Together 2020

2020/21 issue 15

Anniversary Edition

YE ARS THAT CHANGE D THE CONVERSATION

AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY Pioneering Ser vices Caring Through Challenges Breaking Taboos

Chai Cancer Care

A Welcome Message If the last few months have shown us anything it is how to live in the moment, something our clients can so identify with.

It seems such an obvious thing, a cliché even, but how much more aware have we all become of the value and importance of family, friends and community, of the support we need, and the support we can give each other? Reaching the milestone of Chai’s 30th anniversary provides an opportunity to take stock and acknowledge how those same values are at the very heart of Chai.

Our co-founders, my mother Frances Winegarten z’l and Susan Shipman took their personal experiences of living with the impact of cancer and channelled their drive and passion into creating a place where, for the first time, people could turn for support. Throughout this issue, we witness the results of their extraordinary vision. You can chart Chai’s history from its one original service to 64 today, how we’ve changed the language around cancer, the latest medical advances and the moving evidence from clients about an approach that has transformed the landscape of supportive cancer care.

The organisation that might once have been viewed by some as a peripheral outpost of tea and sympathy is now regarded as a nationwide source of knowledge and innovative services whose influence is felt worldwide.

To reach this point we have been blessed to be able to count on the expertise, professionalism and dedication of so many who make up the Chai family: our

President The Rt. Hon. Lord Young of Graffham CH DL Founder Presidents Susan Shipman Frances Winegarten z’l Chairman Louise Hager Chief Executive Lisa Steele

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Trustees Louise Hager Jonathan Hodes Lady Kalms MBE Richard Segal Susan Shipman Dr Adrian Tookman Philip Weinstein Lord Young CH DL Honorary Patrons Maureen Lipman CBE Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis

Medical Patrons Prof Michael Baum Prof Michael Brada Dr Rachel Craig Dr Niki Davies Prof Michael Douek Prof Andrew Eder Prof Rosalind Eeles Dr Ian Ellis Mr Daren Francis Miss Joanna Franks Prof Anthony Goldstone CBE Prof Daniel Hochhauser

Trustees, Medical Advisory Panel and Advisory Board, our teams of counsellors, therapists, staff, fundraisers and volunteers.

Individually and collectively they have enabled Chai to give its essential, lifeenhancing support to tens of thousands of people over three decades.

Over time, we have had our challenges but it is fair to say this year has been exceptional with a drop of more than 40% in our income because of cancelled events due to Covid-19. That alone would be a huge concern. We also have to factor in the heartbreaking effects of delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment caused by the pandemic. This has already led to a significant increase in clients with more complex needs and, sadly, this will be the pattern for the foreseeable future.

While the seriousness of the situation cannot be overstated, the community has always walked by our side and we have faith that it will continue to do so. Your generosity – from the smallest bake sale to our largest donation has, over the years enabled us to meet the demand for our specialised services. As we look ahead, our mission remains the same, to be a constant support amidst the uncertainty of cancer.

You have been our active partners in this journey and with heartfelt thanks we pay tribute to your vital role in all that we have achieved together.

Louise Hager Chairman

Prof Gordon Jayson Mr Amir Kaisary Dr Daniel Krell Dr Jonathan Krell Dr David Landau Prof Jonathan Ledermann Dr Jane Neerkin Prof Gordon Rustin Prof Karol Sikora Prof Albert Singer Dr Adrian Tookman Dr Laura Tookman

Advisory Board Brian Brick Jo Coleman Alan Fell Jonathan Freedman Michael Glass Diane Kenwood Alexandra Maurice Robert Prevezer Marc Samuels Dr Adrian Tookman

Together Magazine 2020/21

CONTE NT S

3 0 T H AN N IVE RSARY E D I T I O N

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14

The pros and cons of proton beam therapy

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16

An architect of innovation

A constant through uncertain times As Covid-19 continues, Chief Executive Lisa Steele explains Chai’s strategy for the future

Caring through Covid The extraordinary efforts of our team to care for clients during lockdown

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Can this highly-targeted treatment deliver the results it promises?

War veteran, retail giant, family man and Chai hero.

Gerald Fogel’s legacy is written into our history

30 years that changed the conversation How Chai has influenced the direction of supportive cancer care through service innovations and campaigns

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Getting to know the new me

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hen cancer enters your life, W it can be hard to recognise yourself. We hear from four clients about how Chai helped them through

A virtual moment to remember in Manchester

18 19

26

Finding peace of mind

27

Service Spotlight: Chai for him

How to tackle the topic of death

Services designed specifically for men

28

Speaking up about oral cancer

30

Smart ideas

The Big C What does the letter stand for?

Clients in our 30th anniversary campaign tell us

The Moment Dinner

24

Highlights and photos from an evening that raised the roof

Fit for treatment?

A new study aims to show the importance of exercise in cancer treatment and outcomes

Why mouth cancer is on the rise – and how to reduce the risk

On the catwalk and on Instagram, our fashion events for adults and kids were sell-outs

32

The year at Chai

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Ways to give

How the community stepped up.

From six months to 90-years-old, everyone pulled their weight!

All the different ways you can donate to Chai

The online dinner that captured the stars!

2020/21 issue 15

CHAI CANCER CARE Requests the pleasure of your company online for

Anniversary Edition

The 2020 Natalie Shipman Memorial Lecture

YE ARS

NEW STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING OUTCOMES IN OVARIAN CANCER

THAT CHANGE D THE CONVERSATION

AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Keynote Speaker: Gordon Jayson Professor of Medical Oncology The Christie NHS Foundation Trust

Date: Wednesday 21 October 2020 Lecture begins: 8pm There will be a Q&A session after the lecture

Please email talia.berkley@chaicancercare.org to register your interest The lecture is free

Pioneering Ser vices Caring Through Challenges Breaking Taboos

emmes

F O U N D AT I O N

This edition of together is generously sponsored by The Emmes Foundation Editor: Deborah Wald Design: Creative & Commercial © Chai Cancer Care 2020 3

Chai Cancer Care

A constant through uncertain times

We didn’t think it could happen to us, neither how it would shake up our lives. But Covid-19, like cancer, didn’t discriminate how or who it affected. As we all take on unforeseen changes, CEO Lisa Steele explains how Chai is adapting

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even months on from the start of Covid-19 in the UK, the scientific community continues to discover more about this pernicious virus, learning how it evolves and what its long-term effects are. Potential vaccines are cause for optimism but the world is alert to spikes or even another coronavirus emerging. We’ve all had to take on extraordinary changes to our lives and somehow keep going in a changed reality. How long will it all last? Will we ever return to the ‘old normal’? Will it come back? We don’t have complete answers yet, but these questions are not unfamiliar to us at Chai as they echo so closely what we hear from clients impacted by a cancer diagnosis. We understand all too well how confusion and uncertainty feels for people. Such are the parallels between cancer and Covid-19.

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Those two words became linked very early on in the pandemic because for cancer patients, surgery and treatments were largely halted. The knock-on effect on patients and their families was colossal in many cases. Despite many of our hands-on services also being off limits, Chai stepped up those we could continue to provide. (You can read about the dedication of our client service managers, therapists and key volunteers over the page.)

‘We understand how the uncertainty and confusion feels for people. Such are the parallels between cancer and Covid-19’

Together Magazine 2020/21

Lockdown pinch points Organisationally, Chai saw pressures on particular areas over the first three months of the pandemic. Dr Rachel Craig, consultant in palliative medicine at the Royal Free Hospital and Hampstead’s Marie Curie Hospice, who leads our Medical Outpatient Rehabilitation and Palliative Care Service, reported that appointments for her remote clinic at Chai were fully booked. ‘More clients needed increased input for pain and symptom relief that could not, at the time, be addressed by other acute cancer services within hospitals,’ she said. On top of that, the imperative of social distancing and being unable to see family members and loved ones, added additional anxiety. Dr Craig noted, too, that certain clients, who are fairly isolated in normal times, required extra support, especially in answering medical queries. ‘Speaking to someone who is knowledgeable, experienced and compassionate provided enormous relief and comfort.’

‘To have to say “we can’t” is counter-intuitive to everything we’ve done for 30 years’ As I write this in late August, our centres are not yet open. The general public can book a massage at a high-street beautician but we cannot welcome clients back in for treatments and risk infection of our vulnerable cohort, staff and practitioners. For an organisation like ours, used to moving mountains to provide services, when speed is of the essence, it’s sad and frustrating when a client phones desperate for a therapy to start and to have to say ‘we can’t’.

It’s counter-intuitive to everything we’ve done for 30 years. Therapies such as manual lymphatic drainage, reflexology and aromatherapy are not indulgences but vital aids to ease pain, nausea and extreme fatigue. Some clients who continued chemotherapy at home during lockdown have endured many side effects without these essential services.

Safety comes first We are not alone in our cautious approach to opening up our 11 centres. Nationally, the picture is the same.

In conversations with the chief executives of other cancer support organisations, we are sharing best practice and understanding. Our Medical Advisory Panel, led by Dr Adrian Tookman, Medical Director of the Marie Curie Hospice in Hampstead, our practitioners and myself, are developing the necessary protocols to deliver therapies in the safest way possible.

It will mean changes to how we operate. The use of PPE will, at least initially, add an unfamiliar dimension to treatments. Time allotted for appointments will

‘Nationally we are sharing best practice and understanding with other cancer support organisations’ increase to allow therapists to change their PPE and disinfect the room, ready for the next client. The result is, sadly, that fewer clients will be seen – and that is heartbreaking for everyone who works at Chai.

Recognising that many clients still need to shield, we anticipate initially re-starting hands-on therapies to clients through our Home Support Service, the running costs of which are double that of a centre visit.

What the future holds This is a critical point. Statistics from Cancer Research UK in late July revealed hundreds of thousands missed out on vital scans, tests, surgery, chemo- and radiotherapy, with an estimated 38,000 fewer treatments since the start of lockdown – a third with potentially lifethreatening consequences. More than two million breast, bowel and cervical screenings were delayed.

Since restrictions were lifted on GP appointments and Covid-free cancer hubs got going, calls and new clients have surged at Chai. Missed appointments and later diagnoses mean more complex treatments for patients, along with more psychological distress for them and their family.

We are a vital safety net for entire families, picking up where an overwhelmed NHS cannot reach, and we do this without any statutory support. Approximately twothirds of Chai’s income comes from small and large events: cake sales, the annual dinner, family simcha donations, sponsored activities and committeerun events. Many have either been scaled back or cancelled and there is no escaping the financial impact this is having on Chai. Another heartache is that the majority of our wonderful volunteers, who are so deeply committed to Chai and its clients, and give so much across the organisation, have missed being of service.

As we go to print, restrictions are easing – with provisos. From 1 August, the government paused the shielding guidance though social distancing continues. Chai in Schools can operate with Covidsecure measures in place in the 23 schools we support. Within the confines of this ever-changing situation, we are doing our utmost to find ways to make more services available. In these precarious times, how we deliver them may be different, but our constant priority – the support, well-being and safety of our clients – will continue to guide everything we do. ■

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Chai Cancer Care

When the country went into lockdown, Chai was challenged as never before to find ways to support its thousands of clients

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n early March, as the noise about Covid-19 grew louder in the UK, Chai was acting at speed as an unimaginable scenario unfolded. Group services for more than 10 people were cancelled; appointment reminders alerted clients to new hygiene rules. Regular classes were being recorded, ready to stream into clients’ homes if needed.

Fundraising events were pivoted online or postponed. Face-to-face therapies were disappearing. And on March 17, lockdown enveloped the country. ‘Our biggest concern was the isolation and anxiety this would cause our clients, especially those whose treatment was stopped,’ says Chief Executive Lisa Steele. ‘We had to make sure no client fell through the gaps.’

Lisa Steele, Chief Executive

Daily Zoom meetings between Lisa Steele, the regional manager and CSMs helped ensure no clients fell through the net during lockdown, and provided much-needed mutual support

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Chai was acting at speed as an unimaginable scenario unfolded At the IT end of Chai’s plans was Michael Glass, a member of Chai’s advisory board. ‘Going virtual was not such a big leap because Skype and telephone support was already in place for clients. However, laptops and a secure network were essential for client service managers (CSMs) to maintain client confidentiality while working at home.’ The CSMs’ weekly face-to-face catch-ups with Lisa Steele became daily Zooms. ‘It was so important to retain that sense of being in a team.’

Gerry Singer, North West Regional Manager

Karen Richman

Alicia Ani

Indeed, the CSMs were at the epicentre of Chai’s response to Covid-19, dealing with new and magnified challenges. ‘Many clients expressed fears about catching the virus,’ says Alicia Ani. ‘For patients whose treatment was on hold, it was especially worrying.’ The relentlessness of medical appointments provided a structure.

Now that – and the respite of going to Chai – were gone. ‘Getting a slot for a supermarket delivery was a nightmare,’ reports CSM Nicky Phillips. ‘Just ensuring clients living alone had food became an urgent issue.’ As the pandemic continued, the emotional impact grew, recalls CSM Jodi Lazarus: ‘Conversations became longer and more intense. One client said she just wanted a hug. That's all.’

Jodi Lazarus

Nicky Phillips

Debra Clifton

Together Magazine 2020/21

Conversations became longer and more intense.

One client said she just wanted a hug. That's all Chai’s ‘new normal’ saw practitioners go online to provide counselling, mindfulness, meditation, Reiki, physio and gym, Pilates, yoga, nutritional advice, advocacy, play, art and music therapy. Support groups also continued virtually. While most clients seized on this remote support, others felt it wasn’t for them. ‘We still regularly kept in touch with those clients,’ says Karen Richman, CSM in Manchester, ‘but many

voiced how they missed physically coming to Chai, for the welcome and the people.’

It was in the North West that an online men’s support group hit its stride (see p27). Regional Head of Services Gerry Singer says, ‘It's quite something to have achieved this in lockdown. The value of that shared support has been immense.’

Ads, press articles and social media posts let people know Chai was still ‘virtually’ open for anyone who needed it.

Inevitably there were losses. ‘It’s been so distressing for families and friends unable to say goodbye properly, attend funerals

or sit shiva together,’ says Debra Clifton.

In the space of 10 days she lost seven clients. Supervision is always available so CSMs can offload the pressures that are part of the job. Never was it so needed as during Covid-19. As Jodi confirms, ‘We were in touch with each other through the day but we missed the “Chai family” atmosphere of the office.’ Lisa Steele applauds how her team around the country stepped up: ‘They were thrown in at the deep end, working remotely and listening to some very upsetting calls.

Hearing clients say they could not have managed without them recognises their incredible efforts. They’ve been amazing.’

How Chai made the online switch Darit Puchkov

Art and play therapist My priority was to maintain the relationship with the child and there’s a lot you can do through a screen. Guided meditations often began an art therapy session to help the child express their emotions creatively. In play therapy, screen conversations between glove puppets enabled a child to talk about their feelings quite naturally.

Diane Siskind

Mindfulness teacher What a learning curve, blending mindfulness with Zoom: pitching my voice right; checking I can be heard; and crucial details like ensuring everyone feels settled at the end – online goodbyes can be so abrupt. In a room, everyone finds a comfortable space. Thankfully, in our homes we were also able to find our spaces in our individual Zoom boxes.

Lana Pinshaw Nutritionist

With many cancer treatments halted, clients worried about the effect on their appetite and weight.

For many it was a bigger fear than Covid-19. Providing advice and helping allay worries over the phone helped our

most vulnerable clients and we worked with the amazing charity, GIFT, to deliver food packages with the specific foods clients needed.’

Lynne Silver (with Barbara Freedman and Andee Roback) Wednesday Afternoon Social Club Our afternoons give clients a break from cancer and we were determined to keep doing that through lockdown.

We arranged singers, a poet, quizzes, a jazz pianist, discussions, and a talk by Esther Rantzen.

The love we feel for each other beamed through our computers. After one event a client said, ‘I’m so happy, I'm bursting with joy.’

Phil Evans

Music therapist I thought technical aspects of making music online would be dissatisfying for clients. But despite isolation being a frequent theme, we managed to create joyous musical dialogues. Clients improvised orchestras with wine glasses, cheese graters and even air wheezing out of a balloon! In the end it wasn’t about the sound; it was about making connections.

Zippora Galpert Counsellor

The counselling relationship changed against the backdrop of Covid-19. On the phone there was an intensification of anxiety: about falling ill and being lonely. It was painful for many, even those with a busy household around them. Giving a person that safe space and time was never more essential.

Graham Silas Physiotherapist Online sessions were invaluable for clients, providing social connection and motivation.

As well as demonstrating exercises and giving advice, I emailed programmes, pictures and video links so clients could work independently. Bags of rice made a good stand-in for weights! ■

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Chai Cancer Care

30 years that changed the conversation Chai opens its ‘Centre for Health’ at Shield House in Hendon. It’s a major step forward, providing counselling, complementary therapies and Well Woman/Man screening clinics, enabling easy access to vital healthcare services.

Chai Lifeline is founded by Frances Winegarten z’l and Susan Shipman prompted by their personal experiences of cancer and a lack of support and information. They resolve to fill this unmet need and set up a helpline from their homes.

1990

2001

1996 Breaking the taboo of silence around cancer, the Natalie Shipman Memorial lectures bring experts to lay audiences to provide accurate information and dispel myths. These lectures are named to remember Susan’s daughter Natalie z’l who passed away aged seven from a brain tumour. In a pre-internet era, these lectures spur people into taking action about their cancer concerns.

1991

A new logo and a new name. Now called Chai Cancer Care, it reflects the breadth of services it provides.

The rainbow logo represents Chai bringing light into the darkness of a cancer diagnosis.

2010

2010 Chai’s 20th anniversary campaign pulls no punches with powerful messages about the reality of cancer.

Chai Lifeline Cancer Care Registered Charity No. 1078956

We can help with the confusion

More communities around the country request and receive our services: in Glasgow, Hackney, South Manchester and Southend.

If the shock of a cancer diagnosis is taking its toll, Chai can help restore some order.

Chai’s range of services is available nationally.

To find out more and for details of your nearest centre, please call our freephone helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit www.chaicancercare.org/jc

2011

2013

The Chai Cancer Care website brings us into people’s homes, with information on services, events and client testimonials. The Chai family is expanding.

2012 Improved treatments mean more people living with debilitating longterm side effects. Our new Medical Outpatient Clinic at Chai in Hendon is a ground-breaking collaboration with the Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust and Marie Curie Cancer Care.

2012

Our services now include creative outlets such as art and jewellery workshops.

Below, a Rosh Hashanah card from the art group.

Chai in Schools starts, providing services in schools and support to teachers whose pupils have been impacted by a cancer diagnosis in their family.

3747_Chai_RH_2013_Card_v10.indd 1

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09/08/2013 16:56

Together Magazine 2020/21

Chai – meaning life – raised a few eyebrows as a name for a cancer charity. But from the outset, the co-founders wanted to change perceptions. This organisation was about living with cancer, not hiding from it. That raison d’être remains as true as ever today

2003

2007

The Duke of Kent officially opens the new building and meets clients and therapists to learn how Chai supports patients and families. He candidly relates how a cancer diagnosis affected his own family.

The organisation relocates to the Great North Way – an enormous but carefully considered step because we know demand will only increase.

Responding to the request of the local community, Chai’s first satellite centre opens in Redbridge.

Our Home Support Service starts, bringing treatments and counselling to clients when they are not well enough to come to us.

2004

A bold new statement about cancer and Chai’s place in the community. The hoarding faces the street at the Hendon flagship.

2009 2008 Recognising the impact of a cancer diagnosis affects children in very particular ways, we launch our Children and Family Support Service.

Chai in South London centre opens.

2009 North Manchester’s community asks for our services and we open our first centre outside Greater London.

2013

2014 Centres in Leeds and Liverpool open

2016–20 2015

In consultation with our Medical Advisory Panel and using client feedback, we develop more services that make a tangible difference and bring them to as many locations as possible.

Chai in Birmingham opens

64 Services 11 Centres Chai goes global as we start delivering selected services by phone or Skype.

2020

We go to Chai for * the big

*Care

is at the heart of everything

we do.

seeing the impact of On a daily basis we are and emotionally, Covid-19, both physically on so many of our clients. team are Our dedicated and experiencedC of Care big continuing to provide Chai’s and Zoom, bringing through telephone, Skype support, relief and much needed specialised turn to us. expertise to all those who call 0208 202 2211 or For more information please on 0808 808 4567 or visit our Freephone Helpline www.chaicancercare.org.

Together we will care.

Together we can cope.

Registered Charity No.

1078956

What a long way we’ve come. From the days when the word cancer was referred to only by its first letter… We imbue it with a new meaning in our latest campaign.

The Big C* now stands for *Care. ■

3600 Clients

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Chai Cancer Care

Getting to know the new me Cancer alters so much – including how you feel about yourself. Four clients describe Chai’s support through a life-changing time something about it. I saw my GP who asked, “Do you really want to know?” He urged me to have genetic counselling to deal with the potential fallout of a positive result.

Some people resist finding out and go into denial, or depression when they do. I was anxious, sure, but I wanted to jump in and deal with it.

‘Chai was like a hand coming down from heaven to hug me’

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n 2017, aged 34, Chaviva Scherer discovered she was a BRCA gene carrier, with a 96.4% chance of developing ovarian cancer before she reached 40. She lives in Manchester with her husband, Mendel and four children – two boys and two girls.

‘My father found out he was a BRCA 1 gene carrier while being treated for a brain tumour four years ago. The news shocked me but it made sense of a family history riddled with cancer. Both his parents died of it in their 40s and 50s.

Immediately I wanted to know if I was a carrier so I could do

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The doctors calculated I had a 96.4% chance of developing ovarian cancer before I was 40. I could have riskreducing surgery when I turned 35.

I was 34 and a half and would have to wait. Suddenly I felt like a ticking time

bomb. Who knew what might happen in those six months? That’s when I phoned Chai. Through the tears I said, “I have a cancer-related issue and I’m scared.” I can’t remember what Gerry Singer [Head of North West services] said but I felt a hand coming down from heaven to hug me.

I’m certain that without its support I would not have had the surgery that was right for me. My ovaries and Fallopian tubes had to come out first followed by a double mastectomy.

I wanted to go flat to eradicate any risk of breast cancer but convincing the medics and psychologist was a struggle. They questioned if I’d be happy like this. It was even suggested not having reconstructive surgery would damage my marriage. With my therapist, we role-played the scenarios I was facing. I wanted to be a wife and mother, not a model – and my husband was 100% in agreement.

‘Peacock’, left: ‘I went in to the art room feeling very down. I took a canvas and painted it completely black.

Within a short while, after a hot drink and chatting with Anna (the teacher) and the other people, this beautiful peacock was born. When I look at it I relive the feeling of hope, love and belonging that Chai gives me!’

Together Magazine 2020/21

Chai’s physio, Lewis, helped me prep my body to cope with the impact of the surgeries. I had an extreme reaction to the surgical menopause: severe hot flushes, memory loss, my sight and hearing were affected and I had nerve damage in my hand.

Reflexology, Indian head massage and body massage helped me de-stress and relieved the keloid scarring. I took nutritional advice, too. After my double mastectomy I could barely use my hands but I went to the Chai art class. The teacher opened the paints, put the brush in my hand and I began – a tiny accomplishment, which made me feel so good. Now I wouldn’t miss my two hours of art a week for anything.

I’ve been given a rotten situation I didn’t choose, but I am getting through it. Physically and emotionally, Chai has saved my family. Mendel had therapy to help him adjust to all the changes. My eldest daughter also had talk therapy while my eldest son and younger daughter had play therapy through the Chai in Schools programme. The sessions were the highlight of their week. They have

Chaviva’s Mother and child giraffe represents a mother’s intense love and protective embrace of her child. It was done in honour of her daughter but also signifies Chai’s love and devotion

tools to look after themselves, for life. I can’t imagine how it would have been without the devotion of everyone at Chai and I can’t wait for the day I can properly give back.’

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eter Braham, 71, first had counselling with Chai during his own cancer. When his wife Linda, died last year, aged 73, he again turned to Chai. Peter has two children: Matthew 44, and Amanda 45.

‘How can I describe Linda? She was a one-off: loopy, whacky, fearless!

She’d break into song in the queue for the cinema or photo-bomb a lineup of 30 Chinese tourists. She liked to be busy and worked in the 60s and 70s as PA to the MD of Rimmel. Later, when the kids were at school, she worked for an accountancy firm. Her hobbies were me, the children and going on holiday, once we could afford them. I often came home to discover she’d booked another one!

‘How can I explain the importance of having someone help me through these painful times? It’s incalculable’

Life and travelling companions: Peter and Linda Braham in Lanzarote in 2019, celebrating 45 years together.

They stayed at their honeymoon hotel tumour. Back home after 23 days in hospital, she was determined to make dinner that evening, which she did!

But the effects of the operation were severe. Already type 2 diabetic, now she was type 1 as well. Having lost half her pancreas, life became curtailed and she often couldn’t leave the house. Sometimes she moaned about it, and to be honest, she was entitled.

Last year, for my 70th birthday, Linda booked for us to go to Toronto and Niagara. It was brilliant. We travelled back to London via New York on the Queen Mary. But something was very wrong. Linda was exhausted and suffering with stomach pains.

We both had cancer more than once. In 2002, I was treated for oesophageal cancer, and that’s when Linda began volunteering at Chai. We knew and valued the organisation. I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007 and the shock caused my hair to fall out in two days. I changed dramatically and literally didn’t recognise myself.

I became very low. Linda suggested I go for counselling at Chai. It was a saviour. I could let out all the tension, frustration and pain I was feeling.

Linda’s first cancer was a malignant melanoma in her calf, in 2009. The second, in 2011, was a pancreatic

Peter’s favourite photo of Linda. ‘She was a one-off: loopy, whacky, fearless!’

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Chai Cancer Care

Once home getting a diagnosis was laborious. We’d moved from Romford to Bushey and ended up falling between two hospitals, A&E departments and specialists. Linda went downhill between May and August. A week before she passed, we learned it was liver cancer and only palliative care remained.

On a Saturday morning, my daughter said to her, “Don’t worry, we’re all going to look after each other. If you want to go, you can.” Seconds later, she died.

I knew I had to go back to Chai. My counsellor has been fabulous. I tell her my deepest thoughts. She’s my leaning post and saves me from burdening my family. How can I explain the importance of having someone help me through these painful times, how valuable and healing it is? It’s incalculable. Being able to speak freely is uplifting. I’m not scared or ashamed to cry. I’m proud that I can; it’s a strength. I can see light – and life – at the end of the tunnel.’

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isters Liz, 53, and Debbie Goodstone, 49, were diagnosed with breast cancer two months apart in 2018. Liz underwent a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy; Debbie had a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Liz: I accidentally missed a breast screening appointment and wondered should I bother rearranging it? Lucky I did. There was no lump, no unusual signs. It’s a lesson… go for your scans! I had two operations but neither quite did the job. The next stage was a mastectomy, reconstructive surgery, chemo- and radiotherapy. Again, two attempts at reconstruction failed. I hoped we’d have another go this summer but with Covid-19 it could be a while, so I’m just carrying on, with Tamoxifen, hot flushes and forgetfulness!

‘When you walk in to Chai you know everyone’s on your side’ Debbie: After her diagnosis, Liz said to me, “You worry about everybody except yourself. Promise me if you find anything you’ll get it looked at.”

Two months later I felt something in my right breast. The GP was taking no chances but an inconclusive examination led to a further test and finally a biopsy, which confirmed a tumour, which was completely hidden.

Liz: We had to have the BRCA gene test in advance of our treatments.

Debbie: We held hands as we were given the results. What if only one of us had it? We were elated when we found neither of us were carriers – despite both of us having cancer.

Liz: We both had our heads shaved. My hair started falling out early on and that was hard: waking up and not knowing how much hair there would be on the pillow was frightening.

It’s so defeminising. When I shaved it all off, it somehow gave me more control.

Sisters Liz (left) and Debbie Goodstone were both being treated for breast cancer at the same time in 2018

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Debbie: You think you’re dealing with your diagnosis and don’t realise you’re not. I had the lumpectomy but because of a risk of recurrence, I had five months of chemo plus radiotherapy, too. People said, “Go to Chai,” and though I made contact, I didn’t think I’d need it.

Family, friends and Chai surrounded Debbie and Liz with support. Here, with their brother Andy My Client Service Manager Jodi kept in touch however, and towards the end of my treatment, when I had a lot of aches and pains, she suggested reflexology and massage. It made me feel so much better. As the medical side of things stopped, Chai became even more important to me. I needed counselling. Back at work part time (as a teacher), I couldn’t remember anything; I felt like I was under water.

I had hot flushes and swollen legs. The GP told me that the early menopause had aged me ten years in six months.

I began gym sessions with Graham, which continued online through lockdown and I’ve had weekly support from Lana, the nutritionist.

Liz: Our close extended family, friends and our brother Andy, a GP, have been with us every step.

I was fortunate to have less severe side effects than Debbie but I was affected by fatigue, which was eased by reflexology and massage. Chai’s presence has been such a positive – and it helps me tremendously knowing Debbie is looked after.

Debbie: When you walk in to Chai you know everyone’s on your side. Their only aim is to make you feel good. All these amazing people are helping us find our new normal – and for that we are incredibly grateful. ■

Together Magazine 2020/21

A virtual to remember in Manchester t should have been a midsummer’s night dream. But Covid-19 threw the best-laid plans for Manchester’s The Moment Dinner into the air.

I T

hey landed however, as a brilliantly rearranged virtual event, connecting 500 households via Facebook and YouTube, celebrating and raising essential funds for the North West region. A heartfelt welcome from long-term supporter Jude Moryoussef greeted guests tuning in from front rooms, back gardens and balconies in the UK, Europe, Israel and South Africa.

Co-chairs Lisa Binder and Clare Spieler said the success of the evening was

down to the ‘exceptional work of the committee, Amanda Adshead, Jane Mechlowitz, Michal Mocton Alex Caplan and Lisa Hodari, the fantastic content and because people love to support Chai. Everyone pulled together.’ Personal messages and ‘L’chaims’ from supporters added spirit to the evening and those local to Manchester enjoyed a special ‘Thai for Chai’ banquet delivered by Feast by Ed. Midway, Chai honorary patron and actor Maureen Lipman CBE led a stellar cast, including David Baddiel and Howard Jacobson, Fabien Frankel and Gabriella Margulies in a reading of her husband Jack Rosenthal’s play, Tell Me On A Friday. First commissioned

by Chai for a private event in 2002, it was the public premier of the

Four famous Tevyes sing L’chaim to life!

Yehezkel Lazarov

Chaim Topol

Dudu Fisher

Andy Nyman

playwright’s final work, in which a young man grapples with how to tell his family he has cancer. The poignancy of each actor isolated in their own on-screen box was echoed in Louise Hager’s speech. ‘What we’ve experienced in lockdown is what cancer patients experience every day of their lives.’

Going out on a ‘Chai’, the evening closed with a global first: Chai’s unofficial anthem ‘To Life’ from Fiddler On The Roof, sung by some of the world’s top Tevyes featuring Topol, Dudu Fisher, Andy Nyman and Yehezkel Lazarov. ‘The song has tremendous energy and truly captures the positivity that Chai gives to all those who turn to us,’ said Louise. Indeed, it raised the roof – and £120,000 for the North West. ■

Chai Honorary Patron Maureen Lipman, CBE leads a notable cast including David Baddiel, Howard Jacobson, Fabien Frankel and Gabriella Margulies, in a reading of Tell Me On A Friday by her husband Jack Rosenthal z’l.

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Chai Cancer Care

THE PROS AND CONS OF PROTON BEAM THERAPY

If the hype is to be believed, it’s a treatment offering the promise of a cancer cure with no side effects.

Consultant clinical oncologist Dr Yen-Ching Chang describes its benefits and limitations

T

here is no doubt that proton beam therapy (PBT) is an exciting addition to the radiotherapy field. Its aim is to deliver a lethal dose of radiation to kill cancer cells while minimising its effect on the surrounding normal tissues. It’s the irradiation of normal tissues that causes the side effects (both short- and long-term) associated with radiation such as nausea, hormone deficiencies and secondary tumours.

Normally radiotherapy is given using high-energy X-rays while proton beam therapy uses high-energy particles to irradiate cancers. X-rays behave like light travelling in a straight line to treat a cancer, which means the normal tissue in front of and behind the cancer, also receives a dose of radiation. Protons behave very differently, depositing virtually all their energy at a certain depth within tissue, which can be adjusted to coincide with the cancer. So while there is an entry dose of radiation, normal tissues lying beyond the depth of the cancer receive virtually no radiation, thereby reducing, though not eradicating these upsetting side effects.

ON THE PLUS SIDE The first advantage of PBT is the ability to treat cancers adjacent to ‘critical’ structures – i.e. an organ (or part of an organ) which if damaged may lead to life-threatening complications. With radiation, the dose must be limited to the amount the surrounding normal tissue can tolerate. With PBT a higher dose of radiation can be delivered to the tumour while avoiding irradiating

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Proton beam therapy can significantly improve the quality of life in cancer survivors, reducing long-term side effects of treatment the surrounding normal tissue beyond its tolerance. The result is increased cure rates. For example, cancers called chondrosarcomas and chordomas located in the base of the skull fall into this category, needing high doses of radiation. With the brainstem and optic nerve pathways often in close

Tumour

proximity to these tumours, PBT, in this instance, is able to deliver high doses of radiation to the tumour while not exceeding the tolerance of the nearby critical structures.

Secondly, the reduction in the volume of normal tissue irradiated has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life in people who have survived cancer by reducing the longterm side effects of treatment. These may develop months or years following radiotherapy and are permanent, often debilitating. In particular, children, teenagers and young adults stand to gain significantly from the use of PBT, as

Proton Beam

Together Magazine 2020/21

irradiating developing tissues can cause problems with growth, IQ, development through puberty and infertility, lead to heart and lung damage as well as an increased risk of radiation-induced tumours and cancers.

Currently for patients with specific cancers, the NHS funds treatment at The Christie Hospital in Manchester, the West Germany Proton Therapy Centre in Essen, the University of Florida Proton Therapy Institute in Jacksonville and from 2021, University College London Hospital. Cancers suitable for this treatment include soft tissue sarcomas around the spine in children, teenagers and adults, certain brain tumours in children and adolescents as well as other tumours affecting children and adolescents. Full details of this service can be found at www.england.nhs.uk/ commissioning/spec-services/highlyspec-services/pbt/

DELIVERY CHALLENGES The equipment needed to deliver PBT employs a cyclotron (particle accelerator) to generate protons.

While it is the size of a large family car, it weighs over 100 tonnes. Protons are transported down a beam line by a series of superconducting and bending magnets to the treatment nozzle mounted on a gantry. The gantry is three storeys high and weighs over 200 tonnes. There is a suite of sophisticated imaging tools (X-rays, CT) integrated into the gantry to ensure that treatment is delivered with millimetre precision. Clearly the cost of this highly engineered equipment, specialised maintenance and the building required to house it with the necessary radiation shielding, explains the limited number of proton centres.

Protons are very sensitive to changes in tissue density. For example, in treating a cancer in the lung, the proton beam needs to travel through skin, muscle, bone (ribs) and air (within the lung) to reach the cancer. Protons travel to a greater depth in air compared to bone so small changes in patient position can mean a rib is unexpectedly in the path of the protons, which may lead to dose “undershooting” i.e. not reaching the cancer. Or a rib is unexpectedly not in the path of the proton beam meaning the dose “overshoots” the tumour and hits a critical structure instead.

PBT employs a cyclotron (particle accelerator). It is the size of a large family car – and weighs over 100 tonnes As with any new technology, it’s vital there is good clinical evidence that it is safe and effective and that clinical outcomes (local control rates, survival, frequency and severity of side effects and patient reported outcomes) are systematically collected and published.

Adoption of PBT into a wider range of cancers must be evaluated out in a clinical trial setting. Comparisons of proton therapy to current gold standard X-ray treatments need to be undertaken. The first UK trial in proton therapy, TORPEdO is about to open with others to follow. Innovative approaches using combinations of immunotherapy, surgery and chemotherapy alongside proton therapy are also being explored.

Proton beam therapy brings another weapon in the radiotherapy armoury alongside Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT), TomoTherapy, stereotactic radiotherapy, brachytherapy and molecular radiotherapy. As with all treatments, it must be delivered within a patientcentred pathway by a team well-versed in proton and wider radiotherapy techniques and which is embedded within the specialist cancer-specific multidisciplinary team. Then, I believe, the benefits of proton therapy will be realised. ■

Dr Yen-Ching Chang is Clinical Lead for Proton Therapy at University College London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. She has been a Consultant at University College London Hospital and Great Ormond Street Hospital since 2005. Her areas of expertise are paediatric radiotherapy (brain tumours, haematological malignancies and technical radiotherapy) and late effects following treatment for childhood cancers.

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Chai Cancer Care

An architect of innovation No one is indispensable but some people can make all the difference. Gerald Fogel z’l is integral to the history of Chai and his inspiration lives on through his family on the front of our letterhead, so people knew what we were providing, to lay out the ‘goods’, as it were.’ Gerald continued putting his astute retailing instincts to work for Chai over the years, and as the relationship flourished, he became an essential sounding board.

Everyone in the Fogel family knew of Gerald’s enthusiasm for Chai. ‘He spoke passionately about the organisation, often around the Friday-night table,’ says Jo who is married to David, Gerald’s younger son. In 2007, Gerald invited her to a lunch. ‘He always said you had to see Chai in action. Like many people I was a bit apprehensive going into a cancer centre, but as soon as I walked in to the building, I felt the warmth and positivity. It was so inspiring.

Hearing Louise talk, I just had to get involved.’

navigator. With his key wa rtime role as an RAF Gerald Fogel played a e ss into a household nam he turned a family bus ine

B

ack in 2001 an important conversation took place between Gerald Fogel and Chai. Following a highly successful career as co-founder of the Texas DIY chain, Gerald was active in the charitable community and newly aware of Chai Lifeline, as it was then called. Learning that it was funded entirely by donations from the community, and recognising the need for Chai would only increase, Gerald saw the necessity to create a consistent stream of revenue. His next step was to suggest a ‘rebrand’.

‘You’re much more than a telephone helpline now,’ he reasoned, ‘and you need to put the word ‘cancer’ in full view so people understand what you do.’ It was a lightbulb moment. Chai Cancer Care was the result.

The change of name gave Gerald a platform upon which to launch Chai’s most ambitious fundraising project to date – a patronage campaign – with the aim of nurturing long-term relationships with significant donors. Gerald

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brothers,

It’s almost a pre-requisite to play golf in the Fogel clan so when Jo mooted the idea of a tournament fundraiser, she turned to members of the family, including sister-in-law Mel Rom. Friends came on board and the first Golf Fore Chai event was held in 2009 at the Hartsbourne Country Club. Talk about starting at the top – the prize for a hole in one was a Ferrari!

funded the set-up costs and under his skilful stewardship, between 2003 and 2015, when he passed away, it raised £2.5 million. (It has since risen to £3.2 million.) The income enabled the development of services and gave the organisation greater visibility in the heart of the community.

No one passing the flagship centre in North West London can miss the Chai Cancer Care corner hoarding, affirming ‘Cancer doesn’t care. We do.’

‘I just wanted to help,’ Gerald recalled later, an understated description of his contribution. Little wonder The Jewish Chronicle once named him one of its top 50 ‘mensches’.

So, what was his attraction to Chai? ‘He saw how we did things,’ says Louise Hager, ‘and I believe our approach appealed to his business instincts and the principles he lived by. He liked that as a small organisation, we could move quickly to respond to our clients’ needs and the rationale that went into each new service. It prompted him to suggest another significant step, to list them

Gerald with fia ncée Benita Ne wman during their en gagement.

They wed in 19 49

Together Magazine 2020/21

Celebrating with sons Steven (right) and David at David’s bar mitzvah.

Gerald was a ‘strong, kind presence’

The raffle always features a 5-star-plus luxury holiday donated by Mel’s husband, Edward, who runs EFR Travel and he has lately sponsored the entire event. Over six tournaments, Golf Fore Chai has raised more than £260,000, with the next one due to tee off in April 2021, Covid-19 permitting. Jo feels the ‘amazingly loyal following won’t let Chai down.’ With her business head (she runs her own company, Stitch London which sells leather gifts) and her self-confessed ‘competitive golfer’s streak’, she is not short of plans to expand the supporter base either.

‘He flew battle plans out to General Montgomery in France’ The bond between the Fogels and Chai has become long and fruitful, borne out of shared values. Born in 1924 in London’s East End to Russian and Polish immigrant parents, Gerald Fogel grew into adulthood during the Second World War, joining the RAF as a navigator.

He was selected for Special Operations and undertook ‘some seriously exciting wartime activity,’ says his elder son Steven. ‘He flew

battle plans out to General Montgomery in France, guided his aircraft in to land on a Roman viaduct in the fog next to the Eiffel Tower, and once, used the slipstream of the aircraft to divert a doodlebug into the sea.’ He and David only found out about his acts of derring-do years later, though he always marched with ex-servicemen on Remembrance Sunday. An impressive man with a military bearing, Steven describes his father as ‘quiet and modest, a man who led by example.

His hard work and integrity were obvious to David and me as far back as we can remember.’

Golders Green before they settled in Hampstead Garden Suburb, in a house Gerald designed.

Post-war, Gerald practised architecture and recognised new opportunities in building construction and distribution. When he joined his brothers Manny and Sydney to expand their wallpaper and tile business, he brought this understanding to bear as, over three decades, the brothers turned their Home Charm stores into Texas Homecare – a household name. Gerald was chairman for 27 years, initiating a retail revolution with out-of-town American-style shopping warehouses. When in 1995 Sainsbury’s bought the company, David Sainsbury expressed his hope to Gerald that the business could continue in the family’s entrepreneurial tradition.

But in retirement, it was his relationship with Chai that was his most rewarding work. His weekly visits kept him in touch with every aspect of the organisation and his interest never waned.

‘He loved that Chai provided a Jewish aspect to cancer care,’ says Benita. ‘That feeling is very special and unique.’ Now she is the proud family cheerleader, hosting a table at the annual dinner with three generations of supporters. Jo’s sonin-law Robert runs Raging Bull Events which presents an annual party in aid of Chai. Her son Ollie has run the London Marathon for Chai while Steven’s daughter, Frances, has helped in the art room and with corporate sponsorship.

By his side since 1949 was Benita, a love match that began when the beautiful Sheffield-born 17-year-old and her identical twin Jacqueline, pitched up at The Pandora, a Regent Street nightclub co-run by Gerald. Despite being underage, he let them in. Her first impressions?

‘He was quiet, capable… and very good looking!’

They married a year later at Finchley Synagogue and their devoted and happy family life began in

At the end of his life, in hospital, the only person other than family Gerald was happy to see was Louise. ‘He brightened up whenever he saw her; he was Gerald again,’ says Benita.

The ‘gentleman who was also a gentle man’ as Louise fondly describes him, showed what could be achieved through the combination of a great cause, fine leadership, superb team working, passion and commitment. ■

UK and Israel family at the 2014 Chai dinner which Gerald and Benita hosted. L to R: Michael Segal, Joan & Steven Fogel, Frances Fogel, Gerald & Benita, Jo & David Fogel, Marsha Segal

At home he was a ‘strong but kind presence,’ says Steven. ‘We enjoyed hikes over Hampstead Heath, robust conversations, evening meals with Mum’s wonderful Yorkshire/Jewish cooking, and family holidays.’ Gerald also managed to schedule in time to becoming a Justice of the Peace and served as a lay judge.

‘In retirement, it was his relationship with Chai that was his most rewarding work’

At the last Golf Fore Chai event: committee members Carolyn Joels, Jo Fogel, Mel Rom and Meryl Rosenberg with Lisa Steele and Louise Hager

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Chai Cancer Care

The big

C

*

When Chai Cancer Care was established 30 years ago, cancer was a word rarely uttered. People avoided using it, deploying any number of alternatives instead.

‘The Big C’ was one such euphemism: a single letter containing the enormity of a cancer diagnosis. Thirty years on, Chai’s anniversary campaign turns that phrase on its head.

Now it stands for the big C of *Care, supporting thousands of patients and their loved ones with specialised services across the UK.

Both diagnosed with cancer, Patricia received manual lymphatic drainage and healing while Stuart used Chai’s massage and reflexology services.

at h a n

Stu

rt

a

18

a & Le on

i

Natasha and Leoni have been going to Chai for counselling since 2018.

During his wife’s illness, Jonathan has been supported by counselling and reiki.

‘Chai is an oasis, a lifesaver through the fear and uncertainty of my wife’s cancer. It’s helped me reclaim my life.’

sh

ta

Jo n

Na

‘There is no misery. It is uplifting, positive and full of empathy. I’m so grateful that Chai is there.’

& P at r i c i a

‘Our wonderful mum became ill many years ago and last year passed away to cancer.

We both turned to Chai for counselling, which has been incredible. Everyone has shown us such kindness, support and care.’

Together Magazine 2020/21 Together Together Magazine Magazine 2019/20 2020/21

Breast cancer patient Rosie has counselling and healing, and feels comforted that support is there for her family.

‘I came within a week of my diagnosis. Chai understands the complex layers of emotions you experience with cancer.’

He a

D ebb i e

t he r

To help her deal with the effects of her treatment, Heather was supported by acupuncture, reiki and reflexology.

Debbie’s husband, Dan, received nutritional advice and acupuncture treatments before he passed away.

Counselling, and art/play therapy now support Debbie, Louis and Noah.

‘Chai has been a saviour, caring for my sons and me as we face huge changes to our lives.

Ro s i e

‘Chai was the light at the end of the tunnel, supporting my physical and mental well-being. I am forever grateful.’

Since her diagnosis Caroline has had counselling, hot stone massage, reflexology and gym sessions. Keith has counselling and massage.

‘We always supported Chai, then in 2019 we needed it.

The services are invaluable and we have cherished the constant support.’

Following a radical mastectomy, Chai has supported Sarah with massage, reflexology, fitness and counselling.

Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphhoma, Adam received complementary therapies and worked with a trainer to rebuild his strength and confidence.

ro

Ca

‘At 28, my immune system flatlined. The joy of Chai was being able to connect with others in a similar situation.’

l i ne

&

h t i Ke

‘You feel things will never be the same again. At Chai you are never the ‘odd one out’, never the statistic. You just feel loved.’

Photography: Adam Lawrence

Sarah

Ad a m

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Chai Cancer Care

Gavriel & Yael Green, Avigail Klein

Sir Michael & Lady Heller

Jo Fogel, Edward & Mel Rom

Rebecca Rubinstein, Leslie Morgan

Naomi & Andrew Fisch

Natasha Phillips, Evelyn, David & Lizzie Green

Steven, Benita & David Fogel

Robert & Reva Kahn

Seated: Anthony Bodenstein, Jonathan Hodes, Daniel & Sharon Green Standing: Karen Bodenstein, Daniela & Avromi Rosenfield

Loretta & Ronnie Harris Elli & Vicki Morris

Alexandra Maurice, Nicole Samson

Mark Posniak, Richard Beenstock, Mark Howard Josephs, Oliver Joseph Joyce Misrahi, Donna Bengio

Seated: Naomi Frankfurt, Jamie Kaye Standing: Dani & Jonny Tapnack, Miriam Kaye

Annabel Sheldon, Orly Wolfson, Claudia Salem,

20Natalie Cesman, Emma Samuels, Shereen Salem

Lynda & Albert Hay

Neil & Laura Samuels, Prof Andrew Eder, Denice & Laurence Golend

Steven & Katrina Wagner

Together Magazine 2020/21

Orly Wolfson & The Hon Andrew Wolfson

Seated: Sylvie & Daniel Tannen Standing: Daniella & Emmanuel Tannen, Sara Last, Patrice Klein

Michelle & Simon Midgen Russell & Michèle Tenzer

D I N N E R

Chai’s annual Dinner last December was filled with many spectacular and moving moments. Once again, London’s Roundhouse theatre, suffused in Chai’s signature colours, proved a bewitching setting. The 750 guests included clients past and present, their families and friends, long-time, new and younger supporters and volunteers, all there to recognise and commit to Chai’s vital role across the community.

There were warm, witty and poignant moments during the two films that were shown. Dr Jane Neerkin, consultant in palliative medicine at UCLH and member of Chai’s Medical Advisory Board, introduced ‘The Chai Effect’, in which clients chatted about the value of Chai and were gently quizzed on the number of its services. Later, guests watched the conversation between

k Sosnow,

Shereen & Moussy Salem Matthew Plax, Jeremy Kutner, Martin Chesler, Jonathan Samuels

Gail & Alan Philipp David & Anne Saleh

Shelley & Merrick Wolman

Joan Lipkin-Edwards, Sidney Semel

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Chai Cancer Care

D I N N E R

Seated: Andrew Fisch, Kevin Opp Standing: Sara & Sammy Bazini, M Marc Samuels, Michelle Selzer

Antoinette Jackson, Lady Estelle Wolfson

childhood friends Rochelle Goldstein and Selena Levy, both diagnosed with breast cancer, and the exceptional way they and their families were supported. Louise Hager’s deeply eloquent speech focused on the moment a person hears they have cancer, ‘when a life is changed forever’, and the moment of hope: ‘the first time a client enters the transformative world of Chai.’

Brian & Helena Green, Juliette & Paul Sonabend

Karen & Peter G

But it didn’t end there, as a dazzling performance by The Conductors galvanized guests to sing and dance their hearts out for Chai with renditions of ‘Stand by Me’, ‘Be Happy’, ‘500 Miles’ and Fiddler on the Roof’s ‘L’Chaim’.

Each potent element of a truly memorable evening ensured Chai reached its fundraising target of £1.2m – enabling it to continue its vital support to nearly 3600 clients.

Stephen & Debra Lever, Philip & Mandy Seth Susan & Stephen James

Sara & Paul Phillips

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Philip & Michelle Hertz

Karen & Joseph Gerrard, Gabrielle & Steven Sharpe

Malcom Carter, Gillian Carter, Susie Segal

Jonathan & Ruth Freedman

Lisa Steele and Stephen Lerner

Shmuli & Minkie Orenstein

Tracy Landy, D

Together Magazine 2020/21

penheim, Derrick & Janet Lubner Mark & Adrienne Ehrnreich,

Richard Segal, Ilana Carno, Josephine Segal Robby & Claudia Salem

Lord & Lady Young

Goodkind, Louise Hager

Michael & Judi Lerner, Gillian & Michael Davis

Carole Berman-Sujo, Angela Sorkin Issy & Susan Zuckerbrod

Ruth Angel, Leon & Melanie Angel Barry & Josephine Slavin, Jeffrey Zamet

hill

Raphael & Devorah Rutman Jane Neerkin, Adam Musikant & Joanna Franks

Debra Paul

George & Toni Rosenfeld

Michael & Stacey Green

Photography by Chiko

Simone & Brian Brick

Judi Bauernfreund, Rina Stimler

Madeleine & David Cope-Thompson

Seated: Debbie & Martyn Slyper, Marion Tapnack, Corinne Tapnack Standing: David Tapnack, Dani Tapnack

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Chai Chai Cancer Cancer Care Care

Dr Vicky Coyle is on a mission to make exercise part of cancer treatment. With no down sides, its benefits could be one simple step towards better patient outcomes

P

Studies suggest that symptoms such as fatigue, pain and anxiety improve in patients undertaking a physical activity programme during or after treatment

hysical activity should be a regular ‘treatment’ for all of us. It can reduce the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, joint pain and an estimated 10% of breast and bowel cancers.

It’s good for our physical and mental health but most adults in the UK do not meet the general health physical activity recommendations set out in 2019 by the Department of Health and Social Care. As a quick reminder, it’s 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity (e.g. brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity (e.g. running) along with two sessions to build muscle strength every week. Older adults should also work on their balance two days each week.

We need to start talking about physical activity as a treatment, not just for conditions such as heart and lung disease, but for cancer patients, too.

How can physical activity fit into the treatment programme of a patient with cancer? The answer is at almost every step of the journey, from diagnosis to during and beyond treatment. Growing evidence indicates positive effects on cancer outcomes including tolerability of treatment in addition to the general health benefits – powerful stuff!

Many studies now suggest that both global quality-of-life scores and cancerrelated symptoms such as fatigue, pain and anxiety improve in those patients undertaking a physical activity

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We need to start talking about physical activity as a treatment for cancer patients programme during or after treatment, in comparison to those who remain sedentary. There are also intriguing findings suggesting that the risk of cancer recurrence or cancer-related death for colon and breast cancers could be lower for the most physically active compared to the least physically active patients. Importantly, it seems that this benefit relates to physical activity levels following diagnosis rather than before, and the effects seem to increase with more exercise, particularly once levels twice the current Government general guidance are reached.

Now that sounds like a lot of exercise but equates to just over an hour a day of brisk walking, five days a week. Physical activity may also have beneficial effects during treatment such as chemotherapy.

Both aerobic and resistance training during chemotherapy after breast cancer surgery have been associated with improved cancer-specific quality of life, fatigue and anxiety. Chemotherapy was better tolerated and treatment completion rates were higher in those patients taking part in resistance training.

Together Magazine 2020/21

So why isn’t physical activity embedded into cancer patient pathways already?

One difficulty is knowing how best to prescribe the ‘dose’ and ‘schedule’ used for other treatments. Studies include patients with different types of cancer, different physical activity programmes or methods to measure symptoms and quality of life. Similarly, observational studies showing an association between physical activity levels and cancer outcomes used patients’ recall of their activity levels over a number of years rather than objectively measuring activity levels or fitness. This variation makes it hard to give definitive recommendations beyond the general health guidance.

However, as chief investigator for the UK part of a new study, the outlook is looking more hopeful. By teaming up with researchers globally we can do large trials to show the effects of

physical activity and therefore change treatment pathways. The Colon Health And Life Long Exercise Change (CHALLENGE) trial led by the Canadian Cancer Trials Group (CCTG), will measure the effect of a structured physical activity programme on survival, cancer recurrence and quality of life in patients with colon cancer. Those currently inactive will be eligible to take part, and if allocated to the physical activity programme, will be supported and supervised to gradually increase their levels.

This trial aims to recruit almost 1000 patients globally and we have been funded by Cancer Research UK’s Stand Up to Cancer campaign to deliver the UK element of the trial. We believe it is vitally important that patients have the opportunity to take part. Not only is it the first global trial measuring the effect of physical activity on cancer survival but it will also allow us to answer important questions specific to our patients in the NHS setting.

Find out more about the trial at www.nictu.hscni.net/challenge-trial/.

Physical activity can be a daunting prospect for people who are inactive let alone those living with and beyond cancer. Receiving a life-changing diagnosis and having treatment for cancer is tough mentally and physically and exercise levels do fall in patients with cancer during treatment.

Although these may recover following treatment, they may not recover to pre-diagnosis levels. We also know that the year following a cancer diagnosis is a ‘teachable moment’ when some patients are open to behaviour changes and lifestyle advice.

So, as healthcare providers, we need to spread the message that exercise is safe during and after cancer treatment.

We know that people are more likely to stick to lifestyle changes with support through setting goals and encouraging self-directed activity. This means that any help we can offer our patients by signposting clinical trials or additional services providing support is critical, enabling them to gain all the potential benefits that being physically active can bring. ■

The year following a cancer diagnosis is a “teachable moment” when patients can be open to behaviour changes and lifestyle advice

Dr Vicky Coyle is Senior Lecturer at Queen’s University Belfast and Consultant Medical Oncologist in the Belfast HSC Trust. Her clinical practice focuses on colorectal cancer while in a clinical setting it is the mechanisms of treatment response and resistance, and supportive care funded by Cancer Research UK and NIHR.

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Chai Cancer Care

Camping

in the Co tswolds August 2 019

Finding peace of mind Thinking, let alone talking about death is fraught with difficult emotions for most of us. We look at different approaches that can ease the way ‘Mortality is not an easy topic to discuss,’ says Chai’s Chief Executive Lisa Steele.

‘Whether a patient has had a terminal diagnosis or is in remission, they may have fears and questions for themselves and for their loved ones. Finding a way to express these thoughts and feelings can seem almost impossible yet the relief of doing so can bring immense peace of mind.’

One route is with counselling. ‘What happens with worries, is that they go round and round in our head and we try and understand them to the best of our abilities, but we’re limited by our own experiences and thoughts. So the circles continue,’ says Chai counsellor Barbara Prager. Counselling provides a supportive and professional space, where clients can explore their feelings, where nothing is repeated and anything can be shared: fear, rage, regrets, unfinished business, confessions, a sense of pointlessness.

‘When it’s not all stuck in the person’s head, they can begin to reframe their situation,‘ explains Barbara.

The process can help clients have the conversations they want to but may be putting off. ‘We want to empower people to voice what’s on their mind to their family, spouse, friends and colleagues.

In counselling they imagine how they can start the conversation and test out the various ways so it becomes less daunting.’

As with all counselling at Chai, it is client-led. There’s no checklist of ‘things to discuss’. ‘However, if something is concerning them, for example, getting their papers in order, we can encourage them to take steps to begin the process.’

But it’s not only for the cancer patient; it is also for those facing the loss of a loved one and a family dynamic thrown radically off course. They may need help to confront the unimaginable. Can they share their own fears with someone who is going to die? Can they broach certain subjects they need to bring up? How will life go on without that person? This specific type of support gives clients the space to articulate these acute emotions.

Artistic expression Barbara is also an advocate of creative activities. ‘Where there are high levels of anxiety and stress, the mind

26

goes into overdrive. A release from that is to do something creative, for example join the art group or jewellery class.’ Far from it being a meaningless activity at such a time, she explains, ‘engaging the other side of the brain relieves the logical, thinking side that never stops running.’ Such activities help reduce the amount of negative stress hormones released into the body so the impact of two hours of art is far longer-lasting than the two hours spent doing it. One client reported the art class was the only time in the week he was free of pain.

‘Creative activities reduce the stress hormones released into the body’ For a parent with a terminal diagnosis, creativity could involve putting together a memory box for their child. Keepsakes and photos, a favourite book, letters to open in the future, video clips, can all go in. ‘It takes courage,’ says Lisa Steele, ‘but it has a positive purpose and a long-lasting effect.’ A memory box made by a child, with support from a child therapist, is also a valuable tool to help a child grieve for a lost parent and adjust to their new situation.

‘What’s right for one person isn’t for another: everyone is an individual,’ says Lisa.

‘We’re here to help clients explore the support available and to find their own way through.’ ■

Together Magazine 2020/21

Chai for him

SERVICE SPOTLIGHT

Men have been notoriously shy of using cancer care services.

Now things are changing…

MEN’S SUPPORT GROUP

‘O

f course men have concerns and vulnerabilities about cancer, just as women do. They just express them differently,’ says therapist Miriam Rappaport, facilitator of the first ever men’s support group at Chai. Based at the Heathlands Centre in Manchester, it held just two meetings before Covid-19 took it online, where it has since thrived.

According to the ONS* statistics, more men than women are diagnosed with cancer in the UK annually and prostate cancer is the second most widespread cancer after breast cancer. Despite this, men can be reluctant to open up about their cancer experience. Their response is very often to banter their way through or bottle it up to protect themselves and others from what’s really going on.

‘More men than women are diagnosed with cancer in the UK annually’ ‘In the group, men can talk freely about issues related to cancer – because it affects all aspects of life – practical, financial, sexual and emotional,’ says Miriam. Rather than guide in any direction, she ensures everyone who wants to, can speak and that no one dominates proceedings. From how to

tell loved ones that you have cancer to fears about dying, sharing experiences, ‘gives men emotional support, fostering confidence, reassurance and hope.

It can make a big difference by minimising feelings of isolation.’

‘Men can talk freely about issues related to cancer – because it affects all aspects of life’ Participant Ivor Rosenberg confirms, ‘Hearing from someone who has been through the same operation as me helps me to cope. As we get to know each other we feel more at ease.’ Malcolm Hyman adds, ‘The Zoom sessions have been a lifeline though I have missed coming to the centre.’ The group is not only for those seeking support but for those offering it, too. ‘For a client at the beginning of it all, it helps to hear from someone who’s further along the road.

Maybe they’ll feel, “OK, this is normal,” or “Actually, I’m doing quite well.”’

Groups aren’t for everyone, Miriam acknowledges; some personalities suit individual support. But now, as more men voice their desire for this type of support, Chai has put it in place. ‘The need has been recognised: it’s time to let the men in on the act.’ *Cancer Registration Statistics, England: 2017

PHYSIOTHERAPY AND PROSTATE CANCER ‘Detection and cure rates for prostate cancer are thankfully very high,’ says Graham Silas, Chai physiotherapist. ‘But what that means is more men living with a high incidence of on-going symptoms, such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.’ Graham likes to see clients, if possible, before they have surgery to discuss post-

operative exercises. ‘They help alleviate many of these symptoms.

‘It empowers the client in their rehabilitation journey’ Through educating them about how to engage the muscles of the pelvic floor (yes, both men and women have them), it empowers the client and they become self-sufficient in their rehabilitation journey.’

Taking place in the setting of the open gym sessions at Chai, Graham has witnessed the palpable relief as male clients see they’re not the only one going through this process. ‘The social camaraderie involved is a real positive,’ he says. ‘I once had three gentlemen in the gym together, all with different diagnoses and management strategies for their conditions. Over the months they became close friends, their shared experiences bonding and supporting each other.’ ■ 27

Chai Cancer Care

Speaking up about

ORAL CANCER The number of people getting mouth cancer is on the rise while the average age of patients is falling. Professor Stephen Porter explains who’s at risk and what to do about it

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outh cancer rarely attracts press attention unless a well-known person is affected, for example, Michael Douglas who was diagnosed with it in 2009. Yet it is not that uncommon and the most widespread cancer – oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) – ranks eighth in the world, more prevalent even than cervical malignancy.

Just under 8,000 people are diagnosed annually in the UK with head and neck cancers and about 50% of these are in the mouth. Numbers might drop in the future thanks to the introduction of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination of girls and boys, but the present statistics show numbers of people getting mouth cancer are rising while the average age of those diagnosed is falling. While mouth cancer was once most likely in the older population, the age profile has shifted to the under-50s.

And rather than tobacco or alcohol, the cause is more likely sexually acquired and HPV-driven. Whatever the exact cause, men are more likely to develop mouth cancer than women – though this may be down to tobacco or alcohol use rather than for a gender-specific reason.

outh cancer typically M presents as a long-standing ulcer on the side of the tongue or floor of the mouth 28

RECOGNISE THE SIGNS Mouth cancer typically presents as a long-standing ulcer on the side of the tongue or floor of the mouth although any site in the mouth can be affected. The tumours may appear as solitary painless lumps or abnormal red and/or white patches (without ulceration) on the lining of the mouth.

Oral cancer invades the tissues of the mouth and spreads (metastasises) into the lymphatics of the neck, with the potential to reach sites distant from the mouth. A cancer might also be preceded by isolated changes in the lining of the mouth, when asymptomatic solitary white (termed “leukoplakia”) or red (“erythroplakia”) patches appear.

THE LIFESTYLE COMPONENTS In the UK, long-term tobacco use (in any form) and/or high alcohol consumption remain the most likely causes of mouth cancer. There is no strong evidence that vaping increases the risk of mouth cancer. However, over the past 40 years, it’s also been found to be caused by cancer-forming (oncogenic) types of HPV most probably acquired via sexual routes. In some Indian, Pakistan and Bangladeshi communities, chewing betel leaf or nut preparations are the main drivers. Minor influential factors

T obacco use and/or high alcohol consumption remain the most likely causes of mouth cancer include a diet lacking in fresh fruit and vegetables. But there’s no strong evidence that poor oral hygiene, alcohol-containing mouthwashes, broken teeth, lack of teeth or even tooth whitening treatments cause it.

The greatest lifestyle link is social deprivation where many factors intertwine: the socioeconomically deprived may smoke tobacco and/ or drink alcohol more, they may not respond to healthcare campaigns nor readily make use of healthcare professionals. More infrequent links to mouth cancer include immunocompromised diseases (e.g. oral lichen planus) and genetic disorders (e.g.

Fanconi’s anaemia and dyskeratosis congenita). A small number of people also develop mouth cancer with none of these risk factors, suggesting that subtle, perhaps genetically-driven, factors may influence the development of a tumour.

Together Magazine 2020/21

REDUCE YOUR RISK It is hoped the HPV vaccination, when given in the early teenage years, will reduce the risk of HPV-driven mouth cancer in later life. You can’t entirely eliminate the risk of mouth cancer, but it would seem important to:

O ften it’s your dentist who first detects an issue, an important reason to have regular check-ups NEW DIAGNOSIS PROCESSES Often it’s your dentist who first detects an issue – an important reason to have regular check-ups – and a specialist may then confirm cancer after a biopsy of the lesion. Newer non-invasive methods such as vital staining (using a dye), brush biopsy and fluorescence (both techniques of removing cells to analyse) are being promoted as a way of assisting primary health care in the diagnosis of oral cancer. However, there’s no solid evidence that these accurately diagnose mouth cancer and ultimately a biopsy is almost always required.

ADVANCING TREATMENT AND OUTCOMES Patients with oral cancer receive a detailed evaluation within Head and Neck Oncology units, often entailing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI),

Follow a sensible social and sexual lifestyle Avoid tobacco and heavy alcohol intake Include fresh fruit and vegetables in your daily diet Look after your oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly

Computed Tomography (CT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and other techniques to establish the extent of their disease.

Typically surgery and/or radiotherapy are needed and treatment is undertaken in specialised centres that include teams of surgeons, oncologists, dieticians and restorative dental specialists. Chemotherapy is increasingly used, not to rid the patient of the disease, but to reduce its bulk and spread. Advances also include improved surgical reconstruction, new radiotherapy techniques that avoid damage to nearby tissues, and more effective dental reconstruction. A vast array of new agents are appearing which may lessen the spread of mouth cancer. These “biologicals” and “checkpoint inhibitors” are designed

to slow tumour growth and trigger the immune system to destroy the cancer.

A dvances include new radiotherapy techniques and improved surgical and dental reconstruction The outcomes of a treatment depend upon the extent of the tumour and the health of the patient. For some there may be no significant long-term consequences while, for those who arrive at specialist units with “late” (therefore extensive) disease, the overall 5-year survival may be under 50%. In addition patients have a one-in-five chance of developing new tumours in the mouth or upper airways, meaning lifelong clinical review is important. ■

Professor Porter is the Director of UCL Eastman Dental Institute and an Honorary Consultant in Oral Medicine in UCLH NHS Foundation Trust. He is qualified in both Medicine and Dentistry and holds both MD and PhD research degrees. His principal research interests include immunologically-mediated and potentially malignant disease of the mouth, while his clinical interests are focused upon the non-surgical management of oral mucosal and salivary disease.

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Chai Cancer Care

SMART IDEAS POP-UP STYLE FOR KIDS

The committee of ‘pop-up’ mums: Annabel Sheldon, Michaela Seal, Rachael Benjamin, Claudia Salem, Silvia Slagel, Varda Korczak

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s lockdown loomed in early March, it was countdown time for the first ever Chai Kids and Tweens Fashion Show raising funds for the teenage and children’s services. But, after months of planning, casting and rehearsing models, garnering sponsorship, top kids’ fashion brands and a line up of cool entertainment, the two shows for March 15 were cancelled.

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Instagram success: the online version of the kids and tweens fashion show featured favourite brands, which donated a percentage of takings to Chai. Exceeding all expectations, the event raised £26,000

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But committee chair Claudia Salem, whose brainchild the show was, couldn’t let it go. ‘Youngsters have such a need for Chai’s services, it became my motivation for Plan B: popupandshop.co.uk,’ says mum of four and keen Instagrammer, Claudia. ‘With my committee, we calculated that our supporters would be happy to go online too, and that in fact social media could add a great twist. The brands were happy with it and all we asked was a 20% donation of their takings go to Chai.’

With expert support from Caroline Tunkel, Chai’s Community and Schools Fundraising Executive, a swift turnaround directed supporters to the new online version, including a nailbitingly exciting live raffle with a £700 Sonos Bar as first prize. ‘Our original fundraising target was £20,000 and we ended up raising more than £26,000. My team was amazing,’ says Claudia, ‘the level of generosity and goodwill was incredible and a testament to how much people want to support Chai’s work.’ ■

Together Magazine 2020/21

There’s twice the fun when Chai and fashion get together

IT’S SHOW TIME!

m Ma rga ret Rothe

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urely one of the happiest events in the Chai calendar, 320 avid style followers and Chai supporters gathered at the Kinloss Suite last September for the Chai Fashion with Averyl show.

Featuring clothes for Autumn/Winter 19/20 from the Averyl emporium on Finchley Road, designers included: Riani, Oui, Luisa Cerano, Max Mara, Paule Ka, D.Exterior, Moschino, Valentino and many more. The joy of the sell-out show is not just in the spectacle but the

mix of professional models, former Chai clients and loyal supporters who give their all to raise funds for Chai.

‘I ensure there are price points for everyone, all shapes and ages are represented, fun themes, great music and slick production,’ says Averyl. ‘It’s a day that transports you. Though the cause is serious, there’s a good feeling throughout the whole room.’ Food Story as ever, delivered a menu to delight both eye and palate.

Rosa lyn Sprin ger, Lady Pamela Kalm s

Naomi Fisch

Guests listened intently as Rochelle Goldstein and Selena Levy, best friends since the age of 12, spoke about Chai’s support through their individual breast cancer journeys, for Selena at the age of 42 and Rochelle at 49. ‘Chai helped me feel like a woman again ready to face the world,’ said Rochelle, while Selena described how ‘The doctors made us physically better but it was Chai that wrapped their arms around us, healing our minds and our souls’. Guests dug deep into their smart pockets to raise an incredible £90,000. ■

Laura Avigdori, Emma Myers, Nicole Lever, Claire Abrahams

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Louise Hager, Susa n Burns, Averyl Trup, Lisa Steele

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Chai Cancer Care

The year at Chai Throughout months of cancellations of muchanticipated events, our wonderful supporters have done their utmost to keep fundraising for us. We’re so grateful for all your incredible creativity and devotion.

Time to start clapping!

BAKE OFF – THE SUPPORTERS It’s been a bumper year for baking, and not just sourdough and banana bread. Be inspired by the results of the year’s tastiest fundraisers.

Think Pink Challah Bake Oxford Chabad Society’s Freidy and Eli Brackman organised a breast cancer awareness event with a talk by specialist Prof Michael Douek. Students baked challahs with a pink twist and dined on pink salads and smoothies.

The event raised £225, ‘not too bad for a student population!’ the couple said.

Thalia Squires’ Challah Bake raised £731. ‘Sadly we lost our friend in November and her son has music therapy every week at Chai so it means a lot to us.’

Mega-bake for Mitzvah Day The atmosphere – and the smells – were amazing when more than 50 teenagers from the youth volunteer scheme Project ImpACT, kneaded, braided and baked challah for Chai clients at the Hendon centre. The group also toured the centre and learned about its support for children.

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The business of baking JFS sixth form business studies pupils knew they were onto a winner with their sale of cakes courtesy of a bumper donation by caterer Tony Page. ‘We all agreed the money raised should be donated to Chai – a charity close to all our hearts,’ they said of the £516 raised.

It was organised by Melissa Reingold, Jessica Bier, Lola Marks, Scott Rose and Jamie Brooks.

During lockdown and beyond young supporters have been baking and selling cakes to family and friends from their homes. Our iced gems include Zara Rosenthal, Eden and Tali Rahamim who raised £508, Lia Bella Blitz’s Bake Sale which raised £202.40 and Noa Renton and Lili Green who raised £510. Twelve-year-old Rimona Jacobson has gone into mini production with an on-going sale. So far she has raised £271.

Mega-bake for Mitzvah Day Think Pink Challah Bake

Lia Bella Blitz’s treats

Zara Rosenthal, Eden & Tali Rahamim

Rimona’s smart boxes

Thalia, Zack & Jayden Squires The business of baking at JFS

Together Magazine 2020/21

THE WISEST OF THEM ALL

RE-CYCLING A WINNER

MAD HAIR DAY Cleo & Ellis App le

Manchester’s Chai Lights Committee (above) quiz night at Sedgley Park Rugby Club saw questions, sandwiches and cakes aplenty plus an auction of signed memorabilia. Stewarded

by Mark Samberg and Tony Conway, the evening raised £2000, but left one burning question: when’s the next one?

Young Chai raised £7200 with its nostalgic 90s’ themed quiz at Sinai Primary School.

The 120 young professionals scoured their memories of Pokemon, Game Boy, the Spice Girls and VHS players. The school’s Head Teacher, Mrs Lipshaw said: ‘We have families in our school touched by cancer. Chai has supported our staff so they can care for pupils. We’re delighted to support this cause.’

Douglas Martin Estate Agents generously sponsored the evening.

Tamara Ezra

It’s Chai’s annual celebration of the wackiest hair-dos schoolchildren (and occasionally staff) can come up with.

Mad Hair Day raises awareness of the needs of children affected by a cancer diagnosis, and helps fund the ‘Chai in Schools’ programme, which takes art and play therapy and counselling into schools. Pupils from 11 schools and nurseries across the UK participated, paying £1 each, and raising £836.40.

Crazy hair was seen at Sinai Primary School, Sacks Morasha, JFS, the Shofar Nursery, the Nancy Reuben School, North West London Jewish Day School, King David Primary School, King David Nursery, North Cheshire Jewish Primary School, Bury and Whitefield Jewish Primary School in Manchester and Brodetsky Primary School in Leeds.

Shai, Adi & Yona Berkley

DRAWING SUPPORT The creativity of pupils at the NESS Lubavitch Girls’ School was on show last September at an art exhibition at Lubavitch, Edgware. Organised by Simona Shats, the afternoon raised more than £450 and kids enjoyed art activities, including balloon making. Said Simona, ‘The NESS girls felt empowered by being able to raise money for Chai through their wonderful art. Even the youngest person can make a difference!’

Chai’s art therapist, Darit Puchkov gave a talk about the value of art therapy for children.

Zach Spevock

Maya Davidson

It was another super saddle Sunday at the athletics track in Longford Park, for Chai Cycle Manchester, organised by Rabbi and Rebbetzin Nadav and their son, Netanel Zvi. There were 200 cycles to choose from including tricycles, tandems, side-by-sides, four-on-a-ride, wheelchair cycles and pennyfarthings. With refreshments for sale and a raffle, takings reached £1084.

Rebbetzin Nadav said after, ‘People of all ages and all abilities had great fun. Chai helped us tremendously when I had breast cancer and when my late father was ill.’

The Natalie Shipman Memorial Lecture Exercise and Cancer Survivorship was the fascinating topic of Chai Cancer Care’s 29 th annual lecture at Chai’s f lagship centre in Hendon.

The keynote speaker was Dr Vicky Coyle who is leading a study on cancer and exercise at Queen’s University Belfast.

Named in memory of Natalie, co-founder Susan Shipman’s daughter who passed away from a brain tumour, lectures were the foundation stone of Chai, educating the community about cancer and its treatment. Dr Coyle persuasively illustrated the value of exercise to improve outcomes and quality of life for those being treated for cancer as well as reiterating the guidelines on exercise for well people. Her article is on p24.

Ilan & Noah Sacker

LIGHTING UP TIME! The new intake of Chai Mitzvah volunteers enjoyed the inaugural Chanukah Party on the scheme. Some of Chai’s younger clients also attended and everyone got stuck in to edible dreidel making and decorating. Singing and dancing was on the menu, too, courtesy of Michelle of MA Events.

Coffee ‘n’ kindness In November, Amanda Forman added another year to her age, held a charity coffee morning to celebrate and donated £1515 for Chai.

Supporter Naomi Harris held a Coffee Morning in September, raising £150. ‘Chai is a wonderful charity, I’m glad to be able to do this for it,’ said Naomi.

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Chai Cancer Care

TRIBUTES TO LOVED ONES Two events celebrated the life of Isabel Rothbart, a member of Stanmore Shul.

The first, organised by Glynis Kuzuk, honoured Isabel’s commitment to the shul, where she took women’s Shabbat services and also leyned. The evening featured a talk by Debbie Rowe about Jewish learning, drama performances, and members of the Women’s Learning Experience who spoke about their memories of Isabel.

The second event, a Laugh Out Loud comedy evening was delivered in ripping form by the Nondescript group (above): David Busse, John Smerin, Linda Joseph and Julian Gold presented classic sketches

by Hancock, Pete and Dud, Steptoe and The Two Ronnies, which raised £200.

To commemorate Caroline Rabin who passed away last year, close friends and family completed the Shine Walk marathon last September.

Marcus Ardeman who led the group, said, ‘This was my third time taking part. The first was the year Caroline was diagnosed with cancer.

The second, Caroline and I planned to walk together but she was not well enough. This time was the hardest, walking with the memory of her in my head.’

THE PRESENT PERFECT Come Rosh Hashanah, anticipation builds for the Chai Society Gift Sale at the Hendon centre. Though no one could have predicted the arrival of Hurricane Humberto on the day (remember that?!) it didn’t deter more than 1000 shoppers purchasing from over 30 stalls selling homeware, jewellery, fresh and silk flowers, chic millinery, pottery, edibles including 500 honey cakes donated by Tony Page, Chai Jewellery Workshop pieces, and more. Energy for the day was sustained by way of refreshments from the ‘Chaibucks’ Café. Committee, Co-Chair Debra Zender said: ‘This was our sixth sale and my co-chair, Julia Abrams and I have been

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Marcus raised £1525. Josh, Caroline’s son and friend Karen Beech (above) together raised £1910 and Karen Saragoussi, despite a knee injury which stopped her walking, raised £429. ‘Our friend’s determination, bravery and incredible strength of character inspired us,’ said Karen.

Mrs P’s Girls (below), named in memory of their friend Paulette Warner raised over £2800 with their Coffee Brunch. Gaining a reputation for wonderful cakes, jewellery and other gifts on sale, there was a talk by functional medicine expert Suzy Glaskie.

Nick Lee, owner of Mantra Men’s Hair & Grooming organised a raffle – accumulating £200 – for a free hair cut to raise money in Jack’s memory.

Nick said: ‘Jack was one of my clients.

Jack Morgan with When he was sadly Nick Lee re-diagnosed with cancer, he came to have his head shaved.

Jack was caring, funny and intelligent.

Although I didn’t know him for long, he left a lasting impression.’ Another group of Jack’s friends took on Tough Mudder in remembrance of Jack. Together Miriam Maslin, Sophia Maslin, Ronit Fine, Danielle Fine, Samuel Gottlieb, Kit Findlay, Ben Zelouf, Annabel Coleman, Joel Sandler, Adam Gurvitz, Reiss Jordan and Daniel Calman raised £6658.16.

Toughing it out for Jack

The life of Jack Morgan, who passed away aged 22 in 2019, has been marked by many friends. Supported by Chai through what he described as ‘a ridiculously rare cancer,’ he shared his story on video for a Chai appeal and with his 25,000 Instagram followers.

Birmingham JSOC raised £554 with a Purim sale of mishloach manot (right). overwhelmed by the support. It reflects how Chai is valued.’ The day raised £52,000 and was sponsored by Roundtree Real Estates.

Bearing gifts, Tony Page

with the Chai Society gift

sale team

Days before lockdown, Danny Pollack managed to run the Victoria Park Half Marathon in memory of his friend, Andy Sarsby. ‘I wanted to support the charity that supported Andy and his family, which also means a great deal to me,’ said Danny who raised £1431.25.

Together Magazine 2020/21

T h e best The Wednesday Afternoon Club (WAC) always gets gold stars from clients for its line-up of events and wonderful warm atmosphere. Now that dedication has been nationally recognised. Just look what they’ve been up to…

Judge Rob Rinder’s day in Chai

The charming, wise and warm-hearted TV judge paid a popular visit to the Wednesday Afternoon Club in February.

He captivated the crowd with insights and anecdotes about his journey from young barrister to TV star. A lively Q&A delved into his most intriguing court cases and his Bubba ‘shepping nachas’ when he was on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. Judge Rinder praised Chai’s work, commenting, ‘It isn’t possible to express how amazing places like Chai are for those affected by cancer.’

Words and music from Sid, Lin and John April 22 marked the first of WAC’s online entertainment programme. Singer Sid Austen struck just the right note with his witty self-penned songs. Then came poet and storyteller extraordinaire Lin Bradley who enchanted with her literary skills. Also performing, John Watson, ‘the piano man’ known for adding a touch of musical glitter across the globe from the Four Seasons and Dorchester Hotels in London to the Grand-Hotel du CapFerrat and the St Regis in New York.

What’s motivating Esther Rantzen?

The group found out when the campaigner and national treasure Esther Rantzen chatted with clients over Zoom about her life and how it was

e week h t f o day

loneliness after the death of her husband Desmond Wilcox that led to her founding Childline and Silverline, when she was 71.

Co-organiser Lynne Silver says, ‘She stressed it wasn’t just her but her volunteers who have made them both such a success.’ Asked what her proudest moment was, Esther said it wasn’t her dancing on Strictly, nor her cooking or knitting, but that she managed to cut her own hair during lockdown!

Party in the parlour In May, during the deepest days of lockdown, WAC’s summer party went ahead – in everybody’s homes. Goodie bags with snacks and glow sticks were delivered to 73 clients, and the event was a happy riot of songs, speeches and chat. Hats were de rigeur and proceedings peaked with a rousing version of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’, WAC’s unofficial anthem, led by singer Jonny Moses. Feedback broke the thanks bank! ‘That was absolutely fantastic. Our sadness all turned into smiles’; ‘I’m the happiest I’ve felt all week!’

Two magical months The group scored a coup for July with two top-drawer attractions: first, an exclusive show with magician Nick Einhorn, one of the few to outfox Penn & Teller on Jonathan Ross’s TV show Fool Us. It won Nick a slot in the master magicians’ Las Vegas show. Later that month, the award-winning lyricist Don Black paid the group an online visit. Don spoke about his new book, The Sanest Guy in the Room. He talked about his many songs including Born Free and Ben and writing five Bond themes. Asked how you write a hit song, he couldn’t lie:

‘There’s no magic in that, just hard work.’ Don shared memories from his life and collaborations with Matt Munro and Andrew Lloyd Webber. ‘He told us that fame has never changed him,’ says Lynne, ‘and he felt humbled to join our afternoon. He’s promised to come to Chai in person as soon as that is possible.’ Acclaimed theatre director Charlotte Peters, whose credits include War Horse and An Inspector Calls paid a visit in August. She discussed her career, working in a challenging year and winning a best play in lockdown award for her adaptation of Sebastian Faulks’ book Birdsong.

Coming this autumn…

Entertainer FiL Straughan, comedian Matt Lucas, actor Lesley Joseph, and Middle East editor of the BBC News website Raffi Berg.

Wednesday Club winners Lynne Silver, Andee Roback, Barbara Freedman and Ann Stanton were recognised for their achievements in the Wednesday Afternoon Club (WAC) when they won Volunteer Team of the Year at the annual JVN Celebration of Volunteering Awards.

Following the event, Lynne said, ‘Thirteen years ago we began with just four clients around a card table.

Now it’s a family who laugh, sing, dance and chat, all within the safety and love of Chai’s huge heart. It’s an amazing honour to help others in their darkest times.’

Roback, Ann Stanton, Andee ra Freedman ba Bar & er Silv ne Lyn

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Chai Cancer Care

MANCHESTER’S CHANUKAH GIFT SALE took place on 4 December at Maccabi Community & Sports Club. Stalls sold smart hats, personalised and baby gifts and clothes, handmade cards, jewellery, skincare and doggie accessories. Pieces by clients from the art workshop were also on sale while George, our ‘tap and give’ contactless donation guy, proved to be a big attraction, too.

A total of £620 was raised.

POKER FACES AND HIGH ROLLERS gathered for Lou’s Charity Casino Night last November hosted by supporter Louise BenNathan. More than 120 guests played Texas Holdem Poker, blackjack and roulette with fantastic prizes up for grabs in the raffle. The £7500 raised was split between Chai Cancer Care and the Institute of Cancer Research.

A CONCERT-ED EFFORT Music from all eras and corners of the world entertained over 100 people in loyal fundraiser Vivien Spevock’s ‘A Musical Celebration’ evening.

Held at Wimbledon & District Synagogue last January, the event featured Yiddish and Ladino music, Beatles tracks and continental tunes. A bumper raffle was drawn

by Zach, Vivien’s grandson boosting takings to £2100.

Vivien’s loyal support also includes the yearly Spevock Family Walk, most recently a coastal hike. A total of £2262 was raised including £202.50 by grandsons Zach and Levi.

JEREMY KUTNER, was set to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon in March, which was then postponed. Donations kept coming in however and Jeremy, whose wife Rosie is in our Big C campaign is looking forward to the rescheduled run. So far, he’s raised £2480.

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# T WO P O I N T S I XC H A L L E N G E When April’s marathon was cancelled, Chai’s incredible supporters invented all sorts of replacement activities in the 2.6 challenge raising a grand total of £13,893. Virtual medals to…

Alissa and Richard Freeman completed 26 exercises repeated 26 times, among them deadlifts, press ups and burpees. Richard was diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia just a week before their son Jacob was born, turning a time of joy into one of fear. The Freemans reached out to Chai: ‘We never imagined needing support at such a young age but Chai was immediately there for us.’

The Freemans far exceeded their £260 target, raising £3585.

Team Marks Home Heroes led by ‘Captain’ Barbara 89, cajoled her family into diverse 2.6 challenges. She completed 2.6 miles walking in the corridors and gardens of her apartment block. Then 13 family members including children, in-laws and grandchildren got onboard: 26 cakes were baked, 18km cycled, and 26 more minutes of exercise achieved. The family notched up 52 miles and £1225. For Barbara, who lives on her own, it was a chance to unite with her family through something brilliant and meaningful. ‘I had so much fun! The challenge lifted my morale.

Though we didn’t see each other, we were connected by Chai.’

David Landes raised £408 by cycling 26 miles. ‘I’m a volunteer, taking patients to and from treatments,’ says David. ‘Chai supported my wife Lesley for 10 years.’

Tracy Birne’s family raised £2,510.75 through a mammoth joint effort.

Daughter Adele went for 260 continuous hulahoops and 2hrs, 6 minutes of trampolining, son Joseph ran 2.6km in the garden, husband David cycled 26km indoors and Tracy did the same outdoors. She said, ‘I reached the end of my annus horribilis in 2019 but 2020

hasn’t turned out as expected either!’

Tracy has been supported by Chai’s reflexology, physio and Image Resource services.

Dedicated cyclist and Chai physio Graham Silas cycled 26.2 miles raising £68.

Nathan 11 and nine-year-old twins Ben & Gaby Josephs donated £50 raised by completing 26 forward rolls each.

Anouska Plaut led three generations in their challenge. Anouska walked 2.6km in her wedding dress to see one side of the family, then a further 2.6km to wave to other members of the family. Grandma Ingrid did 26 laps of the garden, hubby Mike, did 26 keepyuppies on a table tennis bat, and son Louis crunched through 26 sit-ups.

Collectively, they raised £1096.

Sarah Naar, who has been supported

by Chai raised £624 with 26 reps of crunches, press ups, squats and many more! ‘For many with cancer, who spend time in clinical environments, it is such a difference to visit Chai. The moment you arrive it’s peaceful and relaxing. It doesn’t feel like a hospital because it isn’t.’

Annabelle and Elijah Fleishmann raised £217.50 because they wanted to help Chai at this difficult time.

Annabelle ran 26 laps of the garden followed by 26 skips: Elijah did 260 bounces with his football.

Lyla Goodman, Chai’s services administrator raised £647 doing 260 crunches (that’s about £2.50 per sit-up!).

Further #2.6 fundraisers and donations came in from • Joe Sassoon – £100 • Jodi and Bradley Lazarus who walked 5.2 miles – £150 (between Chai and The Oli Leigh Trust) • Yvonne Richards Zoom charity tea party – £50 • Nick Byre cycled 26 times around Hampstead Heath and raised over £500

Together Magazine 2020/21

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Anyone and everyone can take part in our ‘Week for Chai’.

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Individually, as a family, or virtually with friends, choose an activity or event, have fun and support Chai too!

To take part and for more information, please contact info@chaicancercare.org.

All your donations will go towards Chai’s specialised services across the UK.

presents

FEAST W I T H E D

• Ed Shaerf of Feast

by Ed led 84 households in a cookery masterclass preparing a delicious three-course meal.

‘More please!’ was the verdict by particpants.

A MA STERC L A SS WITH ED SHAER F

Chai Lifeline Cancer Care Registered Charity No. 1078956

WHEN TWO BECOMES 100 KM

MACCABI’S HOME RUNS

Kosher Kingdom’s Round the Pound fundraising scheme was on hold during lockdown but re-started in July giving customers the chance to round up their bill to the nearest pound and thereby create on-going donations to eight local charities including Chai which received £2371. Kosher Kingdom’s constant support is so appreciated. The store was the first to give window space to George, Chai’s contactless donation initiative.

With the Saracens’ stadium off limits, families did home starts, making sure May’s fun run went ahead. The Benjamin family – Jonathan, Jo, Oli, Sienna and Aimee (pictured) – took part. Jonathan said: ‘While we were comfortably at home, others were suffering. That spurred us into action. It’s important our children don’t grow up in a bubble but help others.’ Also running from home: Louise Nathan, Lisa, Jessie and Zack Benedick, Sammy Deacon, Lisa and Rafi Foreman, Daniel Jacobs and Phil, Daniel and Benjy Singer. Our fabulous runners raised £2025.

ASK THE EXPERT A global audience of more than 1000, tuned in to Chai’s Breast Cancer & Covid-19 webinar in May, a vital and informative conversation and Q&A between Miss Joanna Franks, Consultant Breast & Oncoplastic Surgeon at UCLH and Dr Adrian Tookman, Medical Director, Marie Curie Cancer Care. They covered the importance of

Ready, steady, cook challenge

Here’s a round-up of this A Week year’s annual fundraising f orC ha i festival.

Being socially th th 11 – 18 May distanced didn’t stop WE’RE DOING IT FOR CHAI! heaps of Zoom quizzes What will you do? and cook-alongs, poker tournaments, bingo nights and local runs, raising almost £6064. AWeekforChai

www.chaicancercare.org

ROUND THE POUND

With no physical bridge tournaments on the cards Chai’s usual sell-out events looked doomed. So Carol Ellman, Susan Freedman and Samantha Glazer pooled resources and players for a joint online tournament. The

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Sisters Orielle & Eliza Levy admit they are not the silent types, which is why they knew keeping schtum for 12 hours straight would be a humdinger of a way to get sponsored.

On 23 August they went cold turkey with a total shutdown: not even a text message or a social media post was allowed. Now they can shout about it, at last count raising £2730.

Brian Balkin’s family have been supported over the past two years by Chai’s services. In his first ever sponsored run, he wanted to say thank you – and did so splendidly, running the Harrow Half Marathon last September and raising £669.

Now Brian has a full marathon in his sights!

VIRTUAL BRIDGE EVENTS JOIN FORCES

11-18 M AY

SHHHHHH…FUNDRAISERS AT WORK!

Brothers Jake and Ben Musikant (sons of Chai Medical Patron Joanna Franks) ran 100km as their way of giving back to Chai and to celebrate their grandfather Bryan Franks’ recent recovery from cancer. They shared out the kilometres, smashing through the challenge. Ben is 11 and Jake is 10, so it’s a pretty awesome effort!

Their staggering £9113 donation went towards the children and family service.

DOING A RUNNER

A WEEK FOR CHAI

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Eight years ago we were thrilled when The 4 Sons a cappella singing group began supporting Chai after the grandfather of two of the cofounders, Asher and Rafi Levy, came to Chai. ‘It was the highlight of his week,’ say the brothers. Now known as Kol Tov, the group has since raised more than £100,000 for charities. For Purim, the group performed to 30 audiences in homes across North West London during an 8-hour marathon, which raised £7697.72. George, Asher and Rafi, Gideon Caplan and Noam Bernstein were joined by Shimon Hurst and performed a new Joseph medley alongside many other beloved tunes.

June event raised £2500, and players were so eager for another, a further event in July raised £1300. Look out for more bridge events soon.

Po ke r

SHARING THE PURIM JOY

symptom checking and going to the GP, what to expect in a breast clinic visit and managing a breast cancer diagnosis in Covid-19. While Joanna raised concerns about the reduction in referrals during Covid-19 and the implications for diagnosis and treatment, she also offered reassurance: for every 20 women who come to her clinic, 19 are clear. Despite fatalities because of Covid-19, both speakers reiterated that they had treated cancer patients who had recovered from coronavirus. It was a hugely valuable event, as feedback testified, for the information it provided in uncertain times.

Wednesday 13th May 6:30pm prompt

Limited space available

Come and join FEAST’s chef Ed and take part top-class in an exclusive virtual cookery masterclass from the comfort of your own home.

Individually, or as a family, Ed will guide you through the steps to cook up a high quality three course meal using simple ingredients .

So, let Ed lead the way, for the day and finally become a chef FEAST away!

To secure your place information head overand to receive further fund/weekforchai2020 to virginmoneygiving.com/ .

Remember to insert the code ED with your voluntary donation in the message box.

Chai Lifeline Cancer

Care Registered Charity

No. 1078956

• Aimee Shaerf, daughter of Ed (see above) presented a pizza-making class on Zoom.

• Rachel, Lee, Poppy and Louis Harris organised a fundraising Family’s Got Talent contest.

• Chai Lights Bingo gave new meaning to shouting ‘house’ in their virtual bingo game!

• The Funkids Challenge – Manchester Chai’s Community Fundraiser Jilly Berens, organised this five-step workout challenge for schoolchildren to exercise, donate and tag five more friends to do the same.

• Jakki Friendman Zoomed into homes for a gravity-defying cupcake demo.

• Jeannette Moss made masks and bandanas for NHS staff and donated 100 to Chai for its staff.

• Lewis Harris, Chai’s physio in the north organised a poker tournament splitting the proceeds between Chai and The Friendship Circle in Manchester.

• Sherry Marks designed a poster for A week for Chai and supporters donated to colour in the poster.

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Chai Cancer Care

EASY TO DIGEST The second of Chai’s online webinars during Covid-19 was a must-see on food benefits and no-nos with registered nutritionist Jenna Hope. Hosted by journalist and celebrity interviewer Suzanne Baum, Jenna addressed the questions of more than 800 households including children’s picky food habits; breakfast: yes or no?; combatting stress eating and best foods pre- and post-workout. Jenna’s achievable, sustainable suggestions and thorough knowledge made for an inspiring session.

SEW GOOD Mandy Popeck (below) began making masks during lockdown under the brand Mandy4Masks, and donating to worthy causes. Chai is one of them. ‘They have been a lifeline to our family and for relatives and friends facing cancer,’ she said as she handed over £500 to Chai.

CAPLINS DO THE 92 Josh Caplin, father, Bob and brother-in-law Stephen Goldman wanted to mark the 10th anniversary of the passing of Roz, Josh’s mum. Both Chai and North London Hospice supported Roz and the family through her illness. The keen football fans – Josh and Bob for Leyton Orient and Stephen for Sunderland – took on footie fans’ classic challenge: visiting all 92 football grounds in the UK league in under 92 hours. Said Josh, ‘It was a great way to combine our passion for football with raising money. Dad worked tirelessly on the route, discussing it with the current world record holders of the challenge.’ The team was fortunate to have the use of a superbly equipped motorhome from Spaceships Rentals, which meant no need for overnight accommodation. So did they do 92 in 92?

Yes – and with eight full minutes to spare!

Surpassing their target of £9200, Josh, Bob and Stephen raised £16,000.

THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR FUNDRAISING Walking enthusiast Helen Reissner completed a very personal challenge in aid of Chai, walking 20 miles over five days in the summer.

Almost a year since being diagnosed with ovarian cancer, Helen has recovered

EMBRACING CHAI WITH BRACELETS • As part of her fundraising drive for the 40th Virgin Money London marathon (postponed from April) Lucy Ross began making personalised bracelets and key rings @loverubyross. Lucy has been overwhelmed with orders. ‘Never in my wildest dreams did I think it would be as busy and rewarding as this.

I’m so grateful to everyone for their orders and their support for Chai, which is so close to my heart.’ So far, Lucy has so far raised £6853.

• Sixteen-year-old Jessica Bentley was so concerned about charities losing out during Covid-19, she put her crafting talents to work making bracelets that bring delight to the wearer and funds for Chai. Jessica has donated £275.

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• Issy, Scarlett and Gracie Becker have raised £1700 making bracelets. They said, ‘We chose Chai because of the amazing support and love they give to everyone.’

• Emmy Shindler and family have all been supported since her grandfather Russel was diagnosed with terminal cancer. ‘We’re always made to feel so welcome. Having art therapy is helping me understand my life without Russel. My friends Ellia and Moriah are helping me make the bracelets and we have donated £200.’

well from surgery and chemotherapy and was eager to give back during lockdown. ‘Cancer takes an emotional and physical toll and I want to ensure others are supported, like I have been, by Chai.’ Helen raised £1776.

In December, our volunteers were delighted to appear at the Stanmore and Canons Park Shul Chanuka fête and share information and awareness of Chai’s services.

Chai became part of Waitrose’s Community Matters programme this year when its Mill Hill East branch was selected to be a beneficiary, bringing in £426.

SEE YOU AT THE TOP Close friends Abi Cane, Ashlee Bannon and Tashy Pope whose aunt was supported

by Chai, celebrated their bat mitzvahs this year and marked the occasion by scaling the heights of the O2 centre in London’s Docklands. The girls raised £2517.

HAIR TODAY… When five-year-old Summer Tunkel learned many of Chai’s fundraising events were cancelled, she decided her long hair, which took five years to grow, would be for the snip and as soon as hairdressers opened up. Off came 12 inches, which was sent to Zichron Menachem to be used to make wigs for children going through cancer treatment.

Summer’s generosity raised £1610.

Chana and Sarah Garson, aged 12 and 7 cut their hair in aid of Chai raising over £887.

Chana and Sarah said, ‘Sadly we know family and friends with cancer who have been helped by Chai. This is our “thank you”.’

Skye Abrahams let her locks go for Chai and raised £207 in sponsorship. She said: ‘What the charity does for people going through cancer is wonderful. I wanted a haircut and once it was cut, why throw it away when it can be made into wigs?’

Together Magazine 2020/21

SEE THE VALUE This year’s visor heroes include JFS pupils, who under the leadership of school technician Robert Smart went into production for the NHS and several charities including Chai.

We received 40 of these essential pieces of equipment for when our teams return. They even made some in our Chai purple!

FULL OF VITALITY In early March Jon Bezalel ran the Vitality Big Half marathon through East London, in memory of his brother Daniel who recently passed away. ‘For those closest to him, life will never be the same again,’ says John.

‘The support shown by friends, family and colleagues has been overwhelming and the pain would have been all the more difficult were it not for Chai. For that our family is forever grateful.’ Jon raised £4080 split between Chai and homeless charity The Connection at St Martins.

KNIT-A-THON Needles were busy from (almost) dawn till dusk during the Chai knitting group’s six-hour marathon led by volunteer Norma Ellis. Snacks, drinks (and a little Prosecco) kept fingers MOVEMBER MATTERS The campaign that highlights men’s health was in Leon Gray’s mind during November. ‘I recently had some wonderful help from Chai, and decided to grow a moustache for ‘Movember’ and donate the money to Chai to say “thank you”. I collected £640 from friends and family.’

finest moustaches and ‘Mosistas’ walked or ran 60 kilometres over the month, to represent the 60 men lost to suicide each and every hour across the world.

Energetic fundraiser Elkan Adler from the Magen Avot community in Finchley gave the month a Jewish spin, renaming it MoCheshvan and raising £1837 for Chai Cancer Care and Jami, the Jewish mental health charity. Fellow ‘Mobros’ grew their

Clockwise from top left: Elkan Adler, Cecil Taitz, Josh Abeles & Marco Spizzichino

Ways to give Visit chaicancercare.org to learn about services and support, read our fundraising news and see how to get involved. Quick links make donating easy. Whether your donation is large or small, your support enables us to be there for whoever needs us.

MARK A SPECIAL OCCASION Nominate Chai to receive a donation in lieu of gifts.

Contact Jacki Stanton: jackistanton@chaicancercare.org or call on 020 8457 3231 FUNDRAISE FOR US Put on an event or take on a challenge for Chai. We can support and advise you on how to make it a roaring success.

Contact Danielle Blumenblatt: danielleb@chaicancercare.org or call on 020 8457 3394 DONATE ONLINE Swift, secure and easy, just click on the Make a Donation tab on the top right hand side of our website and follow the instructions.

nimble as they fashioned squares for blankets and babies’ hats. As well as selling the items for Chai, they were all sponsored to take part and raised £3898.

LEAVE A LEGACY Support Chai with a legacy in your Will. Visit Jewish Legacy Giving (jewishlegacy.org.uk) to find out more. If you wish to tell us of your intention, we would also be honoured to recognise your generosity during your lifetime.

Contact Lisa Steele: lisas@chaicancercare.org or call 020 8202 2211.

BY PHONE We take donations over the phone.

Call Jacki Stanton on 020 8457 3231 or Dana Levene on 020 8457 3232.

BY POST Send cheques or charity vouchers to: Chai Cancer Care 142 – 146 Great North Way London NW4 1EH GIFT AID YOUR DONATION If you are a UK taxpayer, Gift Aid increases your donations by 25%.

Tell us when you make your donation, or download a Gift Aid Declaration form from our website.

DONATE AS YOU SHOP George Rosenfeld of the Kol Tov singing group is the friendly face of Tap to Give our contactless way to donate £3 with your credit or debit card.

Find him in many kosher stores in London and Manchester.

Did you know you can also support Chai when you shop online with Amazon? Visit smile.amazon. co.uk and select Chai Cancer Care as your chosen charity (it will appear as Chai-Lifeline Cancer Care) and Amazon will donate 0.5% of the net purchase price (excluding VAT, returns and shipping fees).

GIFT ONLINE Next time you host a Shabbat dinner, lunch or party, invite your guests to skip the gift… and head to the GiveitAPP to donate direct to Chai. Visit www.giveitapp.org 39

Chai Cancer Care

How does Chai care?

Thanks to the generosity of the Thanks to the generosity of the community, Chai Cancer Care community, Chai Cancer Care provides specialised support to provides specialised support to thousands of people across the thousands of people across the UK who have been affected by UK who have been affected by a cancer diagnosis. a cancer diagnosis.

To find out more please call our Freephone Helpline on For more information on our 0808 808range 4567 orofvisit extensive specialised www.chaicancercare.org services and care across the UK*, please call our Freephone helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit www.chaicancercare.org Services are available at: Services available at: North Westare London South NorthLondon West London Essex South London Hackney Essex Southend Hackney Birmingham Southend Leeds Birmingham Liverpool Leeds South Manchester Liverpool North Manchester South Manchester Glasgow North Manchester Clients’ Homes Glasgow Clients’ Homes

*Due to Covid-19, not all services are currently available.

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Chai Chai Lifeline Lifeline Cancer Cancer Care Care Registered Registered Charity Charity No. No. 1078956 1078956

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