impartiality between the

in science and medicine, as well as arts and education -

medical profession and the pharmaceutical industry. I

interests closest to our hearts. Support of Jewish

believe that the British regulatory process has played a

community and Israeli causes is of great importance to

huge positive role in the development of new drugs.”

us. Our strong personal interests and commitment keep us at the forefront of the Foundation, choosing where to

“The development of the company could not have

make contributions, and being actively involved in the

been achieved, or indeed been so successful, without

projects that we support.”

Zahava’s continual support and encouragement and particularly considering the time she spent working for the company whilst simultaneously bringing up a young

Q: How did Ralph start singing?

family.”

A: Ralph: “Whilst in Holland, I studied the violin for 4 years A: Zahava: “This year we were delighted when Ralph

until my family had to leave. A love of music ran in my

received a KBE (Knights Bachelor). This citation is most

family as my father was very musical and loved opera.

unusual as it is for services to science, music and charity –

He was also a very fine Baal Tefila. The years from 1954

all the things he loves doing. Previously he was the

onwards renewed my passion for music and I began to

recipient of numerous awards and honours including

study vocal music in Rome. I have carried on with this

election to the prestigious fellowship of the Royal Society

throughout my life and became sufficiently proficient to

(FRS).”

appear as vocal recitalist in many venues, e.g. Wigmore Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room and St. John’s Smith Square, as well as giving recitals in Israel.”

Q: How and why was the Kohn Foundation set up?

A: Zahava: “Ralph has recorded a great deal, mainly A: Zahava: “In 1991, we were in a fortunate position to

from the Lieder repertoire and particularly with the world-

have a successful company and found we wanted to

renowned pianist Graham Johnson. Ralph has also

give something back to society for the success that we

recorded with the English Chamber Orchestra and has

had achieved. The first step we took in order to do this

made16 CDs so far, which are all marketed. Next month

was to set up the Kohn Foundation. The Kohn Foundation

(August) he is due to make a further Beethoven/

makes contributions to support research and innovation

Schubert recording. His contributions to music in more 20 years of cancer support in the community

25

general terms have been recognised in his being

Q: You have both lived such interesting lives; with all

elected a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Music and

your experiences, what message would you pass on to

Doctor of Music.”

younger generations?

A: Zahava and Ralph: “We would pass on to future

Q: There are many Jewish Charities, why have you

generations the importance of maintaining a positive

chosen to support Chai for 20 years?

attitude in life; everyone faces challenges and hardships but one must try and find a sense of purpose. Enthusiasm

A: Ralph: “Having spent so many years in the

to create a better world has driven certain choices we

pharmaceutical industry and tested a lot of anti-tumour

have made in our lives and we have seen the impact

drugs, I feel that though significant progress is being

that this has had. Perseverance has made us stronger

made cancer is still a dreaded disease. Both of us

and we would encourage people to always push

recognise that whilst physicians and surgeons provide

forward and find the positive in any situation rather than

the orthodox treatment, cancer patients are individuals

dwell on the negative.”

who should also be supported holistically, thus fully taking account of psychological and spiritual needs.”

Interviewer’s notes: In 2009, Zahava’s biography ‘Fragments of a Lost Childhood’ was published. Her story

Q: What are your hopes for Chai over the next 20 years?

is a remarkable one as she recalls her journey from Palestine to Amsterdam and her time in the

A: Ralph: “Over the next 20 years, our first wish would be

concentrations camps of Westerbork and Bergen-Belsen.

that there is no need for Chai. At present, however, we

In this book you can clearly see this message of

see Chai as a vital part of our community and hope that

perseverance and a drive for a better world as

Chai will continue to grow and support more people with

demonstrated by her and her family. From the very early

increasing services.”

days of Chai, Ralph and Zahava have provided much needed funds to enable Chai to provide the support and care that they wish to see in the community.

Can Vicky celebrate your simcha too?

Are you planning a special anniversary celebration?

Or are you approaching a significant birthday?

If you are arranging a simcha of any kind, you can help Vicky and others to cope with the effects of cancer, by asking your guests to donate to Chai.

Add a worthwhile and meaningful touch to your celebration with the gift of care and support.

To find out more about making your occasiona Chai occasion, please contact Chai on 020 8202 2211.

Chai Cancer Care 144-146 Great North Way London NW4 1EH Tel: 020 8202 2211 info@chaicancercare.org Registered Charity No.1078956 Identities have been changed to protect confidentiality.

26

20 years of cancer support in the community

A Charity that’s my Cup of Chai: Tracy Ann Oberman I have always been a bit of a hypochondriac. It’s not

of the time) that we must keep it a secret within the

just a cold it’s ‘FLU; I haven’t just put on a few pounds in

family.” Chai never wants anyone to feel alone.

weight, it’s a THYROID problem; its not just a headache, it’s a pulsating, hideous MIGRANE; no worse than that,

The evening made me realise that firstly, cancer is

it’s a BRAIN TUMOUR.

indiscriminate. Secondly, no one likes to be a victim and Chai sees that often people who have the illness

Since having my daughter, I am worse than ever. I lie in

are the “strong ones” who cannot accept that they

bed at night in a cold sweat, panicking about what the

may now need help. No one wants the pity and the

first signs of CANCER of the leg/mouth/breast might be.

sighs. Thirdly, and it is something I have seen with my

Just writing the word cancer makes me nervous. It is

own eyes, that cancer sufferers are bombarded with

one of those words like Auschwitz and Nazi that is

the responsibility to be “positive and cheerful” in the

visceral.

face of a horrifying time. Chai beautifully tackles all of this head on. It’s a bright cheerful place.

It’s one of those words that brings on paralysis, dry mouth, makes the head pound whilst simultaneously

As one incredible, funny and intelligent woman, Bella,

provoking a strong desire to run away.

put it: “I was the capable one, I told people how to sort their lives out and here I was in need of help. I didn’t

This may sound a tad trite, like I’m trying to eke out

want it. Chai was the last place I thought I’d go. But I

some comedy, but I, like so many of you, have been

turned up one day and sobbed for an hour with a

touched by cancer, lost young and old, friends and

counsellor. Then I had a cup of tea.”

family alike, and I know that it’s no laughing matter.

Chai will never let anyone be alone. They are the friend I try not to think about it too much. But last week I was

that will take you to and from the treatments, they will

invited to an evening at Chai Cancer Care in Hendon

be the shoulder to cry on, they will offer the quiet

to hear about how cancer has touched so many

space to just “be” or a place to have a massage or if

people and how Chai has helped them.

you are too sick to travel will bring it to your home. And I think that is incredible.

Louise Hager spoke very movingly about how her mother co-founded Chai “When my mother was

If you or anyone you know has been touched by

diagnosed with cancer, my father told us (typical

cancer, please call Chai. They are an incredible resource for our community.

Tracy Ann Oberman Tracy Ann Oberman is a television, theatre and radio actress. Her many TV credits include her instantaneously recognised role as Chrissie Watts in the BBC soap opera Eastenders. When she murdered her on screen husband, the episode was watched by 17 million viewers. She originated and co-authoured the critically acclaimed play Three Sisters on Hope Street. In 2010 she wrote the wellreceived radio play “Bette and Joan and Baby Jane” which was Pick of the Week on BBC Radio 4. She was a regular columnist for the Guardian newspaper.

Tracy Ann trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, and spent four years in the Royal Shakesphere Company, before going on to play at the National Theatre. Her extensive theatrical background includes turns opposite Kenneth Branagh in Edmond (2003) and a run in the West End revival of Boeing-Boeing (2007-2008). Tracy Ann can be seen in The Great Ghost Rescue opposite Kevin McKidd and Stephen McKintosh, a feature film that will be released next year.

20 years of cancer support in the community

27

Cancer Genetics – The Jewish Perspective: Dr Ian Ellis The Genetic Predisposition to Cancer

DNA molecule that determines what function that gene has. Genes fall into three groups:

One in three of us will develop a cancer at some time.

i. structural genes coding for a body protein such as

Hopefully later in life and now often curable, but it is

muscle

always a shock when the diagnosis is made. After initial

ii. regulatory genes (oncogenes or tumour suppressor

questions about treatment options and prognosis,

genes) that control the cell or other genes in that cell

people may go on to ask, ‘Why me? Why now? How did

iii. repair genes that correct mistakes in the DNA of cells

this happen?’ Answers are starting to come from studies of the genes that control cell growth and those genes

Our complete set of 30,000 genes is carried on the 23

that repair errors in other genes. This is particularly for

pairs of chromosomes inside the nucleus of every cell. We

breast, ovarian and bowel cancers that occur at a

inherit two copies of each gene, one in each pair from

younger age and that cluster in some families. Some

our parents in the egg and sperm cell that made us.

families particularly those of eastern European Ashkenazi

Mistakes in the copying of our DNA are called mutations.

origin are at greater risk of inheriting an alteration in one

They occur spontaneously and accumulate in our DNA

of these cancer predisposition genes.

as we age. Mutations can also be inherited and passed down through families. The random spelling change of A

Important as genes are, they are not the whole story.

to C or G to T, or the loss of a run of letters C-G-A-T-T-C-T-

Environmental factors - what we eat, our lifestyle and

G-A from a gene will lead to a change in the message or

what we are exposed to, for example smoking can also

inactivate the function of that gene (see Figure 1).

cause cancers. It is the interplay between a genetic predisposition and these environmental triggers, nature

Regulatory and Repair Genes

and nurture that determines who may develop cancer, where in the body this might be and at what age. We all

Apart from the structural genes that code for the proteins

have a risk of cancer, but some of us are at greater risk

in the body; other genes have important roles as

than others.

regulatory genes, controlling cells directly and by switching other genes on and off, like a co-ordinated orchestra. Genes also direct the differentiation of cells into the different organs and specialised tissues of the body. For example, primitive bone marrow cells will become the mature red blood cells and white blood cells that we need. As we reach adult life these regulatory genes shut down cell division unless replacement cells are needed.

Errors can creep into the DNA sequence over time and a set of repair genes are essential to maintain our library of genes in good working order. These DNA repair genes (sometimes referred to as ‘caretaker genes’) can recognise mismatches between the two strands of our DNA. Normally they should correct the sequence by replacing the appropriate A, G, C or T genetic base, but

Figure 1 – The Structure of Genes Formed from DNA and

the repair genes themselves can mutate. If our regulatory

Packaged into Chromosomes

or the repair genes become mutated, cells become increasingly uncoordinated until an invasive cancer

Genes and Mutations

develops (see Figure 2). This explains why cancers tend to occur at an older age. There are now DNA based

28

It is the sequence of the four genetic bases (Adenine,

genetic tests that can identify these stepwise changes in

Guanine, Cytosine, Thymine) in the long double-stranded

specific genes (such as p53 and K-ras) as cells

20 years of cancer support in the community

Figure 2 – Gene Mutations that Progress in the

genetic risk in that family. About 5-10% of breast,

Development of a Cancer

ovarian, bowel and less so for prostate, uterus (womb), pancreas, bladder and kidney cancer may have an

change from normal through a hyperplastic (overgrowth)

inherited tendency.

cells and then into an invasive cancer.

A number of inherited genes including BRCA1, BRCA2, the DNA Mismatch Repair genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6,

Cancer Predisposition Genes and their Mutations

PMS2), and APC, p53, p16, PTEN are already known to predispose families to a higher cancer risk. There is on-

Family members who have inherited a cancer gene

going research into finding familial prostate and

mutation are already a step further along the pathway

pancreatic cancer genes. Some genes will be

that leads to cancer. They have a higher risk of

commoner than others, with variable effects on the risks

developing specific cancers at a younger than expected

of developing cancer. Lung, cervical and skin cancers

age. Tumour suppressor genes control cell division, acting

have other risk factors (such as smoking, UV light and

like the brakes on cell growth. Mutations in tumour

lifestyle) that are not inherited.

suppressor genes can occur spontaneously during your lifetime (acquired), or they may have been passed on

Why Are There Cancer Genes in the Jewish Community?

(inherited), from one parent. Tumour suppressor genes come in pairs, one inherited from each parent in the egg

About 1 person in 50 (2%) in the Jewish community carries

and sperm cell that made you. If there is a change or a

one of these cancer predisposition genes. These are

mutation in one copy of the tumour suppressor gene, this

particularly for breast and ovarian cancer (and less so for

alone does not cause a problem as there is a second

prostate and pancreatic cancer) linked to the gene

normal copy that acts like a back-up copy. The risk of

mutations: BRCA1 5382insG; BRCA1 185delAG; BRCA2

cancer only occurs where there is a second mutation

6174delT and the bowel cancer predisposition gene APC

that inactivates the second of the pair of tumour

I1307K. There are several ideas of why these mutations

suppressor genes. This is known as Knudson’s two-hit

may be more common in the Jewish community. This

cancer hypothesis. A cancer will develop when the

may be due to a selective advantage that in the past

second copy has been affected. There is a higher risk

allowed someone carrying this gene mutation to be

of this occurring and at a younger age, if you have inherited the first mutation in one of the pair of tumour suppressor genes. It is really just a matter of time before a spontaneous mutation (second-hit) occurs in the second copy of that gene pair. When both copies of the pair of genes have mutated or become inactivated, that tumour suppressor gene or DNA repair gene can no longer function and a cascading process of abnormal genetic changes occurs, (see Figure 3).

Your Family History Some families may have more than the expected number of relatives with cancer. There may have been a clustering of the same types of cancer occurring at a younger than usual age, or one person may have unfortunately developed several primary cancers.

Figure 3 – Knudson’s Two-Hit Hypothesis for Mutations in

These are pointers that there could be an increased

Tumour Suppressor Genes Cancer Causing Cancer 20 years of cancer support in the community

29

somehow fitter and survive adverse environments. Or it

history will be taken and the types of cancers in your family

may the founder effect that groups in the population are

confirmed from hospital records. You will be invited to

descended from a common ancestor who carried that

discuss your family history and given information about

gene mutation gene. Their descendents will then be

your risk and the options open to you. A family member

more likely to inherit and pass on that gene and a mutation

who has had a ‘genetic cancer’ maybe asked if they are

if this has been present. This is the case for other genes in

prepared to give a blood sample to test their DNA for

the Jewish community, for example Tay-Sachs and

alterations in one of the cancer genes. There are many

Gaucher’s disease. Gene mutations genes may become

considerations to be made before considering genetic

more common in a population by a random process

testing, particularly the implications for you and your family

known as genetic drift. This is simply the chance that over

and for insurance. This will be discussed in a genetic

generations some genes become more frequent whilst

counselling session before the test is taken. Full genetic

other genes are lost from that population. The strong

analysis can take two to three months or longer if extra

religious tradition of Jews to marry in and remain isolated

genes are tested.

from their neighbours will tend to preserve these genetic traits. This has favoured a number of gene mutations to

Testing For a Cancer Predisposition Gene

appear more frequent, particularly for Ashkenazi Jews from the shtetl communities of eastern Europe. This is why it is

Knowing that you carry a cancer predisposition gene

important to have bone marrow donors from within the

makes the development of some forms of cancer more

Jewish community that share a common genetic

likely, but not inevitable. A woman who carries a BRCA1 or

background and increase the chances of finding a

BRCA2 mutation may have up to a 70% risk of developing

compatible match.

breast cancer and a 40% risk of ovarian cancer in their lifetime. At first this can be difficult to come to terms with.

Cancer in the Family - What Should I Do?

You may feel worried about your health, concerned for your family, or even feel responsible even though it’s no

All of us may know of someone in our family with cancer.

one’s fault. This is quite understandable. Genetic

But if you have more than the expected number of

counselling and time spent discussing your options with

cancers, particularly breast, ovarian or bowel cancer you

experts together with the support of family and friends’

may want to look into this further. Ask your GP or contact

helps people to come to terms with this and make

CHAI , but the following may be pointers to an increased

decisions that are best for them . There are no right or

risk in your family history:

wrong things to do. Everyone is different in how they react.

• breast cancer at 40 or younger in a mother, sister or daughter • breast cancer at 50 or younger in two close relatives

You may be worried about your risk of cancer if a relative carries a cancer predisposition gene or just knowing that

including mother, aunt, grandmother, sister, daughter

there is an increased risk in the Jewish community. If you

or cousin

have not had a cancer yourself, then a detailed discussion

• breast cancer at any age in three or more close relatives

may be needed to discuss ‘predictive testing’. This is a blood test to see if you carry an inherited gene, putting

• ovarian cancer at any age

you at increased risk of developing cancer. After careful

• bowel cancer under the age of 45

discussion, weighing up the pros and cons you may be

• bowel cancer at any age in two close relatives

offered the genetic test. If your test shows that you have inherited the cancer predisposition gene mutation,

You cannot change your family!, but you can change your

additional screening will be suggested. Women carrying

lifestyle and diet to reduce your risk. Stop smoking, avoid

one of the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations may ask to

too much saturated fat, increase fibre in your diet, exercise

have their ovaries removed if they have completed their

and lose weight. If there is a moderate family history

family or may consider having a prophylactic mastectomy.

additional screening (mammography breast checks and

Everyone is different and everyone needs an individual

colonoscopy to check the bowel for polyps), may be

discussion with a genetic counsellor. Your test result can

suggested. Inherited cancers include breast, ovarian,

affect how you feel about your health in the future and it

bowel and less so prostate, pancreas, uterus (womb) and

can affect health and life insurance.

renal (kidney) cancers.

The Future If you are concerned that your family may be at higher risk of cancer, your GP can refer you to one of a national

It is a lot of information and a lot to think about, but there is

network of cancer genetics clinics . A detailed family

also optimism that increasing understanding of the genetic

30

20 years of cancer support in the community

basis of cancer will allow better advice about cancer

cancer risk are. Testing for the specific Jewish BRCA1 and

prevention, the development of more effective drugs and

BRCA2 gene mutations is being offered to selected families

treatments . There are families who carry these genes, but

before a cancer has shown in the family. This offers many

who have never developed a cancer. Their lifestyle and

opportunities, but also raises questions; ‘Do you want to

studies on their other genes (known as modifier genes) may

know?, What will you do if you find you are carrying a

tell us how we can better advise people at risk in the

cancer gene mutation? Will you tell your family?’ These

population from ever developing cancer. We already have

questions require a lot of discussion and careful thought.

new drug treatments such as Herceptin™ and PARP

Genetic screening across the Jewish community will

inhibitors that target the genetic changes in cancer cells

identify people who carry a cancer predisposition gene

with increasing effectiveness and less toxicity.

mutation, but who may never actually go on to develop a cancer. Chai, genetic counsellors and cancer experts

Research programmes are under way to identify who

are there to provide information, discuss your options and

might be carrying such genes and what their levels of

offer support.

Dr Ian Ellis MB BS FRCP BSc Born in Hendon (not far from Chai, but too many years before to mention!), educated in Hendon and then studied Medicine at the Middlesex Hospital, London.

He developed his future career interest in Genetics whilst taking a First Class Honours BSc degree in Biochemistry & Genetics at University College London.

Medical training London included the Hammersmith Hospital (renal medicine), Hospital for Nervous Diseases, Queen Square (neurology) and Northwick Park Hospital (paediatrics). Research and the Senior Registrar in Clinical Genetics at Guy’s Hospital, London. He established the UK National Tay-Sachs Screening Programme there and was awarded the Pentland Young Professional Award by Jewish Care in 1990 and the Dora Schuster Memorial Prize by the London Jewish Medical Society in recognition of this.

Appointed Senior Lecturer in Clinical Genetics at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool in 1994. Research into hereditary pancreatitis and familial pancreatic cancer, Jewish genetics and ethico-legal aspects of storing DNA and the sharing of genetic information. He was Clinical Director for Medical Genetics 2000-2005 and is now a Year Director in the Liverpool University Medical School as well as running a busy genetics clinic for diagnosis and genetic counselling. He has been a past president of the Liverpool Jewish Medical Society and treasurer of the Cancer Genetics Group.

Advisor to the UK Gauchers Association and invited steering member for the recently established Jewish Genetic Diseases UK group.

His hobbies are finding spare time and when he does, enjoying his family and the Lake District. He is married with two teenage children and lives in South Manchester.

20 years of cancer support in the community

31

Jane Conley, Julia Clarfield, Emma Myers, Claire Leek

Katy Jay & Philip Goldsmith

Rakhee James, Francesca Frank & Mandy Chester

Lionel Kustow, Cathy Tarn, Yifat Joseph, Ilana Kustow

Richard Frank, Lewis Chester, Sharon Coppel & Toby Coppel

Sharona & Simone Leibovitch

Tamara Craig & Claudia Magid

Francesca Frank, Yifat Joseph, Ilana Kustow, Rakhee James & Mandy Chester

Chai Promise Chai Promise, launched at a reception in Chai’s new Wohl Wing on Thursday 24th June 2010 is an initiative created by Natalie Chester, Emma Myers & Laura Avigdori.

Sharon Coppel, Gina Latner, Hanna Goldsmith

Inspired by the work of Chai Cancer Care, they are aiming to raise £100,000 for Chai’s Children & Family Service by asking their friends to host events in aid of Chai. To attend the events, guests pay a donation to the Chai Promise project and promise to host their own event.

Chai Promise events can be as simple or extravagant as the host chooses! From simple dinner parties to grand gala events, book clubs, BBQs, quiz nights or celebrations.

The Chai Promise launch evening, attended by over 40 people, has resulted in 20 subsequent events being planned in the community in the coming months. We anticipate that Chai Promise will become a community wide enterprise that will raise vital funds and awareness for Chai Cancer Care and specifically the work with Children & Families.

To host a Chai Promise event please contact Nicola Nathan at nicolanathan@chaicancercare.org

Vicki Silver, Amanda Kessler, Amanda Shelley

Laura Avigdori, Natalie Chester & Emma Myers

Dina’s Story: Vicky Brown

Dina Grunewald, Julie Cohn, Tami Grunewald & Ellie Grunwald

The recipes that are featured in Dina’s cookbook were

cookbook, design ideas and how many she was

originally collected to give to her best friend as a

planning to sell. Dina was even able to get the

wedding present – as she wanted her to have

printing of the cookbooks sponsored by her close

something “that was meaningful and would last

family and friends.

forever”. Dina asked her friends and family to share their much loved recipes. The response to her request was

Over the course of a year, Dina gradually explained to

amazing and she managed to collect over 100

people her intentions for the cookbook and found that

delicious recipes!

people were so moved by what she had embarked upon that they were incredibly supportive.

As the original cookbook was such a success, Dina and her friends decided to continue to gather new recipes

After the cookbooks had been printed, Dina set to work

to create another cookbook that she would produce

on selling them. She found that once again, her

and print. These would be sold to raise money for Chai,

amazing close circle of friends all came together and

a “cause that is close to her heart” and dedicated to

offered to either buy, or help her sell the books. With no

the memory of her dear mother.

real advertising of the cookbook, Dina was inundated with people asking to buy a copy. She puts the success

Having witnessed first hand the effect that cancer has

of the cookbook sales down to “word of mouth” and

on the patient as well as the family, Dina feels very

her “unbelievable friends, without whom this would

strongly about the importance of having professional

never have come to fruition.”

support available for the community through each stage of a cancer journey. Dina has experienced how

Chai witnessed ‘dynamo’ Dina when she attended

Chai supports the community and wanted to be able

the Community Fun Run, turning up with boxes full of

to help this vital lifeline continue to offer its ever growing

cookbooks. At the end of the day everyone was

services to all those that

astounded that Dina and her sisters had sold the lot.

need it.

Dina’s hard work has produced funds which will benefit Dina approached Chai

many Chai clients and she is an inspiration to all who

and met up with the team

come into contact with her.

to discuss the idea of

34

selling her cookbook.

To date Dina has sold 850 cookbooks and plans to

Dina’s determination and

continue to sell many more! Dina’s cookbooks are

organisation shone

currently on sale at Chai. To find out more or to

through as she explained

purchase a copy please call 0208 202 2211 and ask for

the concept of the

Danielle Satter, or email info@chaicancercare.org.

20 years of cancer support in the community

Lady Jakobovits z’l Chai Cancer Care exists because Lady Jakobovits z’l

difficult circumstances, felt the benefit of her positive

had the inspiration to introduce our co-founders

outlook and belief. She had the gift of inspiring people

Frances Winegarten z’l to Susan Shipman 20 years ago.

to find their inner strength and realise their full potential.

She instinctively knew that there would be a rapport between them and that they would be able share their experiences of living with cancer to help others in the community.

As the “Shadchan” (matchmaker) she was personally involved - from the very early meetings, some of them in her Hamilton Terrace home together with her

It is testament to her influence on our community that she is regarded by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her, with such deep affection and respect.

All of us at Chai Cancer Care will strive to continue to make her proud of the organisation she was instrumental in founding.

beloved husband Harav Lord Jakobovits z’l, to her very sudden and unexpected passing.

Lady J held the well deserved title of Honorary Patron of Chai, however, this does not fully reflect the very many roles she played within the organisation. A true friend and mentor, her years of communal experience and contacts were an invaluable source of support and guidance as Chai grew and developed.

Her warmth and compassion knew no limits. All who came into contact with her, sometimes under very

Lady Jakobovits z’l & Frances Winegarten z’l at the 2006 Chai Dinner

The Leora Kuhillow Courage Awards Chai Cancer Care is delighted to have been chosen as a charity partner for these inaugural awards in memory of Leora Kuhillow. The awards are generously supported by the Jewish Telegraph.

The adult awards will be presented at a prestigious dinner in Manchester on Sunday 13th March 2011 For more information please call Vicki Morris on 020 8202 2211or email at vickimorris@chaicancercare.org

20 years of cancer support in the community

35

Lighten the load – One stress you can relieve!

Vicky Brown Current fashion dictates

their peculiar choices, many slightly insane stories

that we must carry huge

would come out the woodwork.

handbags – and we all know that the

If I may offer a logical reason that we women carry

bigger the bag, the more

such random objects in our bags, I would have to go

we simply have to tote

down the psychological route. Maybe we have all

around with us! This is not

had some terrible experience in the past that has left us

science nor mathematics,

with the thought “Oi vey, I’m never leaving the house

but a female trait that

again without …..!”.

seems to be prevalent around the globe.

So where is the line drawn, how do we know how much is too much to carry and when do we start lightening

I find that although my

the load?

handbag is always huge, the habit I still have is that

Research shows that some handbags fully loaded can

I overfill it. This isn’t because Prada tells me to pack

weigh up to 15lbs. My interpretation is that whilst looking

everything in sight and then schlep it about the whole

fabulous with my fashionably large bag I’m also having

day, they just tell me to carry it and in doing so I will

a good workout. If only eating too much nosh had the

look elegant and fashionable. My problem seems to

same effect!

be that everything in my bag seems to fall into the essential categories of either the ‘must haves’ or the

I found out, however that I couldn’t be more wrong

‘might needs’.

when I asked Chai’s Physiotherapist Stephen Parkus for a clinical view.

The ‘must haves’ are the essence of my being that I carry, always. Even if I take out a smaller bag I will

The Health & Safety Executive report that back pain

always find room for my purse (also fashionably

is more common when lifting heavy items;

oversized!), blackberry, diary, keys, make up, perfume

“Carrying loads awkwardly or one handed; repetitive

and business cards. If all of these items do not squash

tasks; bending or crouching; lifting when tired.”

into a smaller bag, rather than lightening the load I will upgrade the bag and go for a larger one.

Although there is no such thing as a completely ‘safe’ lift, for an average woman, the maximum

The ‘might needs’ are those little things that I might

recommended weight to lift from the floor is 3kg.

need when I’m out, for example, an umbrella and hair

This assumes that the bag is lifted correctly.

spray. Time after time I have found myself caught in the rain in need of an umbrella, and hair spray to fix the

If it is really necessary to carry a large handbag,

frizzy bird’s nest that my hair had moulded into. This has

try to reduce the weight of the handbag itself to no

led to me carrying the two everywhere in order to

more than 1 to 2 lbs. Then try to minimise how much

prevent such embarrassment ever again.

stuff you’re putting inside, and ditch anything you don’t need. If you must carry your bag on the shoulder,

Compared to some, I would say that an umbrella and

alternate from one shoulder to another, every

hair spray are quite common for a woman to carry,

15 minutes.

however I am well aware that some people’s ‘might

36

needs’ can include everything from a spare pair of

Ideally the weight should be distributed evenly across

heels to the kitchen sink. If most women looked through

your body, which means the best option is something

their handbags and listed their ‘might needs’ and

like a rucksack, or pulling a case on wheels for

searched for a reason they carry them in order to justify

heavier items.

20 years of cancer support in the community

Here are a few tips to keep your handbag from being

• De-clutter your purse of small change - clear it out

a burden:

– use it up or better still donate it to Chai

• Weigh your handbag. You might be amazed by how much it weighs!

Exercising regularly is also advisable. If you have a

• Think through the day ahead and pack accordingly.

strong core from exercise like pilates, you’re much less

• Pack a smaller make-up bag with a few essentials.

likely to hurt yourself.

You’ll only have to touch up your make-up during the day so leave the foundation and brushes

So ladies... when choosing a handbag, for the sake of

at home.

your spine, less is always better!

Stephen Parkus B.Sc (Hons) MCSP SRP Chartered Physiotherapist When to lighten the load?

If you look at someone from the side, their spine should be a gentle S-shaped curve.

From behind, their spine should be a straight line.

Anything that pushes or pulls the spine away from this ideal shape can cause strain in the spine, and the more often it happens, the more the strain builds up. This can lead to headaches, pain in the neck, upper or lower back.

Carrying handbags that are too heavy is one such cause of strain!

The trend for oversized bags means there is more space to fill. The bigger the bag, the more tempting it is to fill it.

The Daily Mail in 2007 quoted a study which found that women today carry

twice as much in their handbags as their mothers used to. Mum might have had a coin purse, a powder compact, a couple of tissues and a house key.

Increasingly, women are carrying more gadgets such as iPods and mobile phones, which has created a demand for larger handbags. A survey in the Independent in 2008 showed that the average weight of a woman’s handbag has increased by 38% over five years to 2.4 kg (5lbs). In some cases the weight of a full handbag can be up to 7kg (15 lbs). As well as packing more inside, the handbags themselves are often heavy.

Carrying a bag on one shoulder leads to improper weight distribution across the neck, shoulder and back, causing strain in the joints, muscles and ligaments of the spine, which can lead to pain.

As a result, more and more women are requiring treatment for neck, shoulder and back pain.

20 years of cancer support in the community

37

Tracy-Ann Oberman “ I am convinced that the size of a womans handbag is a corellation to where she is at in her life and whether she has procreated or not.

The bag becomes a metaphor as it were . Before having my daughter I could walk around with a tiny little clutch smaller than my hand containing: one lipstick, one stick of chewing gum, a chub key and a small mobile phone. Since having my daughter my bag of choice is now ENORMOUS. This summer I have a large Gerard Darel leather fringed one, large enough to carry: an iphone, a battery pack for an iphone, a script, a large make up bag ... (mainly containing concealer for under eye baggage), a filo-fax, a list of things I have forgotten to do, a notebook, and three sets of keys plus a minnie mouse set of crayons and pens, babywipes, a spare pair of my daughters knickers, a barbie doll and most importantly her “mummy- cloth comforter” for when it all gets too much.

Although I’m not sure who needs the comforter most at times.

Her or me!”

Olivia Phillips Freelance Fashion Writer & Blogger: “My bag is the most physical extension of me possible - it holds the telltale signs of who I really am inside a glossy case of who I want to be.

My Chloe Milton might look sophisticated, but in reality is crammed with month-old receipts, fluff and a dog-eared and rather embarrassing copy of Twilight....” www.newfavouritething.com

Natalie-Anne Hasseck Maureen Lipman “Over the years I have minimised what I carry. My bag is a flat, over the body one and in it I have my phone, keys, chequebook, purse with cards, freedom pass, the occasional lipstick and a poo bag (for the dog of course). I may also have a card from my secretary detailing where I should be!”

Freelance Fashion Stylist and Writer, has written for W Magazine, Grazia and Women’s Wear Daily www.layersandswathes.com “The truth is that the design of handbags stemming from the runway are getting smaller and boxier. However in terms of sales, the larger handbags and aptly titled ‘holdalls’ will always outsell the small bags because women simply cannot leave the house without their ‘survival kit’.”

Jan Shure JC Fashion Editor and co-founder of www.60andsensational.co.uk “I have been a handbag hoarder (in both senses, having squirreled away far more handbags than I can possibly use, and stowing far more in the one I am currently using than is healthy for my shoulders or arms) for most of my adult life.

Currently, apart from the obvious contents (overstuffed Mulberry wallet, Blackberry, keys, lip salve, Tom Ford lipstick, Oyster card, emery board, sunnies, glasses, pens, hairbrush – that is all obvious, isn’t it?), there is a copy of today’s Times, a copy of this week’s JC, a teeny telescopic umbrella, dozens of business cards (for the JC and for my website 60&Sensational – www.60andsensational.co.uk), a shiny little hairslide belonging to my granddaughter Sadie, a small toy car belonging to my grandson Henry, notes from a talk I gave three weeks ago, invitations to press events that have taken place in the last few weeks, a map of Vancouver and a bottle of Chanel Particuliere. I do clear my bag out every few weeks, you have caught me at a moment when I haven’t had time for a clean-up.

Which is why – at various times in my life – the people who have been the recipients of a large part of my disposable income have been physiotherapists, osteopaths and masseurs. But try to part me from the contents of my handbag and I will feel bereft: my bag is my on-the-road office, my security blanket and – naturally – a status symbol of sorts. So, my future is diary dates with masseurs and physios and, of course, the Smythson sale… “

38

20 years of cancer support in the community

Advice and Advocacy at Chai When a client comes to Chai their main reason is to

systems that often seem impenetrable within the NHS.

seek help in dealing with cancer – whether it be a new diagnosis, coping with treatment, dealing with a

Chai has in-house expertise on statutory benefits from

prognosis or rehabilitation. Whatever the reason there

Anne Shine. Anne will advise on what benefits can be

are often other areas within clients’ lives that require

applied for – some of which are not means tested –

support and advice. Chai finds that in order to allow

and sits with clients if

patients, their families and friends to focus on living with

required, to fill out the

the cancer, these often intrusive other issues require

lengthy and complex

attention. Chai has been building expertise for years so

application forms. Anne is

that we can either help with other areas of concern to

also very knowledgeable

clients, or source somebody who can.

about nursing and palliative care homes and

Expertise

can provide information

From its beginning Chai has been a source of

and support to clients Anne Shine

information when clients need to find a medical

negotiating this provision.

specialist, find out about a clinical trial or want advice on coping with treatment. Over the years we have also

We are fortunate that we have professionals within the

built up comprehensive lists of where to find wigs,

community that, through Chai, are able to provide pro

providers of semi-permanent make-up to disguise loss

bono financial advice on running household accounts,

of eyebrows and eyelashes, domiciliary opticians and

basic probate advice and confidence coaching for

hearing care, suppliers of underwear for after

returning to work.

mastectomies, insurers that will cover cancer patients for travel, local care agencies, nursing homes, dietary

Advocacy

and nutritional advice and so the list goes on.

Elaine, Anne and our Client Services Managers provide advocacy for patients and families when dealing with

Our Chief Executive Elaine Kerr advises clients - both

agencies. For instance, Chai can support clients in

patients and carers - on what services they are entitled

Multidisciplinary Team Meetings at hospitals and

to from the NHS and social services, and how to get the

hospices, when care packages are being decided,

best from private medical care. Elaine ensures that

or negotiate with care homes and social services on

clients understand and cope with the processes and

clients’ behalf.

Lyn Tobin Lyn Tobin worked as an adviser at the Citizens Advice Bureau for five years, followed by 15 years’ experience at Employee Assistance Programmes using her counselling and advisory skills to assist clients with benefits, education, consumer, employment, divorce and discrimination. She has a BA in social psychology and social policy.

Chai is able to make referrals to a range of specialist providers for our clients, such as social services, palliative care teams, genetics services, voluntary and care agencies.

NEW COMPREHENSIVE ADVISORY SERVICE We recently commenced a new advisory service run

by Lyn Tobin – who we are extremely fortunate to have.

Lyn advises clients on a wide range of issues such as debt, family issues, housing, benefits, employment, discrimination, children, consumer issues, travel and sourcing carers. Lyn has access to a multitude of external resources which are of great benefit to Chai’s clients.

All the above services can be accessed by calling Chai on 0808 808 4567, or 020 8202 2211.

20 years of cancer support in the community

39

A Year in the Life of Chai...

October 2009

September 2009 7th Annual Outlook 10k Countryside Walk

Natalie Shipman Memorial Lecture

Over 60 people walked through Sarratt, Flaunden and Chenies and other picturesque villages raising a total of £10,000.

Chai’s first lecture held in Manchester was the annual Natalie Shipman Memorial Lecture.

The Deacon’s Charity Poker Night Paul Deacon organised a Charity Poker Night at the River Card Cub 50 players battled it out for the top 3 cash prizes. The evening raised £1,500.

Golf Fore Chai 2009 The Golf Fore Chai Committee held their first ever golf tournament at Hartsbourne Country Club.

The day included a buffet breakfast, a round of golf with a Ferrari 360 as the Hole In One prize. Followed by a three-course lunch with a raffle and auction. The day raised over £32,000.

December 2009 Chai Bridge Lunch Due to its popularity Chai held two bridge lunches in one year.

Over 70 people attended the one in December raising over £3,500.

November 2009 The 2nd Chai Table Tennis Competition Lindsay & Simon Davidson organised yet another successful Table Tennis Tournament held at Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue the event.

Attended by over 100 people, with 51 participating in the tournament it was an exciting and fun evening all round. The evening raised over £13,000.

Volunteer and staff Chanukah lunch at Chai

January 2010 Marathon runner’s reception

Outlook Committee Theatre Night

All of Chai’s 2009 Marathon Runners were invited to Chai so we could thank them in person and they could see how their sponsorship money is being spent.

The Outlook Committee hired the New End Theatre for a private viewing of ‘Hetty Feinstein’s Wedding Anniversary. The theatre was packed full with over 80 people and the night raised over £1,000.

Chai Life’s Winter Soiree in Soho Chai Cancer Care’s young business committee held its second sell-out event at Graphic Bar in Soho. Over 200 guests enjoyed Chai cocktails, a guest DJ and Carmelli’s doughnuts. The event raised over £6,000.

February 2010 Outlook Committee Bridge Lunch The lunch was held at Badgers Croft, Totteridge for the first time. Over 80 people attended and the day raised over £2,000.

March 2010

February 2010 From the Shtetl to La Scala Hendon Synagogue played host to a concert featuring Tsudik Grunwald for his first ever UK appearance. He was accompanied by Orad Katz, an 11 year old child prodigy. 400 people attended the concert organised my Melvyn Carter and Michael Kallenberg. £2,500 was raised.

Lady Captain’s Charity Day at Dyrham Park Golf Club

From the Shtetl to La Scala An evening of popular Jewish music, and operatic arias Performed by:

Menachem Bristowski, world renowned pianist

Tsudik Greenwald, Israel’s rising star, making his UK debut

Accompanied by child prodigy Orad Katz, 11

Ruth Goldsobel, Lady Captain at Dyrham Park hosted a ladies lunch in aid of Chai Cancer Care. Journalist and ex editor of Cosmopolitan Linda Kelsey spoke to a packed out room. The lunch raised over £6,500.

Programme of music devised by Israeli producer, Levie Kanes (www.cantorscenter.com)

Sunday 21st February 2010 at 7.30 pm Hendon Synagogue, Raleigh Close, London NW4 2TA

Night on Broadway Watersmeet theatre, Rickmansworth

All proceeds to Chai Cancer Care www.chaicancercare.org Registered Charity No. 1078956

April 2010

May 2010

Three peak challenge by “3 of the best”

Glasgow launch at the Walton CommunityCentre

Community Fun Run

Chai launched its new service in Glasgow.

Chai had 68 runners this year raising £10,000.

Climbing the 3 peaks in 24 hours -Ben Nevis; Scotland, Scafell Pike; Lake District & Snowdon; Wales. Rasied £8350 for Chai Cancer Care.

Virgin London Marathon Three of Chai’s five marathon runners, Benjamin Moss, David Rose & Glenda Aussenberg. Jeremy Carson and Brian Gordon also ran, and in total the runners raised over £12,500.

June 2010 Club 18 Reception

New Wohl Wing opening at Chai (See page 22)

A reception was held at Chai to celebrate five years of Club 18’s successful golf tournaments.

Chai Promise at Chai (See page 32) Staff and Volunteer party for the opening of the Wohl Wing

Tea at the Ritz at Chai Club 18 Annual Golf Tournament

The All Out For Chai Committee held an afternoon tea at Chai with a speaker talking about fashion from the 1920s. The afternoon raised £2,000.

The Club 18 Golf Committee held its 5th Annual golf tournament for over 90 people raising over £25,000.

Chai Life presents ‘Sax In the City’

Chai Five - ‘Test your Chai Q’ Quiz night

Chai Life committee held a night of blues, jazz and soul at Albannach bar in Trafalgar Square raising £2,000.

Our Chai Five committee ran a school themed supper quiz at Hertsmere Jewish Primary School, over 70 people attended raising over £1,000.

The Effects of Cancer on Relationships and Intimacy Chai clients come to see us from diagnosis onwards

relationship. People then put off dealing with their

and naturally their most important objective is to get

feelings, and talking about intimacy with their partner,

the cancer into remission. However, once that has been

as it can feel like their privacy is being invaded.

achieved they may need help to learn how to carry on

Communication is essential for any relationship to

with their lives.

work, and Chai can help a patient and their partner to think about how best to keep it going. It is therefore

Cancer and the treatment for cancer can have a

important to be able to talk about this matter

devastating effect on peoples’ lives, both physically

confidentially, with an independent, professional

and mentally. The surgery and the chemotherapy drugs

person, in order to help the patient and their

can have an adverse impact too. A patient’s

partner avoid letting the cancer destroy the intimacy

perception of their own body image may change and

in their relationship.

this in itself can alter their relationship with their partner, and cause distress to both of them. Talking about intimacy in such circumstances can sometimes be embarrassing, or difficult, and make either or both of the partners feel awkward.

Health professionals may not think to ask their patient whether their cancer treatment is impacting upon their relationship with their partner, and may be unaware that it is affecting the patient’s state of mind. Whilst the physical symptoms of the cancer and its treatment can be dealt with by those health professionals, the emotional symptoms need to be separately understood and addressed.

It can often be hard for a couple to find the right words

“Whilst the physical symptoms of the cancer and its treatment can be dealt with by health professionals, the emotional symptoms need to be separately understood and addressed”

to use when starting to talk about their physical Chai has professional counsellors, trained specifically in relationship and intimacy issues, who support patients and their partners through the difficult period in complete confidence. One of our counsellors, who has a degree and diploma in psychology, specialises in issues relating to intimacy. She lectures internationally to both experienced professionals and post-graduate students on the issues that particularly impact on intimacy within relationships.

We are fortunate to have additional counsellors who work with relationship issues and also specialise in issues relating to intimacy.

Our counsellors have been able to utilise those skills in helping numerous clients and their partners through the difficulties brought on by cancer and its treatment.

42

20 years of cancer support in the community

The Natalie Shipman Memorial Lectures

Prof. Albert Singer, Susan Shipman & Prof. Gordon Jayson

The Natalie Shipman Memorial Lectures are held in

and explained some of the challenges involved in

memory of Natalie Shipman z”l who passed away just

treating ovarian cancer. The lecture culminated with a

before her 8th birthday. Natalie was the daughter of

variety of questions from the audience, which were

Chai’s co-founder Susan Shipman.

posed anonymously.

2009

2010

The 20th lecture was for the first time held in

Living With and Beyond Cancer

Manchester at Christie NHS Foundation Trust. Professor Albert Singer, Consultant Gynaecologist travelled from

Keynote Speaker – Dr Adrian Tookman

London especially to again chair this annual event. The

Consultant in Palliative Care Medicine, Medical

auditorium was full to hear Professor Gordon Jayson talk

Director of Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust and

about The Latest Developments in the Treatment of

Director of Marie Curie Hospice Hampstead

Ovarian Cancer.

Monday 11th October 2010 Professor Jayson is a Professor of Medical Oncology at Christie, and has a particular interest in biological

Chai Cancer Care Centre

research, leading clinical trials for the Paterson Institute

144-146 Great North Way, London NW4 1EH

and Cancer Research UK. He highlighted the risk factors for women and spoke about awareness of signs that

Admission free by ticket only.

may lead to early detection. Professor Jayson went on

Please call Vicky Brown to book your place

to speak about new treatments and ongoing research,

on 020 8202 2211.

20 years of cancer support in the community

43

Appealing to the Appetite: Healthy Eating Recipes “The occasion of the opening of the inspirational Wohl Wing and furthermore spending time in the Whole Foods Store in Kensington the following day, gave me inspiration to put together a few ideas to appeal to the appetite.”

Artichoke/Hearts of Palm and Almond Soup The almond gives the flavour and works as a natural thickener to this delicious soup and adds protein too.

Serve either hot or chilled.

Serves 8 Ingredients: 2 cans of artichoke hearts or 2 cans of hearts of palm 2ozs (50g) butter or 2tbsp oil 3 shallots – sliced 15floz (425 ml) vegetable stock 1 pint (600 ml) milk 2oz (50g) ground almonds salt and black pepper toasted flaked almonds and dill when serving.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Drain artichokes/hearts of palm, reserve two and slice others. Put in a small pan with half the butter or oil. Cover and cook gently for 10 minutes.

In a medium soup pan cook the shallots gently in the remaining butter or until golden. Then add stock and milk.

Bring to the boil and simmer for 4 minutes before adding the ground almonds and cooked artichokes/hearts of palm.

Puree in a blender until smooth. Return to the pan and leave for several hours.

When ready to serve, add the reserved artichokes/hearts of palm, cut into thin slices and add to the soup.

Serve hot or well chilled, garnished with the toasted flakes almonds and scissored dill.

Puy lentils and Celeriac with Rocket, Pine nuts and Mint A hearty combination of flavours, served on its own or as part of a buffet.

1 packet puy lentils (ready to eat) 1 celeriac 3tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp hazelnut oil 1 ½ tbsp of each cider and balsamic vinegar 1 small bunch mint 1 bunch rocket 50g (2oz) pine nuts seasoning 1.

2.

3.

4.

44

Empty contents of packet of lentils into a pan and heat gently then mix hot lentils with the oils, vinegars and seasonings.

Peel and cut the celeriac into thin chips and cook in boiling water for 6 – 8 minutes, drain.

In a bowl mix the celeriac, lentils, half of the chopped mint and half of the pine nuts.

In a large serving dish throw over the washed rocket and pile on the celeriac mix.

Garnish with the rest of the mint and pine nuts.

20 years of cancer support in the community

Sula Leon Sula has lived in Manchester all her life. Having qualified as a Home Economist from the famous Elizabeth Gaskell College she followed a wide ranging culinary career bringing pleasure to all generations. Her cookery school in partnership with Evelyn Rose, ‘Master Classes in Food and Wine’ was a sell out for 20 years out of which emanated 2 best selling books – Master Classes for Creative Cooks and Weekend Cook.

Sula’s artistic skills were best exemplified when she prepared the food sets for TV blockbusters ‘Brideshead Revisited’ and ‘Jewel in the Crown’ alongside many other TV series.

Ever willing to give her time to the voluntary sector Sula has raised considerable sums of money for charity by giving her ever-popular demonstrations. She has been involved in the setting up of the ‘Cocktail Crew’ at the Christie Hospital, working with the dietician preparing replacement food and drink for patients with swallowing and eating difficulties.

Sula is a Magistrate, has 4 children and many grandchildren and is married to Anthony, a chartered accountant and Deputy Lieutenant.

Two Smoothies designed for when you are not eating well or are trying to increase or maintain your weight 1. Tropical Tingle 1 carton chilled orange flavoured Ensure 2 floz (50ml) lemonade top up with pineapple juice to taste Whisk ingredients together, pour into 2 glasses and serve.

2. Chocolate Dream 1 carton chocolate flavoured Ensure 1 block vanilla ice cream Liquidise all ingredients together then pour into a glass and float extra cubes of ice cream on top.

NB: keep cartons in the fridge and when prepared drink within 24 hours.

Spinach and Herb Frittata This is basically a quiche without the pie-crust. An ideal accompaniment would be a dollop of crème fraiche mixed with finely sliced cucumber and mint.

Ingredients: 1lb (500g) fresh spinach 2 tbsp oil 4 eggs a bunch of spring onions 3 tbsp chopped parsley 2 tbsp chopped mint salt black pepper nutmeg.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Microwave washed spinach for 3 minutes. Remove and coarsely chop.

In a bowl lightly beat the eggs, spinach, finely sliced spring onions, herbs and seasonings.

Heat oil in a large fry pan, pour in spinach mixture and cook on a low heat for 5 minutes until bottom is set.

Transfer the pan to under a hot grill and cook until puffed and golden.

Turn out onto a serving plate and serve in slices – hot or cold.

20 years of cancer support in the community

45

Year in Fundraising – 2010 We want to take this opportunity to thank all of you

encouraging our existing supporters to consider

who have chosen to support Chai Cancer Care’s

remembering Chai in their Will. What a wonderful way

fundraising campaign in 2010.

of helping to ensure that future generations of cancer patients and their families can continue access the

As Chai receives no statutory funding we are entirely

very best advice and specialist support.

reliant on, and particularly grateful to, the continued generosity of the UK Jewish community. You ensure that

Our heartfelt thanks goes out to the many gracious

Chai can continue to meet the growing demand for

and generous people who this year have foregone

our expertise and specialised care, and develop

their own gifts to nominate Chai as their recipient for

innovative new cancer support services throughout

Commemorative Giving. By marking special occasions

the UK.

in their lives or the lives of their loved ones this way they are able to have a lasting impact on the lives of those

We truly appreciate our loyal Benefactors & Patrons

affected by a cancer diagnosis.

who play such a significant part in funding Chai’s many great accomplishments over the years.

If you would like further information about

In an effort to make recognition for the community’s

contact Sariet Pretz on 020 8457 2071 or sariet@

generosity more accessible, 2010 has seen the launch

chaicancercare.org

Commemorative Giving or making a donation please

of our Friends campaign, enabling us to publically acknowledge donations of £2,500. Any donation can

The brave individuals who have undertaken heroic

be spread over the course of a year as a standing

Sponsored Activities in efforts to raise money for Chai

order, making it more financially manageable to

are a source of great inspiration to us all. From

become our Friend should you wish!

Marathon running (or walking), climbing 3 mountains in

Legacy income is so vital to any charity. It provides

grateful for all of your endeavours.

24 hours, to skydiving and dance-athons – we are truly crucial funding enabling forward planning and the innovation and development of new services. In 2010 Chai has officially launched a Legacy Campaign

ogether Chai Cancer Care, 144 -146 Great North Way, London NW4 1EH Telephone: 020 8202 2211 Fax: 020 8202 2111 Email: together@chaicancercare.org Web: www.chaicancercare.org Freephone helpline: 0808 808 4567 Designed and produced by Creative & Commercial Edited by Vicky Brown Printed by Exco For editorial enquiries email together@chaicancercare.org No article or photo published in ogether can be reproduced in part or in full, electronically or by any other means, without prior permission of Chai Cancer Care. © Chai Cancer Care 2010 Registered Charity No.1078956

46

20 years of cancer support in the community

We count ourselves as fortunate to have a number of fabulous committees who regularly coordinate fundraising events in aid of Chai. We look forward to working with you again in the coming year.

However, if you are not the committee type – but would like to do something for Chai – please talk to us about Chai Promise (see page 32). Through Chai Promise, you will be raising vital funds for Chai’s Children & Family Support Service whilst participating in a community initiative.

Nicola Nathan

Check out Chai’s new website. By November you can post your own pictures of Chai events and activities and also can set up your own fundraising page. This will work much like Just Giving but Chai will not have to incur any third party charges – meaning all your hard earned sponsorship will directly fund Chai’s services. Donating online has never been easier.

Please contact either of us for all your fundraising enquiries on 020 8202 2211.

Thank you for your ongoing support,

Danielle Satter

Nicola and Danielle

Name: Address:

Postcode:

Tel:

Email:

Become a friend of Chai Learn more about leaving a Legacy Payment details I/We will pay by Standing Order £

per month (Chai will contact you with the relevant information)

I/we enclose a cheque/charity voucher made payable to ‘Chai Cancer Care’ Payment by Credit/Debit Card: Amex

CAF Card

Visa

MasterCard

Maestro

Card number: Expiry date: Issue number:

Security code:

(last 3 digits on reverse of card, 4 digits for Amex)

Please send me: A receipt by post/email

Details on leaving a legacy

Details about sponsoring one of our many services

Gift Aid declaration Please treat this (future donations and all donations made in the six years prior to the date of declaration) as Gift Aid Donations. (You must pay an amount of income tax and/or Capital Gains Tax for this tax year at least equal to the tax that we will claim from HMRC.) Please notify Chai if you change your name or home address.

Chai Cancer Care will not pass on any of your details to a third party (in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998).

Signature:

Date: 20 years of cancer support in the community

47

Cancer

doesn’t care We do. And this is what we do.

Advisory Services Advocacy and Information Citizens Advice Bureau Financial and Legal Guidance Jewish Perspectives on Cancer Medical Connections Nutritional and Dietary Advice and Information Resources and Information Children and Family Service Group Activities Art Workshop Laughter Clinic Meditation Pilates Post Breast Surgery Exercise Group Wednesday Social Afternoons Yoga Support Groups BRCA Gene Carriers’ Group Breast Buddies Groups for Cancer Patients Groups for Parents of Cancer Patients

Counselling Individuals, couples & families Genetic Issues Relationship Issues Telephone Counselling Therapies Manual Lymphatic Drainage Physiotherapy Complementary Therapies Acupuncture Aromatherapy Foot Care Service Healing Hot Stones Indian Head Massage Reflexology Reiki Shiatsu Therapeutic Massage Home Support Service Volunteer Services

Chai’s services are available at sites within London, Essex, Manchester, Glasgow and in clients’ own homes.

If you are not close to a Chai centre we can provide counselling, nutritional and advisory services by telephone.

To find out more please call our freephone helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit www.chaicancercare.org Chai Lifeline Cancer Care Registered Charity No.1078956.