‘In person’ is a phrase we have come to appreciate in ways we could never have imagined only three years ago. Cancer does so much to redirect one’s plans, without the added impact of the pandemic.
Looking back to when clients could not benefit from some of our services because of Covid-19 restrictions, makes witnessing their joy at returning to our centres truly wonderful. Our Client Services Managers and practitioners also missed the face-to-face and communal contact it affords. That said, the flexible, ‘Chaibrid’ approach we developed to maintain services during the pandemic will continue, ensuring no person is ever without support.
Born out of their own experiences of cancer, the co-founders of Chai – my mother Frances Winegarten z’l and Susan Shipman –determined always to put the person at the centre of support. Across the pages of this issue of together, you’ll hear testimony from clients of all ages, about how our services give them space to be totally themselves –with no expectation. To hear clients say, ‘I feel you are here just for me,’ lets us know we are fulfilling the original aim.
There is no let-up, sadly, in the numbers who need our services as Lisa Steele writes in her article about the cancer/Covid-19 legacy. The medical professionals who counsel and contribute their knowledge to Chai, this year, present articles that update us on clinical advances covering lesserknown cancers as well as those which occur more commonly. We also highlight collaborations with other organisations in
the fields of genetics and bereavement, that will strengthen our collective ability to support people.
Innovation is a driving force at Chai and because of the pandemic, fresh and creative ways to promote awareness and fundraise have blossomed. Our online campaigns have touched thousands more people and that virtual support is converting into real-life activity. New and existing donors and fundraisers have seized every opportunity to do something amazing – and occasionally daredevil – for Chai.
We are very blessed to have this incredible community of support surrounding us and want to say ‘thank you’ (in print, if not ‘in person’) for the part you continue to play: in One BIG Community for Chai, on treks and challenges, through legacies, and myriad other events that enable us to keep going.
So often clients say they were encouraged to contact Chai by friends or family – proof that we are deeply rooted in the community and recognised for our cancer support services. It is a two-way relationship and we are humbled by your loyalty and trust. That you value what we do inspires us daily, to meet our challenges and give of our best to all those who need us.
The Rt. Hon. Lord Young of Graffham CH DL
Founder Presidents
Susan Shipman
Frances Winegarten z’l
Chairman
Louise Hager
Chief Executive
Lisa Steele
Honorary Patrons
Maureen Lipman CBE
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis
Louise Hager
Philip Hertz
Jonathan Hodes
Alexandra Maurice
Richard Segal
Susan Shipman
Leon Shelley
Dr Adrian Tookman
Lord Young CH DL
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
Prof Gordon Jayson
Mr Amir Kaisary
Dr Daniel Krell
Dr Jonathan Krell
Dr David Landau
Prof Jonathan Ledermann
Dr Gillian Marks
Dr Jane Neerkin
Prof Gordon Rustin
Prof Karol Sikora
Prof Albert Singer
Dr Jonathan Sive
Dr Adrian Tookman
Dr Laura Tookman
Brian Brick
Jo Coleman
Alan Fell
Jonathan Freedman
Michael Glass
Diane Kenwood
Alexandra Maurice
Robert Prevezer
Marc Samuels
Dr Adrian Tookman
Louise Hager ChairmanCancer’s domino effect
Post-pandemic, Chai is seeing clients with more complex, long-term needs, writes CEO Lisa Steele
When three-year-old Joey Bloom was diagnosed with kidney cancer during lockdown, three generations of his family turned to Chai
The ice man of northwest London
The trials and triumphs of Coby Bull on his intrepid Lapland challenge
This rare cancer mainly affects youngsters and can be mistaken for growing pains. Dr Sandra Strauss highlights when to take notice
Bowled over by Sir Andrew Talking sport and support for the bereaved, former England cricket captain, Sir Andrew Strauss OBE in conversation with Giles Coren
How we deliver services is allimportant to reaching clients in the regions
Keynote Speaker:
FRCP
Jonathan A
of Medical Oncology
Director
Cancer Institute
You did it again! Find out how one weekend raised £2.7m for Chai
Ignoring the lump didn’t make it disappear. After surgery, Neil Ben has Chai’s help to restore his health and wellbeing
How Chai, Chana and Jnetics provide information and support about cancercausing BRCA gene mutations
Lord Young, former cabinet minister and President of Chai for 16 years, opens up about his personal commitment to the organisation
Blood cancer poses many treatment issues, but the outlook is improving, writes consultant Dr Jonathan Sive
Fashion, food, phenomenal speakers and fundraising. Chai fashion with Averyl is back!
Leaving a legacy is such a personal decision but the benefits make a difference to everyone involved
Find out why clients consistently rate this ancient, pressure-point therapy so highly
The most common cancer for men is survivable if caught early. Dr Gillian Marks talks through the treatment options
Busting the myths about how this subtle therapy achieves results
Hold on to your (purple) hats! It’s been a bumper year for talks, tournaments, sales and more
You rose to the challenge to raise money… up mountains, on bikes, in mid-air, even at the hair salon…
Ways to give We make it easy to donate
Date: Monday 31 October 2022
Lecture begins: 8pm
There will be a Q&A session after the lecture
Please email danielleb@chaicancercare.org to register your interest. There is no charge.
Cover photograpy Matt Garcia. This edition of together is generously sponsored by The Emmes Foundation Editor: Deborah Wald
Design: Creative & Commercial © Chai Cancer Care 2022
CANCER CARE
in person or
for
CANCER TREATMENT
It’s now nearly three years since the world shifted into a new state of being because of Covid-19. When all that we took for granted as routine and predictable was turned upside down and thrown into disarray.
I could easily write the above sentences, replacing Covid-19 with the word ‘cancer’ and the same would apply. A world so familiar, now suddenly strange, full of unknowns about the present and the future, interrupted by medical interventions, new demands and restrictions. Many of the clients we currently see at Chai are carrying the impact of both a cancer diagnosis and the consequences of Covid-19.
The NHS is under enormous pressure as it tries to cope with the pandemic aftershocks and a shortfall of 100,000 staff. According to July 2022 statistics from Cancer
Research UK, one million fewer screening invitations were sent out in 2020, compared to 2019. There has been a 44.1% drop in the number of women aged over 45 screened for breast cancer. One million people are currently waiting for diagnostic tests. The number of people who were able to see a specialist within 14 days of an urgent suspected cancer was 83.2%, well short of the NHS target of 93%, last met in May 2020.
These hard statistics do not make for easy reading when translated into what that means for a real person: a delayed screening or diagnosis may mean a cancer has progressed from stage one or two to stage three or four by the time treatment begins. The backlog of surgical procedures in the NHS can result in a patient being gowned up and prepped for surgery only to have their operation cancelled at the very last minute. It happens.
The pandemic may be receding but there is a legacy that isn’t disappearing so easily. CEO Lisa Steele explains the impact of delayed diagnoses on our clients and the specialised services that support them
At Chai we often talk about the ‘ripple effect’ of cancer; how a diagnosis affects not only the patient but also those surrounding them: parents, children, partners, friends and colleagues. Clients tell us that Covid-19 has added an extra layer of trauma, magnifying the physical and emotional hit that they and their loved ones are already experiencing because of the cancer.
With our team of Client Services Managers, I see the evidence of this: an intensified need for support, more young parents diagnosed with cancer contacting us, and more members of the same family requesting our services. In our Chai Medical Clinic, which provides three-way multi-disciplinary care with The Royal Free Hospital in London and Marie Curie, Dr Rachel Craig reports a 21% rise in the number of clients presenting with pain management and palliative issues including those diagnosed late or with new co-morbidities.
Since the pandemic began, counselling appointments have gone up by 33%. Each represents one piece of a growing emotional and logistical jigsaw which can now take in several generations of one family. Now, if Covid-19 left anything behind that is good, it’s that access is easier than ever: in a centre or through our Home Support Service, via Zoom or Teams or on the telephone. It means clients can join a yoga or Pilates class remotely and be supported while shielding or after surgery. There are still good reasons, though, for clients to come into their Chai centre: to enjoy the uplifting and healing atmosphere and to get away from medical settings where the cancer is the centre of attention, to a place where the person is the focus. For new clients especially, visiting Chai helps dispel any notions of a clinical environment or approach – we are very far from that.
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Chai in Schools programme. So fundamental to our services is it, that we cannot imagine not having this essential link in our chain of support for families. Children and teens, just as much as adults, need to be able to process what is happening when there is a cancer diagnosis or bereavement in the family. Appointments for children are up by 63%, leapfrogging demand for all our other services.
We have supported children in 38 Jewish and non-Jewish schools over the last three years, at both primary and secondary level. That our expertise is called for across the educational spectrum shows not only awareness of the programme but also appreciation of its importance. It’s an acknowledgement, as well, that we are trusted to understand the nuances of culture that exist in a wide range of schools.
The change in demand for our services is across the board. After a fall in therapy sessions (such as massage and reflexology) because of Covid-19 restrictions, clients are now benefitting from these treatments, and appointments have more than doubled in recent months. We now run 17 groups – from art to bereavement, BRCA to men’s support – and more are planned. To meet the need, our team is expanding. We now have 41 counsellors and 36 therapists across the UK. It’s intense working with people who are dealing with cancer. Along with their professional accreditation and experience, a counsellor or therapist needs to possess those intangible qualities that make them a good fit for Chai, where everything is delivered from the heart.
At a time when school counsellors are dealing with the mental health fallout of Covid-19, Chai counsellors can relieve the school of an additional burden and give parents peace of mind that their child is being supported very specifically and without disruption to their education. We are so gratified by the input and commitment of the schools we work with, to ensure their pupils/our clients receive the support they need to grow into capable, resilient adults.
As Chai looks ahead, we heed the wisdom of our Medical Advisory Panel, chaired by Dr Adrian Tookman, to help us prepare for the future. Despite all the negative news, many more people are living for longer with, or beyond, cancer. Surgery is more sophisticated; chemotherapy can sometimes be a daily pill. But pills can have side effects and ‘successful’ surgery can cause ongoing health issues. The cancer/Covid-19 domino effect is still in motion and the numbers of new diagnoses are up.
We do not charge for our services but without any statutory funding, our annual running costs, currently £3.5m, are going in only one direction. Our generous, ever-expanding community of patrons, donors, sponsors and fundraisers are the sole means by which we can make a difference to people’s lives. Your continued support for the community’s cancer support organisation means literally everything to us, and to those who turn to us at their time of need.
‘We now run 17 groups – from art to bereavement, BRCA to men’s support’
‘ Appointments for children are up by 63%, leapfrogging demand for all our other services’
When three-year-old Joey Bloom had a scooter accident on holiday in August 2020 and scans revealed a kidney tumour, parents Nikki and Ray and grandparents Linda and Michael Bibring saw their worlds turned upside down. Chai was there for each of them
e’d just come off the beach in the South of France and Joey was practising scooter tricks when he fell. He started screaming uncontrollably, which wasn’t normal. Later in the evening, when he began vomiting, we rushed him to the nearest A&E in Monaco. Lockdown restrictions meant only my mum could come in with me, to translate. After a CT scan, the doctor said, “It looks like there’s a mass… but don’t worry.”
Immediately, my brain went straight to the “C” word – I can’t say it, even now. We were transferred by emergency ambulance to a hospital in Nice, better able to manage the situation, and here they confirmed a Wilms’ tumour. It was already eight inches long and growing aggressively. The fall had perforated it and he was bleeding internally.
The doctor ruled out any possibility of Joey travelling so we couldn’t come home. I was 19 weeks pregnant and suddenly our lives had been turned upside down and shaken like a snow globe. In intensive care, Joey was in a lot of pain, drifting in and out of sleep. When he woke, he’d ask: “Mummy, why have I got so many tubes in me?” Ray and I took a hotel room opposite the hospital and did shifts to be with Joey, swapping over so the other one could rest.
I’ve never been good at accepting help, I’d rather give it. But a good friend working for Camp Simcha said, ‘Let us take care of the transport to and from the hospital,’ and having that burden taken off us, was a true blessing. Friends said, ‘You’re amazing.’ But I knew I wasn’t. I’d been whacked across the face with a sledgehammer.
Because Chai was closed at the time and we were all at home, my first counselling session with Chai was by phone in a car park – I didn’t want Joey to hear. I needed to cry and scream. I wanted to understand why this had happened. I needed structure to get me through. I also needed to wallow in my trauma. Joey would still be having treatment when the baby arrived… would I sink? The counsellor gently helped me put the confused, layered pieces of this jigsaw into one big picture. Later on, when I was offered massage, it was so welcome –like a huge, beautiful gift.
A children’s therapist gave us ways to talk to Joey about what was going on, in a way he could understand and the counselling gave me a way to look at events and take positives from them, I want Joey to have whatever support he needs but I also want him to have a normal life. Because what happened to him does not define him. It doesn’t define us.
Thankfully, the bleeding stopped, and the plan was for chemotherapy to shrink the tumour by 40% and then to operate to remove the kidney. Snuggling Joey into me, I nestled into his hair. The oncologist promised me he wouldn’t lose it. But he did. Ever since, I say to every doctor, “Please… manage my expectations”. The painkillers gave Joey night terrors. It was horrific and I felt utterly helpless.
Between chemo sessions, Joey couldn’t do any of the things a little boy wants to, in case he ruptured the tumour again. All the while I was getting bigger with Scooby (the name Joey gave Jesse, before he was born).
Each morning I’d pick the hair off his pillow, though my mum would try and get there and do it before to save my heartache. The day of Joey’s operation was one of the worst of my life, but getting that thing out of his body was what mattered. Finally, in mid-October, we arrived home. The next day, 28 weeks of chemo began at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).
W
hen the doctors gave us the diagnosis, I thought only of the here and now. It was all about the practicalities. My chief concern was to support Joey, Nikki and Ray, and take whatever pressure we could, off them. Day-to-day, there were hospital visits, bringing them food and fresh clothes. Between July and October Nikki was getting bigger and we had to buy maternity clothes as well.
In ICU, Joey was like Bambi, so fragile. Nikki and Ray could barely cuddle him because of all the medical equipment in the way. The fallout began back in London: I felt overwhelmed, emotions seeped through. Again, because of Covid restrictions, we couldn’t see our son Lee, his wife Robyn, and our other grandchildren and Joey couldn’t play with his cousins. It was stressful for everyone, and I took on those emotions.
Having been a volunteer for many years, I couldn’t believe I now needed to reach out to Chai. My counsellor was a very good match. She pointed out how I de-personalise language to deal with things. With her I began to articulate the impact of all this on me. I’m prone to migraines, so I had some massage and reiki, which was so healing. I allowed myself to accept. I feel an inextricable bond with Chai as a supporter, as a volunteer and now as a recipient of this very special support.
‘I wanted to understand why this happened. I needed structure to get me through’
Watching Joey in intensive care, not knowing if he’d make it to the next day, I had an out-of-body experience, looking down on myself sitting in a chair in floods of tears. All I could think was “Take it away from him”, “Don’t let this be real”. Joey was just three, an innocent kid. How could he have a tumour? When, on day four, a scan showed that the tumour hadn’t spread, it was our first moment of optimism. But we had such a long way to go with treatment and surgery.
By the time we got back to London, Nikki was heavily pregnant. I effectively stopped work to take Joey for his treatments and hospital appointments. Rightly or wrongly, I felt that if I started expressing everything going on in my mind, it would have a detrimental effect. I had to keep it together for Joey. But as time went on, I recognised I’d reached my limit and I turned to Chai. I felt quite fragile at first. If I broke down in the counselling process, I worried I might not be able to build back up again. But getting a whole load of stuff out of my system freed up more space for me to cope. I could say things without thinking. There was no judgement, the counsellor was only focused on the one thing going on in my life. That kind of support is important because you can’t share all your thoughts with family or friends.
Shira
is kind and funny. When she talks to me, I feel happy. I play with Lego and sand, and I make pictures. When we play ‘knights’, I have two shields and Shira always loses! The tropical fish at Chai are cool, especially the purple and the black and white stripey ones that look like zebras.
Two years on from Joey’s diagnosis: (from left) Michael, Ray, holding ‘Scooby’, Nikki, Joey and Linda
Chai helped me massively: to process what happened, to step back and view life differently. So now, a disaster at work is no longer the end of the world. The counselling, play therapy and other treatments have been incredible. Before Joey got ill, I might see him for a goodnight kiss during the week. Spending so much time with him has given me a relationship with him I would never have had.
Joey is better now and that’s all that we ever wanted. Yet, I’m not quite ready to let go of what happened. Every time there’s a check-up, feelings return but I know that Chai is always there for me. When we go to GOSH now, he knows he has his ‘pictures’ taken but then we go and have fun for the day.
Seeing Joey motionless in hospital made no sense. He was such a lively boy. We let family know we were staying on in France to be with Nikki and Ray and in a way, being away from the UK simplified things. Our bubble gave us a strength that might have been more complicated to manage at home.
The flipside of being in a tight group was that there was no release. I can compartmentalise my feelings but when it’s a grandchild… that’s way more difficult. I wasn’t sure about having counselling because I’m not very good at that sort of thing but coming to Chai certainly gave me an outlet. And when I felt I no longer needed it, there was no pressure to continue.
We see Joey recovered and the nightmare is fading. The experience leaves its scars and every three months, when he goes for his check-up, we are nervous wrecks. But we are so grateful Joey is one of the lucky ones: that it was curable, that we had each other – and that we had Chai.
‘Chai helped me massively: to process what happened, to step back and view life differently’
‘ When Shira talks to me, I feel happy’
on his 300-kilometre trek across Lapland. The seasoned adventurer shares his diary and the personal reasons he took on this challenge
‘The night before I set off for Lapland, I tell my wife Nicole there is no phone signal where I am going. She’s not pleased, nor is she sympathetic about my choice of challenge. “You get cold with the heating on, how will you survive in minus 20 degrees?” It’s true – and I’m nervous of what’s to come: heading 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle, camping in the snow and travelling by sled in freezing temperatures.
At 19 I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Suddenly I could barely move, I was in so much pain. With recovery time in hospital, I promised myself I wouldn’t get to 80 without being able to look back on some adventures. And so the challenge-a-year-for-charity idea took shape. I’ve jumped out of a plane, climbed a frozen waterfall in Utah and even swam from Alcatraz Island to the San Francisco shoreline where a great white shark had recently killed a sea lion in the waters.
My grandma, Daniele, was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2017. Though it is not curable, it is treatable, and Chai is there to support her and our family. When I tell her my Lapland challenge is for the charity, she bursts into tears. She loves Chai because it was so valuable to her best friend Jennifer Aaron, who sadly passed away. She also tells me I am mad and asks why I can’t do something more “normal”.
I’ve trained for four months, boxing, climbing, and running to build up my mental and physical stamina. On departure day, in the shower I think about this little luxury, which I won’t have for a while. Before I get into the taxi to the airport, I hug Enzo, my golden retriever and I wonder what the relationship with the huskies will be like. I kiss Nicole goodbye, seeing both optimism and fear in her eyes.
It’s a 20-hour journey via Stockholm to Kiruna inside Swedish Lapland. The airport is tiny and our guides Ozzy and Irvin are on the runway to greet us. I meet the others on this challenge: Matt, Gordon, Dave, Francesca – all of us raising money for noble causes.
At breakfast we are briefed on the coming week: sleeping on a frozen river, ice fishing and lots of sledding. We meet the dogs, who are howling because they know they’re about to do the thing they love
most: run. We learn to harness them and how to operate the sled. The command to start is ‘Yup!’ Ahead, a 30km practice run.
I navigate the sled forward, the pack pulling excitedly as I hold down on the brake to keep them in line. “Go!”… “Start!”… “Run!”… What was the word? I try “Yallah!” and the huskies jolt the sled into action. ‘They speak Hebrew!’ I laugh. The guides look disappointed that I have already forgotten this basic command.
The dogs eat an unattractive, high-protein soupy gloop (and eat snow, in place of water). I’ve given them nicknames to help the bonding process: Casablanca, a beautiful black and white female; Seth Rogen who’s a bit loopy, and Armpit, a female who loves nestling into me. I sneak them extra rations of cheese on the basis that, like a Jewish mother, I can win their love with food. Armpit’s tail wags excitedly. It works.
Irvin says my bag is too big to take with us and I must discard most of its contents. I have now just one set of clothes for the next six days. We set off through highland forests on a clear, sunny day and we are flying on the snow, passing stunning winter landscapes. It takes six hours to do 50km. We finally stop for the day at the bottom of River Rautus.
Camping on a frozen river is surreal. The snow on the riverbank is waist high so you can’t walk round it. I begin setting up my summerweight tent, wearing three pairs of gloves. It proves impossible. When I take them off, my fingers are turning blue.
With the tent finally up, my focus is dinner. So much for fishing, tonight it’s pasta from a packet. Then there’s the toilet situation: all I’ll say is that it’s certainly the most scenic place to ‘use the facilities’! The Northern Lights dancing across the sky are something I could never have conjured in my mind.
Trying to sleep is another challenge. I shiver in my sleeping bag. I’m still wearing my thick coat and gear from the day. Such a perfect day… and then
In April in Lapland, the temperature frequently dropped to minus 20
When I wake, one of my contact lenses is frozen to my eyes. Luckily a spare pair wrapped in four pairs of socks has survived the night. Today we have sparkling sunshine for a 60km sled following the river’s edge. In a break, I sip on 18-year-old GlenAllachie whisky, A moment of confusion for the dogs when I begin to sing
Reindeer skins are an essential for keepingwarm on the sled and camping overnight
I bonded with a husky I nicknamed Armpit –because she likes cuddles
A beautiful but snow-bound camping spot en route. Opposite: hopes of fishing for dinner started optimistically…
and the liquid gives me warmth and courage. I play the dogs music from my iPhone: Frank Sinatra and Bob Dylan. They particularly like Fly Me To The Moon and look back at me strangely as I join in with their howling. They are true athletes: some have taken part in the Iditarod, the equivalent of the Champions League final of dog sledding.
When we set up camp, Ozzy hands out one-meter drills for us to make a hole into the water – tonight we fish for our dinner! We hook bait on to what looks like a children’s toy fishing rod, and eight of us stand, and wait, shivering for hours, for a bite. Do we catch anything other than a chill? Not even a nibble. Dinner, finally, is a packet of mushroom risotto. I wonder vaguely what the dogs’ food tastes like.
Ozzy checks the forecast for tomorrow. A blizzard… this is serious. And on cue, we are blown awake by its arrival. Our tents feel as though they can take off like kites and we are told to pack up - fast. Visibility is zero and I feel uneasy about the day. The dogs’ mood is serious, too. Their mission is to get us to the next campsite 50km away, near the border with Norway. So severe is the blizzard, we run alongside them because they can’t push through the deepening drifts of snow. If there is a parallel to be drawn between taking on a challenge and cancer, I think it’s that every day is different, and you don’t know what will confront you.
Today tests me more than I can imagine. I add a strong female called Shakira to my pack. Casablanca is not happy and within seconds has bitten into Shakira’s ear. I eventually haul Casablanca away and yell at them both: “It’s hard enough today – I need you to work together!” They look at each other and then me as if they understand what I have said. After that, there is no more trouble. Truly they are pack animals – intelligent ones at that.
It is minus 15. Despite three pairs of gloves and four pairs of socks, my fingers and toes are frozen. I can’t see anyone ahead of me and for the first time I feel alone and disorientated. I squat, holding on to the sled with my elbows for what feels like an eternity. When we finally arrive at camp, all I can do is crawl inside the main tent. Irvin takes off my shoes and gloves to reveal my fingers have started to turn blue and one of my toes is nearly black – the early stages of frostbite. He pours water heated over a fire into a bowl and tells me to dip my fingers in. I wonder how much more of this I can do. No dinner tonight. I crash, fully clothed, wrapped in as many layers as I have.
The dogs are in their element when running and take part in major competitions
The dogs struggled through snow driftsalmost too deep to navigate
Fellow challenger, Gordon, after a day of blizzard conditions
I wake to the now familiar sound of huskies howling for breakfast. I unzip my tent and see a different universe. This morning is dazzling and enchanting. As I open my backpack to get a hat, an envelope falls out – a letter sneaked in by Nicole. I sit in the snow looking at the trees, reading her words of encouragement wishing me luck. It’s just the motivation I need to get going.
Fifty more kilometers today. I actually take layers off! It’s minus 12 but a gilet and jumper will do me. My body is sore, my shoulders are on fire and my legs feel like they’ve run three marathons, but I know whatever I’m experiencing, it’s temporary, compared to what my grandma has been through – for years now – with her cancer.
“Let’s do this, dream team!” I shout as we head off on the home stretch, and the dogs run with a new determination. I reach for my GoPro to film it and then stop. Don’t I want to feel this moment fully? Because it really doesn’t get any better than this.
Onwards for 45km before we halt to take in the sight of the biggest hill yet. I’m looking up at Everest. “The lodge is at the top of this hill,” Irvin yells. Forty-five minutes later, we arrive. There is one yurt, one cooking cabin, and a little red sleeping cabin. There’s no electricity and the bunk beds are broken… but I look up at the beautiful night sky flickering with green tints from the Northern Lights and I know I’ve really accomplished something. And I think about my grandmother and of all the people who go through cancer. The hard times they face daily make the temperature and my aching body feel meaningless. Raising more than £25,000 for Chai, however, does mean something, and I am proud of my achievement.
For the last time, I prepare the dogs and give them each a slice of Cheddar. Armpit seems to sense that today is different – and starts jumping up and giving me wet kisses on the face.
Sledding back, I accidentally drop into hip-high snow. Armpit takes charge, heaving the sled, me and the team up the steep terrain. We pull into the dog centre and a tear runs down my face. I sit between the pack hugging them. Armpit snuggles into me and it’s a long and difficult goodbye.
The night before our return, we all enjoy the luxury of the Ice Hotel in Kiruna. Phone signal! Heating, light, and the best shower of my life! I look at myself in the mirror and realise how fast facial hair grows. I call Nicole: there is so much to say but I can barely find the words. I tell her I love her, I miss her, and Enzo, and that I’ll be home tomorrow for Friday-night dinner. I call my dad and then speak to my grandmother. She has some news. “I just got back from the doctor. My cancer has shrunk, he’s thrilled with the progress!” To receive such news on my last evening… I don’t think I have ever been happier than in that moment.’
Main picture: Preparing to fish for dinner. Inset: With my grandma, Daniele, who inspired me to take on this challenge
‘
Whatever I’m experiencing, it’s temporary, compared to what my grandma has been through – for years now – with her cancer’
There are over a hundred different types of sarcoma. They can occur in the soft tissues as well as in the bone, can affect people of all ages, and appear in any part of the body. Despite this, sarcomas are rare, making up just about 1% of all cancers. Recent figures record approximately 3,500 new cases of soft tissue sarcoma and 500 cases of bone sarcoma diagnosed annually in England.
Frustratingly we cannot identify the causes of sarcoma for most patients, as the biology is still not very well understood. What we do know is that it’s generally not related to lifestyle factors. A small percentage are caused by a genetic predisposition and inherited conditions, and it can also arise as a result of exposure to radiotherapy, but these are extremely rare.
Where do sarcomas start?
Sarcomas commonly begin in the arms and legs, but they can also start in the trunk, head and neck, stomach, abdomen and pelvis. However, as these cancers are rare and have so many types, they can be difficult to diagnose. Unfortunately, that means many patients experience delays so it is vital that people with symptoms contact their GP and are seen face-to-face for a physical examination as soon as possible.
In soft tissue sarcomas, there is most usually a lump, which can be painless but nevertheless is changing or growing. Any lump bigger than a golf ball should be investigated. Sickness, stomach pains, loss of appetite or feeling full are symptoms from a common form that starts in the stomach called gastro-intestinal stromal tumour (GIST).
In bone sarcomas, pain in or around a bone is the most common symptom. The pain may be constant or come and go, but it worsens with time and painkillers become ineffective. The pain can also increase at night. Other symptoms include a lump or swelling, with tenderness over the bone, stiff joints, reduced movement or a limp.
Two of the most common types of bone sarcomas, osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma, mainly affect teenagers and young people and these can often be misdiagnosed as a sporting injury or even growing pains. If your teen complains of these symptoms, get them investigated as quickly as possible to narrow down the cause.
The puzzling symptoms of this rare cancer mean it can be hard to diagnose. Leading sarcoma
specialist Dr Sandra Strauss describes the signs and treatments
The nature of sarcomas mean they require specialist care, so any patient with a suspected case must be referred to a specialist diagnostic sarcoma centre. Five centres for bone sarcomas in England cover London (through the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital and UCLH), Greater Manchester, Birmingham, Oxford and Newcastle. Thirteen more centres specialise in soft tissue sarcomas while Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland also have dedicated facilities devoted to both types.
Once diagnosed, patients are assigned a specialist sarcoma multi-disciplinary team (MDT) to consider the most appropriate approach for treatment, with patient involvement fundamental to that process. Surgery to remove the tumour is always the preferred option. Radiotherapy is also used to treat aggressive soft tissue sarcomas or those measuring more than 5cm, to help reduce the chance of the cancer coming back.
The treatment for patients with osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcomas is complex, involving multi-drug chemotherapy over a period of around nine months, as well as surgery and/or radiotherapy. It can be a tough journey with many hospital stays, and the familiar side effects of sickness, tiredness, infections, sore mouth, and hair loss. Surgery to remove the affected bone (and more rarely amputation) may be the only life-saving but also life-changing option, with potentially great impact on young people.
One can’t underestimate the physical, mental and psychological outcome of treatment on a youngster’s physical function, education and plans for the future. Specialist Teenage and Young Adult hubs, set up by the Teenage Cancer Trust (TCT) are in place in major cancer centres across the country, designed to help young people facing cancer feel supported, where they can access dedicated medical, nursing, physiotherapy, and youth support teams in a more relaxed setting (https://tinyurl. com/355t3p58). Outside of hospital, Chai’s teenagefocused services provide counselling, physiotherapy, music, art and other complementary therapies, which can make a big difference in the short and longer term, to help patients adjust to their new circumstances.
Survival rates depend on the type of sarcoma. Although there have been improvements over recent decades, it is a challenging area of research, with many different types of sarcoma and few new therapies available. Sadly, due to its rarity, it also attracts less money dedicated to research.
There is good news however. Exciting collaborations across the country and in Europe are bearing fruit. For example, the Euro Ewing Consortium set up in 2013 to improve outcomes for patients with Ewing sarcoma recently were able to define the best treatment for newly diagnosed patients as as well as for those where the disease has recurred. The consortium is also looking at genetic biomarkers and new types of chemotherapy.
For osteosarcoma, the Bone Cancer Research Trust has funded a national study, led by UCL. This has brought together clinicians, pathologists and scientists across the country to improve outcomes by identifying new treatments through a better understanding of the biology and impact of treatment on patients with this diagnosis. It is recruiting all patients with newly diagnosed osteosarcoma and is open in 23 centres across the UK. In all developments, the patient’s voice and priorities are embedded in the process of developing new treatments.
I believe that this collaborative approach is our best route to improving the survival rates for people diagnosed with this perplexing cancer and the best way to improve their quality of life.
MBBS FRCP PhD is a Senior Clinical Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Medical Oncologist. Based at University College London Hospital, part of the London Sarcoma Service, she specialises in the systemic treatment of bone and soft tissue sarcomas, and researches novel therapeutics in sarcomas across all ages.
She is the principal investigator for a number of sarcoma studies and the Clinical lead for Sarcoma and rare cancers for Public Health England. She is particularly concerned with variations in patient pathways and access to specialist services to reduce inequalities and improve outcomes.
‘Two of the most common sarcomas mainly affect young people and can often be misdiagnosed as growing pains’
The former England captain Sir Andrew Strauss OBE was on fine form at the launch of a new joint initiative
T here was an abundance of cricketing action during the summer with England playing Test, one-day international and T20 matches. In July, one of the game’s stellar figures, Sir Andrew Strauss, entertained 100 devotees of the game over a buffet breakfast. Serving up the questions was restaurant critic, TV presenter and self-confessed Strauss ‘fan-boy’ Giles Coren who has followed the player’s career since his scintilating ‘Superman’ catch against Australia in 2005.
The event, which drew a keen, early-bird crowd, was in aid of Chai and the Ruth Strauss Foundation. Generously sponsored by law firm BDB Pitmans, it was the brainchild of communications expert and
cricketing author, Zaki Cooper and marked the start of a relationship aimed at sharing best practice and knowledge between the organisations.
One of only three England captains to win the Ashes both at home and away, Sir Andrew shared his thoughts on the rollercoaster pressures of the game, the ‘inferiority complex’ that holds our native team back, how good leadership sustains a winning mindset and his belief in taking risks: ‘Sometimes you need to do things unconventionally.’
In front of a knowledgeable audience, Sir Andrew and Giles made a dynamic double-act with the
Sir Andrew and Giles Coren formed a perfect partnership for the captivated audience
Photography: Blake Ezra
Cancer Care
latter drawing out the cricketing legend on his first time as opening batsman in a Test at Lords: ‘It was a moment of truth. I felt excitement rather than nerves. It’s a huge personal barrier to get over and prove to yourself that you belong at that level.’ Sir Andrew went on to become Director of England Cricket until 2018 and though he’s left the field of play, he continues as a consultant for the game, helping to see England to victory in the first white-ball World Cup in 2019. His ambition? ‘To see England be the number one team in the world in all formats.’
One way to achieve that, he says, is through the grass roots. ‘We rely on it hugely and need the skills that allow you to prosper in county cricket, to allow you to prosper in test cricket.’ He’s hugely optimistic about the growing support for women’s cricket, too. ‘It’s a massive success story. A while ago it was an oddity. Now, girls are playing it at school.’
Sir Andrew admitted to missing life at the crease with team members such as Marcus Trescothick and iconic opponents, including the late Shane Warne. ‘The team becomes your surrogate family and then suddenly, when you’re dropped or retire, they’re gone. It’s a lot to work your way through, almost like a mini death, certainly of your identity.’
The choice of words is poignant. In 2018, Strauss’ wife Ruth died from non-smoking lung cancer just a few months after her diagnosis in 2017. Strauss spoke of the ‘shock and horror’ of her terminal diagnosis and the enormity of confronting her death, with his sons [Sam and Luca, now 16 and 14]. While Sir Andrew’s reaction was to ‘concentrate on living’, Ruth’s was to arrange for the family to see a grief counsellor. ‘She helped us have the conversations we needed with the boys.’
In 2019 Andrew established the foundation that now bears his late wife’s name, aimed at supporting parents affected by losing a partner and their bereaved children. ‘It’s about holding people’s hands while they prepare for the death of a parent or partner, allowing you to be proactive, talk about it, involve the kids, not shield them. If you get pre-death right, it makes everything post-death, more manageable.’
The territory is all too familiar to Chai, whose expertise leads the way in supporting patients and their loved ones through the impact of a cancer diagnosis. ‘There
is significant synergy and many shared aims between our organisations,’ said Louise Hager in her welcome speech. ‘Both were established in response to the personal, painful experiences of living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis and both were founded to fill an unmet need.’
The event drew to a close with Giles umpiring a lively Q&A with Sir Andrew, and the auction of a mini cricket bat signed by the man himself. A warm vote of thanks came from Sir Victor Blank who acknowledged the achievements, ambitions and importance of both organisations.
Batting for Chai and the Ruth Strauss Foundation. From left: Giles Coren, Lisa Steele, Sir Andrew Strauss, Louise Hager, Sir Victor Blank
It’s five years since Chai’s regional hub based at The Fed in Prestwich, North Manchester opened its expanded centre to the community. Over that time, the number of clients benefitting from this beautiful purpose-built resource has continued to rise.
‘We were quiet in the centre because of lockdowns,’ says Gerry Singer, northwest regional manager. ‘Restrictions went on longer in this part of the country, so Chai was busier with remote support for clients. There was some initial nervousness around coming back into the centre once we re-opened but we have maintained safety protocols so people can feel confident in the building.’
To meet the extra need for services, in addition to an existing BRCA Support Group, Bereavement and Women’s Support Groups were introduced in May and a new art group began in August. A further group for carers is in the pipeline. ‘Clients were so excited to have human contact again. After so much isolation, it’s been very special to welcome them back into this lovely environment.’
Chai northwest covers North and South Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool. There are clients further afield, too, in Newcastle, Gateshead and Sheffield. In smaller communities which are nevertheless spread out, nuanced differences exist in how services are delivered compared to London. ‘People may worry that others will know their business or they’re friends with the counsellor or therapist,’ explains Gerry. ‘Confidentiality is at the heart of our services but if a client, for instance, is in Leeds, and does not want to be seen by a counsellor from the same area, we have the flexibility to accommodate this. Ensuring people trust how we operate is vital in encouraging them to come forward.’ Gerry is also keen to highlight there is no charge for any of Chai’s services.
Chai’s success in reaching out can be seen in the services it provides to clients that come from across the whole community. Enquiries for support in schools, including those in the Charedi community, are more frequent, too.
Chai is now woven into the fabric of the community in the northwest, drawing support from across the region for events such as the Week for Chai fundraiser, social and sponsored events, which do so much to further raise local awareness.
Geoff Charing, 73 is having counselling and has been part of the bereavement group following the death of his wife Jo who was also a client.
‘I was slightly anxious before I went to Chai but they put you at your ease even in the most difficult of circumstances. To hear from people in similar situations, to give and receive solutions, to talk through issues that had been worrying me and hear a neutral viewpoint from someone who can understand, has been such a help. Jo and I also had massage treatments which greatly relieved the stress we were under. I always left Chai with a better mindset than when I had arrived.’
This campaign aims to raise awareness of the breadth of our services across the region and the many ways we support clients who turn to usLeeds Liverpool North Manchester South Manchester My Chai in Liverpool
Sharna Saunders, 40, lost her husband, Mark in May 2020.
‘My journey with Chai began in late 2017 when my husband and I both came for counselling and various therapy treatments. My son Josh who is now six, has been coming for weekly play therapy sessions with Louise since October 2020. Chai is an amazing place – that I hope no one ever needs to use. But thank goodness it exists. There is no charge, and it has been a huge lifeline for me and my son. Every day is difficult, but Chai makes it a little bit easier.’
Stanley Glucksman, 73 was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer and secondaries in 2018. He and his wife Rhona 68 have reflexology, reiki and counselling. Stanley also has dietary advice.
‘Following my diagnosis, the counselling has helped both Rhona and myself emotionally and the therapies have made us feel more relaxed. Without Chai we would not have been able to prepare for all the challenges ahead.’
Laura Ben Mayor learned she has the BRCA gene and has been supported by counselling and complementary therapies
‘I was struggling to come to terms with my BRCA diagnosis. Counselling made a huge difference to me. To speak to someone who wasn’t a friend or family member was so important as I made decisions about what to do moving forward. The reiki was amazing, too, helping me to stay grounded and to ease the pain I had after my mastectomy. Chai has been a massive support to me and my family.’
Chana Orshansky 31 and husband Raphael, 35 and their children are receiving a range of services because of Raphael’s brain cancer condition. This includes complementary therapies, counselling, physiotherapy and play therapy.
‘Chai has been an incredible support to our whole family. They are always there for us, and we have all benefitted from their services. The reflexology, physiotherapy and counselling has been amazing and we so appreciate the play therapist who goes into school and looks out for the children, helping them navigate the different emotions that come with this illness. Everyone we encounter is kind and warm and always professional.’
Daniel Jackson, 42 came to Chai when his dad David was diagnosed with cancer. David passed away last year, and Daniel has had counselling and was in a bereavement group.
Group counselling and listening to others showed me I am more resourceful than I realise. When someone you love is going to die, the grief sets in immediately, but the emotions are not linear. Talking to a counsellor helped me understand that complexity without trying to solve it and prepared me to support myself and my family. Chai’s unconditional support and kindness helped bring light into my grief. I will forever be grateful for their support.’
Our ‘My Chai’ campaign aims to increase awarness of Chai’s support in the northwest
It takes two-way commitment to make a relationship flourish and last November thousands of you showed your loyalty and devotion to the community’s dedicated cancer support organisation during our One BIG Community for Chai campaign
It was an action-packed four days. From 26-29 November, in schools and on university campuses, in synagogues across the spectrum, in supermarkets and on high streets, Chai volunteers and staff, together with our incredible team hosts and matched funders, galvanized nearly ten thousand of you to donate, raising a phenomenal £2.7m.
In videos on social media and the Chai website, important messages were shared, viewed and shared again showing how Chai’s services support people affected by a cancer diagnosis. Clients and medical professionals spoke from personal experience about Chai as a vital resource that helps ease the emotional and physical impact of cancer. ‘Chai’s mission is to bring light into the dark following a cancer diagnosis,’ said Chairman Louise Hager, ‘not just for the patient but for those surrounding them.’
CEO Lisa Steele and Chair of Chai’s Medical Advisory Panel, Adrian Tookman talked about the stark consequences of the pandemic, which pushed cancer screenings, treatments and surgeries to the back of the care queue. ‘We’re seeing more clients, many are younger and many have complex needs,’ said Lisa ‘The £3.5m that it costs to keep Chai going, will only go up.’
Throughout the online fundraising campaign, clients posted moving messages of thanks and encouragement, spurring people to keep on giving. And you did! Original targets were broken twice over, as £1.8m became £2.5m – and that was beaten, too. As donations hit £2.7m and new clients got in touch to access our services for the first time, we recognised the unbreakable bond of support and care we have from the whole community. Just as Chai is here for you, we are so grateful that you are here for Chai.
Richard and Alissa Freedman shared their story of how Richards’s relatively ‘good’ leukaemia turned into something far more critical, necessitating a bone marrow transplant. With lockdown and Alissa giving birth at 29 weeks, Chai’s support, ‘which we never expected to ever need,’ became crucial. ‘Chai was right there from the beginning, and, as we came out the other side, helped us make sense of it all. Because of their support, it didn’t feel so lonely,’ said Richard.
Never heard of a ‘Challah Dough Disco’? This fundraising event included plenty of rhythmic kneading to a backdrop of Mizrachi beats by DJ Mesiba. ‘Challah Mummy’ Allegra Benitah threw some dazzling challah shapes to inspire the crowd during the evening organised by Micaela Chetrit to mark the fifth yahrzeit of her beloved mother Gillian Pearlman z’l. If you weren’t there, you missed out – the spontaneous rolling-pin conga while the dough was proving was quite something to see!
For more information, contact Rachael Martin on rachaelmartin@chaicancercare.org or call 020 8457 2077.
Juliette Lipshaw, Headteacher of Sinai Primary School in Kenton went in front of camera to explain the positive difference ‘Chai in Schools’ has made to pupils and staff in her school. ‘A teacher is often the first person outside the family, to hear the news of a cancer diagnosis,’ said Juliette. Chai counsellors see children in school and also support teachers with advice on how to respond appropriately to the child’s needs as well as those of their classmates.
The annual ‘Mad Hair Day’ takeover saw pupils from 17 schools across the country create madcap and marvellous hairdos to raise money for the ‘Chai in Schools’ programme, which brings music, art and play therapy into schools to support children affected by a cancer diagnosis.
More than 130 synagogues and communities from all denominations took part in a special Chai Shabbat. Rabbis took the opportunity to speak about the work of Chai in their sermons and among many events, were a purple-themed kiddush (complete with purple cupcakes), and a Havdalah ceremony with purple glow sticks.
They said it all Clients, doctors, surgeons, headteachers, children, and Chai’s CEO Lisa Steele, contributed to films about Chai as an important link in the chain of supportive cancer care for patients and their loved ones.
Amy Howard, a 36-year-old mother of three boys, received the shocking diagnosis that she has stage 4 breast cancer, which had already spread. In her emotive film she related the agonising prospect of not being there to see her boys grow up. ‘I realised I needed help with telling the children what was going on, so my first meeting at Chai was with a play therapist.’ Chai has helped Amy feel there are still positive moments to enjoy. ‘Every chemotherapy treatment was scary and painful, but Chai reminds me that treatments can be positive, too: one of the best for me is hypnotherapy. I now have a different outlook, and to have Chai to help me and my family is amazing.’
On Sunday 28 November, as the online fundraising drive took off, volunteers headed out to the streets and into shops to spread the word about Chai. Despite sub-zero temperatures and icy conditions, young volunteers from Project ImpACT, among others, took up positions to greet passers-by (and shake a collection bucket or two) at Tesco, Brent Cross. More volunteers, staff, friends and families kitted out in purple Chai hoodies raised smiles and donations at Kosher Kingdom in London and Brackman’s in Manchester.
Following numerous requests from parents, we are holding a series of workshops in November to help them understand how best to support their children when a school friend is affected by a cancer diagnosis. For more information, please contact Caroline Tunkel at carolinetunkel@chaicancercare.org
To see any of the films mentioned from our campaign, visit www.charityextra.com/onebigcommunity
‘I
’m a 59-year-old single dad, living in Watford with my two teenage children. I write and direct (and sometimes perform) comedy, and if you told me I was going to get breast cancer, I would have thought it was a joke… It is rare: of more than 55,000 breast cancer diagnoses each year, only one in 150 are men. Which struck home when I chatted with my cancer nurse after receiving the news. She had worked in breast cancer screening for seven years and I was only the third man she’d had “the talk” with.
I discovered the lump because I sleep on my front and, like in the Princess and the Pea fairy-tale, I felt I was sleeping on something Yet when I checked the mattress, I couldn’t find anything… still I could definitely feel something there. And that’s when I realised. The lump was in me.
So, I did what any normal man does… I tried to ignore it.
The thing was that even in the space of three weeks, I could feel it was getting bigger. I also knew that breast cancer runs in my family. Both my gran and a cousin had it, so I thought it was worth getting checked out… just in case.
As soon as my GP examined me, she made the referral to St Albans City Hospital Breast Clinic where I was seen five days later. I had an ultrasound, they took a sample of the lump and the consultant said, even before the results came back, ‘suspected breast cancer’. A week later it was confirmed. Stage 2, quite aggressive… it needed to come out quickly.
For me, stepping into the breast clinic for the first time to be checked was difficult. I was the only man there and I didn’t feel I belonged. My breasts are not an important life-giving part of my body like they are for women, nor are they part of my identity, so having one removed was not such a big deal, but my heart went out to the women sitting there in that waiting room with me. No one would really notice if I lost a breast so long as we got the cancer out.
On December 15, 2021, I was in surgery having the lump – and my left breast – removed. In the seven weeks between me finding the lump, and the operation, it had more than doubled in size. Several months on, and with all the tests and checks they do after surgery, I know I am lucky. The lump was removed along with all the cancerous cells. My lymph nodes were clear; I didn’t need chemotherapy. I did have the genetic screening, however, to check if the cancer was due to a DNA abnormality, which would have had implications for my children, my siblings, and their children. But it wasn’t the case and I have been told if I take my medication, there is only a 3% chance that the cancer will return in the next nine years. Physically, that’s probably the best result I could have expected.
Emotionally though, I am not so sure. Everything happened so fast, I couldn’t process what “getting cancer” meant to me. As a single dad I was more focused on what might happen to my kids if treatment didn’t go well. And many men aren’t comfortable talking about their feelings.
That’s where Chai has been so essential. Having regular sessions with one of the counsellors is helping me get back on track, and working with a personal trainer in the Chai gym has helped me to build up my stamina. To help restore my wellbeing in other ways, I have had some reiki and reflexology sessions.
Walking into Chai feels like walking into an oasis of calm and tranquility, and I am extremely grateful for the support they have been giving me.
So, men… check your boobs (and other bits), and if you feel something a little odd, don’t dismiss it, get it checked. Had I ignored my lump, well… I would be telling a very different story.’
‘If it wasn’t for a “Princess and the Pea” moment,’ writes Neil Ben, ‘I’d probably still be blissfully unaware that a cancerous tumour was growing in my left breast’
‘Icouldn’tprocesswhat“getting cancer” meant… that‘s where Chai has been so essential’
Male breast cancer is often diagnosed at a more advanced stage than female cancers, probably because men don’t think that a change on the chest wall or around the nipple could represent a breast cancer.
Treatment is more successful and often less aggressive if diagnosed early and the investigations and treatments are similar to those for women. At the breast clinic, an ultrasound of the chest wall is carried out. A biopsy, usually under local anesthetic, mammogram, CT/bone or PET scans may also form part of the diagnosis.
This is determined by many factors such as the grade and size of the tumour, the involvement of the skin or chest wall, local or distant lymph nodes, and other organs. Sensitivity to certain treatments and genetics play a part in how chemotherapy and other targeted therapies are administered. Surgery may mean a mastectomy, removing the – nippleareolar complex and underlying breast tissue plus axillary surgery to the lymph nodes in the arm pit. Radiotherapy may also be required. After treatment finishes, there are options for reconstructive surgery and/or nipple tattooing.
An annual clinical and imaging assessment and possible hormone treatment, such as Tamoxifen, for five to 10 years.
Changes to the nipple: inversion, retraction or discharge (maybe with blood)
Rashes on or around the nipple; a non-healing ulcer
A change in the shape or contour of the chest wall
Swelling or a lump in the axilla – under the shoulder joint where the arm and shoulder connect
A lump close to the –nipple-areolar complex or on the chest wall. It’s usually painless
Family members who are BRCA2 or less commonly BRCA1 mutation carriers
For individuals, couples and families including psychosexual support.
With the approval of the client’s consultant, treatments such as reflexology, reiki and gym sessions can offer symptom management and improved fitness.
Our Men’s Support Group offers a safe space to share experiences with others who understand the many challenges following a cancer diagnosis.
What men – and women – need to check for
Most diagnoses occur in men aged 55-70 years
Excess exposure to oestrogen
BRCA genes exist in all of us and are there to inhibit cancer developing. Within the Jewish community, however, certain faulty or mutated versions of the BRCA1 and 2 genes mean men and women are more likely to develop BRCA-related cancers, namely breast (female and male), ovarian, prostate, pancreatic and melanoma.
In the wider population, about one in 200 to 300 people are carriers of faulty BRCA genes. In the Ashkenazi community it’s one in 40, and cancer-causing BRCA genes also exist in Sephardi/Mizrachi communities. BRCA-related ovarian cancer in the non-Jewish population is 1 in 7-10; in the Jewish population it’s 1 in 3. Similarly, BRCA-related breast cancer is 1 in 25-30 versus 1 in 10.
Currently only people with a familial history of particular cancers are eligible for genetic testing under the NHS. However, in 2023 NHS England is piloting a scheme testing for BRCA gene mutations for anyone with at least one Jewish grandparent. ‘Chai is encouraged to see testing for the whole Jewish community being made available,’ says CEO Lisa Steele. ‘Any development that can save lives is welcomed.’
Awareness about BRCA is vital because the issues it raises can be complex, far-reaching and life changing. If you are a carrier, what does that do to your life plans? Holding that knowledge is a responsibility. Who do you tell in your family, and how? What are the implications for fertility? What can you do about the elevated risk? Will you pass on the faulty gene to the next generation? The questions and dilemmas can be overwhelming.
Chai offers a safe place to discuss BRCA issues with support from counsellors who have received specialist training from the Royal Marsden and Northwick Park hospitals’ genetic teams. ‘We see individuals and couples prior to and after being genetically tested, and provide group and peer support for BRCA carriers,’ explains Lisa Steele. As men can also carry the faulty BRCA gene, there
The BRCA2 gene mutation is implicated in breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancers
is a mixed and women-only group. ‘Knowing you are not alone is so important because the impact of a positive result can feel isolating,’ she says. ‘It’s a deeply personal subject and members of one family faced with the same risks may make different decisions.’
There has always been a referral system between Chai, Jnetics –the community hub providing information and advice about genetic conditions – and Chana, which focuses on male and female fertility issues. Dr Veronique Berman, director of Chana, says, ‘There are many choices to consider, including preserving fertility ahead of medical or surgical options, through to supporting couples choosing to do pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) treatments to avoid the next generation being carriers of the BRCA gene.’
Since the NHS announcement, enquiries to Jnetics about BRCA are up by 25%. CEO, Nicole Gordon says, ‘We can explain the risks of being a BRCA carrier and guide clients through the genetic testing process. Our aim is to improve access to the best available information by signposting people to organisations such as Chai and Chana.’
Dr Ian Ellis, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Genetics at the University of Liverpool and a member of Chai’s Medical Advisory Panel, says, ‘Testing positive for the BRCA gene does not mean a person will get cancer but there is a higher chance: risk-reducing options for a woman may include the removal of the ovaries and/or fallopian tubes and/or a single or double mastectomy. The decision does not necessarily need to be immediate, and some women will adopt a ‘watch and wait’ approach, monitoring via scans and/or mammograms for early signs of breast cancer.’
Working together, each organisation can reach all parts of the community and provide the wraparound support people need to make the best BRCA choices for their situation.
He has served the public in numerous ways: in government, industry and through many charities. Entering his 10th decade, Baron Young of Graffham and President of Chai takes time out to look back
L
ord Young of Graffham cuts a sharp silhouette in top-to-toe navy as he springs forward to greet me in his spacious Regent’s Park office. That he’s at his desk in the year he turns 90, gives an idea of the energy he possesses. He joins other notable, influential nonagenarians, including Lord Attenborough and the Queen whose long-distance perspectives on the world are highly prized.
‘I hate to be too reflective,’ says David, as he insists on being called, ‘but it’s difficult not to be, given the many different things that I’ve been able to do in my life.’ The boy born in 1932 in Clapton to Betty and Joe Young, and Bar Mitzvah-ed in the ‘old Kinloss’ shul in Finchley has, indeed, achieved much.
His career led him briefly into law, on to Great Universal Stores in the mid-50s, where he was Sir Isaac Wolfson’s PA,
then to running property and construction companies. Later he would become Chairman of Cable & Wireless and President of the Institute of Directors. ‘I was such a busybody, a Jack-of-all-trades. I planned absolutely nothing, but I always saw opportunity. Sometimes it worked out, sometimes it didn’t,’ he acknowledges.
Back in the 60s, like many people in their younger days, Young was left leaning and voted Labour. A decade later he would begin to serve Margaret Thatcher in successive Conservative governments as Chair of the Manpower Services Commission, and as Secretary for Trade and Industry, and Employment. It was during Labour’s strike-bound ‘winter of discontent’ in 1979 that Keith Joseph, one of Thatcher’s most trusted ministers, coaxed Young into political life from his chairman’s seat at an international bank. Young joined the Civil Service for two years, as an unpaid volunteer at the Department of Industry. The role was seven grades lower than that of Cabinet Secretary and several floors below his boss.
Lita was 18 and David 23 when they married in 1956. Young was enobled in 1984. Below, at his investiture with Prince Charles‘
I was entry level, developing privatisation policies and reporting to an assistant secretary. I saw Keith twice in six months.’ It sounds like it was a back-step, though that’s not how Young views it. ‘In that first year I found out how the civil service works. That you can’t simply tell people to do things, that you need to persuade them that what you’re doing is right and then they’ll do it. A year after joining, Keith reckoned I was “housetrained” and moved me to an office on the same floor.’
The motto Young chose for his baronetcy in 1984 is Soluvere Est Servire – to solve is to serve. It matches the man well and seems to embody a conversation with his father when he and his younger brother Stuart were setting out on their careers. ‘He said, “We’re only alive because this country has enabled us to do what we want. So do things outside of your career. Give back to your country and the community.” As well as there being a moral aspect to it, it makes life more rewarding,’ says Young. ‘I owe a large part of the good things in my life to listening to my father.’
Young gained a reputation, during the Thatcher years, for bringing solutions rather than problems, for easing out red tape, which was seen to hamper business enterprise, and for initiating training schemes to feed the emerging technology industries. He has a passion for tech, was the first person in the UK to own an Apple computer and he sports an Apple watch when we meet.
Political life was not without its hairy moments…when is it ever? There were rivalries with other ministers as he was seen to have the ear of the PM, and, when parachuted in to handle the 1987 election campaign with 10 weeks to go, he woke up in many a (Tory) ‘blue funk’ with nightmare visions of what could go wrong. His recollections of this ‘interesting and horrific’ time are told in his page-turning 2021 book, Inside Thatcher’s Last Election: Diaries of the Campaign That Saved Enterprise (Pub. Biteback).
Being invited by David Cameron into No10 as his Enterprise Adviser in 2010, at the age of 78, (he was 36 years older than the PM) provided him with five more years at the centre of British politics. ‘Where Thatcher had a belief system and Cameron was conscientious without direction,’ Lord Young is less impressed with the summer’s turbulent events and the effect of social media on politics.
Talking about him and Stuart (who became Chairman of the BBC) puts Young in a contemplative mood. He recalls how his father, an immigrant from Yurevich near Minsk, who arrived in the UK 1905, could lead the Seder from memory after losing his sight in later years. His wisdom included sending the siblings to different schools to avoid rivalry. ‘My father died in his sleep. I sat shiva for him. Three days later, I had Stuart’s levoyah.’ Both had cancer (as has Young himself) and it’s evident even 36 years on, the losses still hurt. He describes Stuart as ‘my closest friend.’
The charities that Young has given back to are numerous and include the Chichester Festival, The Coram Trust, the Jewish Museum in London, ORT, and Jewish Care. In 2006
David on holiday in Torquay in 1941, with mother Betty andbrother Stuart, whom he describes as ‘my closest friend’ David Young was one of Mrs Thatcher’s most reliable cabinet members. His recent book on her final election is a page-turnerhe became President of Chai. ‘Its values are the values of Judaism – tzedakah, helping people at a time of need. What could be harder than for a young family to lose a father or mother? Chai may not be able to change what happens ultimately, but it is there to restore and put individuals and families back together when they are in pieces. When it was established in 1990, nobody was doing that let alone understood the need for it.’
are woodland walks and a lake with a hut: ‘my favourite spot on earth’. Other projects seizing his attention are to do with organising family research. He blesses the day he sat down with his mother 30 years ago and ‘asked all the questions.’ The diary his father’s sister kept as they fled the pogroms reveals the hardship, familiar to many, that they endured on their journey to London’s East End, where everyone speaking Yiddish helped them settle in.
Lord Young is certainly not done yet and his opinions on the issues of the day, delivered in his mellow, burnished tones, are never less than clear-cut. ‘We need a second chamber, but the Lords is archaic. We should be elected, sit for 15-years, then out.’ On education: ‘It’s 19th century! We still have examinations. We need continuous testing.’ On Ukraine: ‘We lived a dream of peace, kidding ourselves it’s the natural condition. It must be fought for, though one hopes, not literally.’ He’s currently campaigning within government for more responsibility to be shouldered by social media platforms.
The gift Lord Young brought to Chai at a time of rapid expansion, was to highlight to new donors the centrality of its role for the whole community, giving them confidence to get behind it. Here was one of those opportunities where he saw a way to make a difference. ‘I also did it in my brother’s honour,’ he adds, once again hinting at the very personal motivations that drew him to Chai. ‘I’ve seen with my own eyes how every day, more and more people are supported by Chai’s knowledge and experience.’ Prominently displayed on the walls of the Hendon flagship centre, are photographs donated by Young of his trip to the startling white wilderness of the Antarctic and South Georgia. The images, collected in a book called ‘Degrees of Isolation’, somehow resonate with the emotions many people feel, going through a cancer experience.
By his side for 66 years has been Young’s wife, Lita. They met through a shidduch and were married when she was 18 and he, 23. She has been his stabilising constant through the turbulence of political life (and would pass her husband notes and marks out of 10 on his TV appearances). Their two daughters Karen and Judith have brought them naches in their six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Much of the Youngs’ time is spent at the home they bought 52 years ago near Chichester and he is currently on a re-wilding mission, planting 3500 trees on half of their 10-acre plot. There
There’s a fitting synergy between Lord Young’s Latin mantra and the ethos at the Jewish heart of Chai. To ‘solve’, to ‘serve’, to bring life to a community. Ninety or not, David Young is looking ahead. He would love to think the scientific advances made in the last five years will finally produce some sort of vaccine to inhibit cancers. ‘In the meantime,’ he concludes, ‘how fortunate we are to have Chai.’
‘Chai’s values are the values of Judaism – tzedakah, helping people at a time of need’Lord and Lady Young with daughters Karen (left) and Judith Speaking at a Chai fundraising dinner Lord Young highlighted the organisation’s central role in the community
cancers cover a wide range of different conditions, including various types of leukemia and lymphoma. Less well-known but still relatively common is myeloma, a condition which sees around 5,500 new cases diagnosed in the UK each year. Although it remains an incurable condition for most patients, new drugs developed over the last 20 years, have led to a dramatic improvement in patient health and survival rates.
As with all cancers, myeloma is caused by the uncontrolled growth of certain cells within a person’s body. In myeloma these are a type of blood cell called ‘plasma cells’, whose normal function is to produce antibodies (or immunoglobulins) that protect the body against infection. In myeloma, an increase of plasma cells in the bone marrow can cause anaemia due to crowding out of normal red blood cell production. They may also cause bone damage as clusters of myeloma cells spread to the skeleton. This can sometimes lead to fractures requiring surgery or bracing. The excess production of certain types of immunoglobulins by myeloma cells can also cause kidney damage. Because the impact may affect several organs, as well as the haematology team managing a patient’s care, other medical specialists may be called in, for example kidney physicians and orthopaedic surgeons.
Myeloma is not typically isolated to a single area which can be treated with surgery or radiotherapy. This contrasts with many ‘solid organ’ cancers that can be treated, and sometimes cured, if detected early enough. Myeloma treatment therefore is largely based on the use of chemotherapy. For many years, this was delivered in combination with steroids. While these still play an important role, drugs developed over the last 20 years have revolutionised myeloma management. Most critically for patients, newer drugs are generally less intensive than previous ones and are mostly given either as tablets from the outpatient
clinic, or as drips and injections in a day unit. In some cases, a bone marrow transplant will be the recommended treatment option and while this is much more intensive and requires a hospital stay, the results often extend the time patients are in remission and enjoy good health.
These changes have led to a dramatic improvement in survival in myeloma patients: in the 1970s only around one in 20 people diagnosed with myeloma survived their disease beyond 10 years – now it’s one in three. They have also had a transformative effect on the way we can discuss myeloma with patients and their families in the clinic. What was once a rapidly progressive disease can now be a chronic condition that, with careful monitoring and treatment, may be managed for many years with a good quality of life.
‘Clinical trials on CAR-T cell immunotherapy use the patient’s genetically modified cells to kill myeloma cells’
A new form of therapy currently undergoing clinical trials is CAR-T cell immunotherapy. This involves using genetically modified cells – usually from the patient, but possibly in the future from a donor – and targeting them specifically to kill myeloma cells. This is an exciting area of research which has already shown benefits in treating some leukemias and lymphomas. Although its routine use in myeloma is still some way off, it is likely to play an important role in the future.
Current research is focused on working out how we can personalise treatment for patients to avoid either undertreating people with high-risk myeloma, or over-treating those with a less aggressive type. There is a long way to go but already important strides have been made thanks to the detection of certain genetic features found in the myeloma cells at diagnosis, which allows a more precise riskassessment of patients. Another approach is the use of more sensitive ways of assessing a patient’s response to treatment using different laboratory tests, as well as PET and MRI scans. Significant progress has already been made in this area, and current clinical trials, both in the UK and internationally, are investigating how to improve things further.
An essential part of good cancer care is a holistic approach, to ensure that patients are supported not just in their physical needs, but also psychologically and socially. We routinely work alongside Clinical Nurse Specialists who provide invaluable expertise and support; national surveys of cancer patients have consistently emphasised the important role they play and how they are valued by patients and families. Organisations such as Macmillan Cancer Support give vital back-up, and we are fortunate within the Jewish community to have Chai Cancer Care which delivers its unique services around the country. Finally, Myeloma UK is a specialist charity that provides support and information to patients and families, as well as playing an active role in research and patient advocacy.
The diagnosis of any cancer can be devastating to receive. However, the trends over the last 20 years as well as the ongoing research really can provide clinicians, patients and their families with confidence that things will continue to improve.
Dr Jonathan Sive is a Consultant Haematologist and Clinical Lead for Myeloma at University College London Hospital. He is involved in several national myeloma trials, with a special interest in molecular detection methods, and quality of life assessment. He is an executive committee member and Education Lead for the UK Myeloma Forum, and a member of Chai’s Medical Advisory Panel.
After a three-year break, in mid-June, the scene was set for the dazzlingly colourful comeback of Chai Fashion with Averyl
There to celebrate and raise money for women’s services at Chai were 250 women, eager to capture the ‘in-real-life’ vibe that had been absent for so long. To the happiest of Latino and ABBA tracks, professional models, former Chai clients and volunteers danced down the runway, waving to friends in the audience, overjoyed to see each other again.
Brilliantly curated by Averyl Trup, the show featured autumn/winter looks from Valentino, Max Mara, Diane von Furstenburg, Luisa Cerano and many more. Subtle florals, oversized and retro graphic prints on shift and maxi dresses, weekend and city-smart ensembles (yes, they’re back!), ensured ‘must-haves’ for
In her welcome speech, Louise Hager acknowledged that being able to be face-to-face and embrace life’s normalities felt more special than ever. She explained how, far from being a superficial concern, self-image is fundamental for a woman experiencing the profound changes that occur to her body from cancer surgery or treatment.
diagnosis is an exceedingly difficult curve ball,’ she said. ‘Chai is a safe place, where no subject is taboo.’ She highlighted the organisation’s resilience through Covid, in rapidly transferring services online to leave no client without support. CEO Lisa Steele spoke of the privilege of seeing the difference Chai makes to people’s lives every day and paid tribute to her team and the support they give clients.
As luck would have it, the day threw its own curve ball when speaker, Jane Lush, producer of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing show, came down with Covid.
With the assistance of long-term supporter Karen Goodkind, Chai found the solution in guest Linda Plant, better known as Lord Sugar’s ‘Queen of Mean’ on The Apprentice. The Leeds-born entrepreneur enthralled the audience with the story of her rise from modest beginnings to multi-million-pound success and TV fame, and how she caught the business bug at the age of 13, working on the family’s market stall in Dewsbury. Behind her spiky TV reputation (‘I knew what they wanted and how to deliver it’), Linda waved the flag for women, encouraging them to seize every
Lisa Steele, Alexia Baron, Louise Hager and model Simone Baron
Angela Abramson, Claire Lefton, Davinia Teacher, Michaela Seal
Averyl (centre) and models strike a pose
Karin Greenberg, Orly Wolfson
‘Self-image is fundamental for a woman experiencing changes to her body from cancer treatment’Back row: Nici Kalms, Lynn Gluckman, Sherry Sher Front row: Stacey Elvey, Heather Sher, Mandy Carlin
opportunity: ‘Say “yes”. It buys you the time to work out the “how”. Everyone’s got some talent, some drive. I never knew where I was going but I’m still motivated. Age is no barrier.’
The trademark beauty and care that goes into this event was on full display: from stunning floral centre-pieces on the tables to the finesse of Ben Tenenblat’s modern menu, the show’s production by Muzika to the lynchpin of the day, Averyl, who has achieved ‘national treasure’ status within Chai for her extraordinary dedication. All this was summed up by supporter Debra Zender who gave the heartfelt vote of thanks.
No-one illustrated the critical role Chai played during those long lockdown months, more than client Alexia Baron who addressed the audience with searing eloquence. Aged 29, and 34 weeks pregnant, Alexia was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2020. The next day her GP’s surgery shut down and the country ‘closed’ five days later. ‘I kept asking my husband Josh, “What are we meant to do?”. There was no treatment plan, even my oncologist couldn’t tell me what we were facing until my baby was born.’
Alexia was induced at 39 weeks and literally wheeled across the road to begin chemotherapy. Covid meant she not only endured surgery, immunotherapy, scans and appointments all alone, but also the hair loss and weight change side-effects. ‘Only Chai remained “open” (albeit remotely) to support me and my family,’ she said. Couples counselling was put in place immediately and, when it was allowed, Alexia had physiotherapy and massage to deal with the discomfort of treatment. ‘Cancer impacts you and your loved ones on a deep and profound level. After survival mode, you realise what you’ve been through and it’s like going to war. I needed to find the words to grieve what I once was and thought I would be, to acknowledge what all my family just went through. I cannot begin to express the gratitude we have for Chai – they gave space for each of us to be heard.
‘Chai was started because something was missing in the Jewish community,’ continued Alexia. ‘That very mindset is something that has driven me in my own life, in those long and uncomfortable days of treatment. All of us patients were sitting – half exposed – during treatment as the chemo was delivered through a port under the chest or via a PICC line in the arm. It’s all wrong, I thought.’ And so, Porto & Bello – a line of adaptive clothing which Alexia created to help anyone facing treatment feel more human – was born. A percentage of profits is going to Chai. ‘Turning that negative into a positive has allowed me to breathe again.’ www.portoandbello.com
Lady Daniela Pears, Tania Pears, Nicola Loftus
Claudia Salem, Emma Samuels,Natalie Cesman
Model and table host Orly Wolfson (middle row, fifth from right) with her friends and supporters of the event Lucie Spungin, Debra Clifton, Tracy-Anne Oberman, Karen Bishko
Beautiful floral displays were generously donated byHome From Home NW7, Flowers By Miri, Jennie Mann,Amber Rose and Rob Van Helden
Diagnosed while expecting her second child, Alexia had to be induced at 39 weeks so treatment could begin
Alexia’s treatment-accessible clothing was inspired by her cancer experience
‘Every day we see how Chai’s services improve our clients’ quality of life, boosting their wellbeing,’ says Louise Hager. ‘In leaving a legacy to Chai in their will, a person gifts us the ability to continue that vital support. It is hugely important to us as we do not charge for any services, and, with no government subsidy, such donations – however large or small – are a funding lifeline.’
While dealing with one’s will may be a sensitive process, having one in place ensures your wishes are carried out. If your will already exists and you want to include Chai, speak to your solicitor about adding a codicil (a legal document to accompany a will) to take in your request. Leaving a gift to a charity is also an effective way to reduce the overall inheritance tax liability on your estate. ‘As well as legacies, families often come to us wishing to honour their loved one,’ says Louise. ‘We welcome the opportunity to discuss how best to reflect that person’s personality or interests so that it is even more meaningful.’
The art room at Chai in Hendon is named in memory of artist Anna Finchas z’l (left) who was supported by Chai after being diagnosed with lung cancer in March 2010. ‘Anna passed away later that year, shortly after her 60th birthday,’ explains her sister, Jean Shindler. ‘Anna loved being in the art room, which along with counselling was so helpful. And when Anna was too ill to come to Chai, they came to her. Her sons and I also benefited from counselling.’ After her father passed away in 2014, Jean approached Chai with the idea of naming the art room. ‘At the opening ceremony of the room, which is also used for children’s art therapy, people commented on the incredible attention to detail,’ says Jean. ‘My parents and Anna would be thrilled that so many people can benefit from this wonderful space and the therapeutic effect of art.’
In 2015, Michael Kaufman honoured his late wife Roberta z’l (pictured on their wedding day) who came to Chai after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. While Roberta had her counselling appointments, Michael would head to the quiet waiting room. ‘It was so peaceful sitting there, undisturbed, knowing Roberta had somewhere to take her worries.’ After Roberta passed away, Michael, too, had counselling. ‘It solidified my feelings for Chai.’ Roberta is recognised on a donor board in Chai’s reception. ‘It was important to me that she is acknowledged,’ says Michael, who has since discussed with Chai the legacy he will leave after he is gone. ‘I feel settled knowing everything is in place.’
At a lecture in the early years of Chai, Vivien Spevock (left, with husband, Ed) heard about the BRCA gene mutation. She has since tested positive for it. ‘For more than 20 years I’ve been supported by Chai as cancer has returned and taken its toll,’ says Vivien who, despite everything, completes a yearly fundraising walk with her family. ‘I want Chai to benefit from my will because I so appreciate all the services that have helped me: jewellery-making, meditation, reiki, and manual lymphatic drainage, so crucial after my surgeries. I am so pleased Chai is there for me and want others to be supported as I have been.’
For more information about legacies, visit chaicancercare.org/legacies. If you would like to discuss a legacy or gift, please email ian.kamiel@chaicancercare.org or call 020 8457 3397
A legacy or donation in memory of a loved one is a precious way to honour a life and ensures Chai will be here to support future generationsThe quiet waiting room where MichaelKaufman found solace Children have art therapy in the room named after Anna Finchas
This ancient Chinese pressure-point therapy focuses on the feet to benefit the whole person
How can the base of your toes have a direct relationship with your eyes and nose? Or your large intestine connect to your instep? Reflexology is a practice that uses pressure on specific points around the feet to release toxins in the body. Anecdotal evidence of its worth is strong and its roots stretch back 4,000 years in Eastern medicine and to depictions in Egyptians tombs.
Like many complementary therapies, it works on the unconscious nervous system. ‘The aim is to balance all the body’s systems so they function as well as possible,’ explains Debbie MyersAnderson, a Chai reflexologist based in the North West London flagship. Clients at Chai have reflexology to relieve a broad range of issues. ‘It is such an intense, anxious time for everyone affected by a cancer diagnosis. Sleep is disrupted, the mind is racing, emotions are raw,’ says Debbie. ‘People having treatment are often in pain and experiencing unpleasant side effects from surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and other drugs.’
Debbie follows a pattern of pressure points or sensors round the foot that relate to organs, glands and muscles. Combined with elements of foot massage, the therapy can achieve physical and psychological results, improving blood flow, breaking down tension, alleviating stress and aiding sleep. ‘Reflexology is a very direct way to treat a person,’ she advocates. ‘It’s non-invasive, you don’t have to talk, or undress, or even lie down. All you do is take off your socks and shoes.’ Another plus is that reflexology is usually safe
In traditional Chinese medicine, pressure points on the foot correspond to different parts of the body
to have alongside cancer treatment. (It’s a proviso that any services from Chai are approved by the client’s medical team before they start.)
One of the most challenging consequences of chemotherapy is neuropathy, when healthy cells in the body’s nerve endings are damaged, making everyday tasks difficult. ‘It can range from mild to extreme,’ says Debbie. ‘The timescale also varies: some people get rid of it quickly, for others it can be a permanent condition.’
In 2020, halfway through chemotherapy for her breast cancer, Marilyn Myers began to feel a tingling sensation in her hands and feet. It was the onset of neuropathy, ‘My feet felt like lumps of ice even though they weren’t cold. They became numb and I was losing my balance. It’s like walking on sand and standing up is still difficult. It’s a constant discomfort and at night the sensations can stop me from sleeping. I’ve also had to give up sewing, which I love, because I can’t feel my fingertips anymore,’ she explains.
Marilyn doesn’t know whether her neuropathy will disappear completely but she cannot overstate the worth of regular reflexology. ‘As I’m having a treatment, I can feel the nerve endings in my feet and hands firing up again. For about week, there is genuine relief and the pain reduces from a 10 to a six. It makes life so much more bearable.’
‘There is genuine pain relief. It makes life more bearable’
For more information about reflexology, please email charlotteh@chaicancercare.org or call Charlotte Hildebrand on 020 8457 3238
The most common cancer in men is prostate and in 2019, it accounted for 28% of all male cancers. More than half were diagnosed with stage 1 or 2 and at that early stage, patients have a 100% fiveyear survival rate, according to the Office for National Statistics.
The NHS is keen to build on these positive numbers through its longterm cancer plan. At the moment there is no screening programme for prostate cancer, as it has not been proven that the benefits would outweigh the risks. However, there is an ‘informed choice programme’, which enables men over the age of 50, or younger men with other increased risk factors, to have a discussion with their GP in order to arrange a blood test to measure their PSA level (PSA is a protein produced by normal cells in the prostate and also by prostate cancer cells).
If you have a family history of prostate cancer, or if you carry a BRCA mutation, you should speak to your GP about starting annual PSA
testing earlier than age 50. The PSA level can be used to identify men who require further investigation. Most men with a raised PSA will not go on to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. If your PSA is raised, you will be referred to a urology clinic, where they will take a thorough clinical history and possibly an MRI scan. The use of PSA in combination with MRI scanning helps flag up those patients who need further invasive testing, such as a biopsy.
When diagnosed early, prostate cancer can be successfully treated with a variety of options. Not everyone will be eligible for all courses of action, but it is important that patients receive sufficient information and be empowered to make the best treatment decisions. Some treatments are delivered by surgeons and others by oncologists. Both surgery and radiation-based treatments have the same cure rate but carry different side effects. So, if you are offered different possible treatments, take the time to understand what each one is and their respective side effects.
Survival rates for prostate cancer are 100% when caught early enough. Consultant clinical oncologist
Dr Gillian Marks describes how to ensure the best outcomes
Recently, throughout the UK, there has been a move towards patient-centred decisions, where multi-disciplinary professionals ensure that patients are involved throughout the process. Surgeons, oncologists, clinical nurse specialists, radiologists and pathologists meet to discuss newly diagnosed patients to get a range of expertise and opinions. Patients should then be seen by both an oncologist and a surgeon so they can receive balanced and specialist advice.
Not all men diagnosed with prostate cancer need treatment straight away. Many factors, including age, general health and the likelihood of the cancer causing a problem, are considered. These, along with the potential side effects of the treatments, will help to guide decision making. Some men may undergo a period of active surveillance or watchful waiting prior to treatment – and with good reason, as it can delay potential side effects such as urinary, bowel symptoms or erectile dysfunction, for longer. Other men are less concerned with the possible side effects and more focused on removing or destroying the cancer cells.
There are occasional situations where a team would recommend one treatment over another but often patients would be suitable for several. As more people are diagnosed early, a greater number of patients will be living with long-term side effects of anti-cancer treatments and long-term support services are available via Men’s Health Clinics.
Hospitals often run seminars, and Macmillan and Prostate Cancer UK also provide unbiased, factual help. There are many online resources available to support patient decision-making. One I’ve been involved in developing is: https://tinyurl.com/2p97puyf
Curative treatments for prostate cancer are usually prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate), external radiotherapy or brachytherapy (when radiation is delivered internally). Sometimes patients may be eligible for minimally invasive soundwave therapy (called HIFU) or cryotherapy, when extreme cold is used to ablate (destroy) abnormal tissue.
Beyond factual medical guidance, the health professionals and therapists at Chai provide many supportive services for men, including counselling, psychosexual counselling, physiotherapy and a Men’s Support Group.
The most important message to take home if you are concerned about your prostate cancer risk is to consult your GP to discuss getting a PSA test. If you are diagnosed with early prostate cancer, there are many treatment options. Taking a few days to reflect on the treatment best suited to your needs won’t alter the outcome but will ensure that you have all the information you need to make a considered decision.
It is important to take time to make the correct decision for you. These are some things to consider:
Are you comfortable with active surveillance or watchful waiting, even if it may lead to additional anxiety, extra tests and appointments?
What kind of treatment side effects might you tolerate and what would you prefer to avoid (urinary symptoms, impotence, bowel symptoms)?
Would you prefer treatment with newer technologies which may have some advantages, or standard treatment which has more long-term data available?
How important is treatment/recovery time for you? (Some radiation-based treatments are delivered over a period of weeks.)
Dr Gillian Marks is a Consultant Clinical Oncologist at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre. She specialises in the treatment of cancers of the urinary tract such as prostate, bladder and kidney cancers. Her clinical practice includes both radiation and systemic (hormone treatment, chemotherapy and immunotherapy) treatments. Her areas of interest include the role of radiotherapy techniques in the treatment of kidney cancers, image guided radiotherapy and brachytherapy in the treatment of prostate cancer.
She is involved in the education and training of future consultant clinical oncologists and is an educational and clinical supervisor. She is a Regional Specialty Adviser for The Royal College of Radiologists and has recently joined Chai’s Medical Advisory Panel.
‘ Take the time to understand what each treatment is and their respective side effects’
It’s understandable that some people feel apprehensive, even cynical about hypnotherapy. In day-to-day life, we mostly use our conscious mind and logic. Studies show, however, that during hypnotherapy, it’s the more imaginative, subconscious mind that is active. Working on this level, one is more receptive to healing messages and positive imagery to deal with panic, nausea, phobias, weight and other body issues arising out of cancer.
People vary in how quickly they fall into a relaxed state but this is no sign of being gullible. The first session is all about building trust. Body language can show how the client is feeling as much as what they say, and hypnotherapists use all these cues to tune in to what may benefit them most.
The therapist’s voice is very important in this process and a session usually begins with a guided breathing exercise. As the voice slows and lowers, the client will ease into a deep state of relaxation. Despite this, the ears are always ‘on’, and sounds will enter the unconscious mind, calming the vibrational frequency in the brain. Hypnotherapists draw on a blend of many disciplines, including talk therapy, breath work, healing and visualisation. These act as a catalyst to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which governs the body’s ability to rest, relax and self-heal.
Absolutely not – there’s a huge difference between hypnotists who are entertainers and hypnotherapists who are focused on supporting a person holistically. Hypnotherapists use their skills to build confidence in a person, empowering them to use their own resources to cope with the impact of a cancer diagnosis. It’s actually impossible to do something against your core values and if a message goes against these, the client will most likely open their eyes and come out of relaxation.
In fact, people rarely fall asleep during hypnotherapy, and research shows the brain behaves differently when hypnotised to when the person is asleep. If it does happen, a change in tone of voice or using the client’s name will bring them back. There are certain exercises that require the client to be more active and keep their eyes open. Conversely, if a client is troubled by insomnia, dropping off during a session provides proof they have the resources to overcome the problem.
Hypnotherapy isn’t about uncovering the past but sometimes previous negative emotions can trickle through into the cancerrelated situation. Using desensitizing, visualisation and future-focused techniques, the therapist can help the client let go of these unhelpful feelings – even those embedded in the subconscious. This type of approach is one of the most effective for addressing any phobias clients may have surrounding cancer treatment.
The feedback from clients after a session is that they feel positive, uplifted, and relaxed – there’s an extra spark! Just as you exercise to keep fit, you can top up the benefits of hypnotherapy with a little ‘homework’. This can be practicing visualisations: when you focus on a detailed picture of a positive scenario. Another technique is to recognise every win, big or small: ringing the doctor, asking for help, attending an appointment when you’re scared, getting through the next session of chemo. Each one is worth acknowledging to yourself.
about hypnotherapy, please
charlotteh@chaicancercare.org or
Hildebrand
Support for Chai comes in many forms and here’s where we celebrate them!
From baking and painting to running and climbing mountains, your incredible commitment and creativity is endless –as is our appreciation
A livestream, day-long Painta-Thon was how teacher and Chai client Sharon Wakefield decided to raise money for Chai and Sarcoma UK. Sharon raised £3,365.48. ‘Chai was with me every step of the way with counselling, nutritional advice and treatments after my radiotherapy and surgeries. Painting is a passion, so this was the ideal way to say “thank you”.’
When her friend Abigail Jacobs (known to her mates as AJ) was diagnosed with leukemia, 13-year-old Jasmine Harris, a Yavneh student performed a fundraising piano recital for Chai. ‘AJ is inspirational and has had such a positive attitude throughout all her treatment. Chai is a fantastic charity that has provided amazing support for her and her family.’ Jasmine’s concert raised £2,251.
Ten-year-old Dylan Glick was taught how to braid challah by his mum Sharon, during lockdown. In July he organised a fundraiser –his grandmother Sue is a Chai client – and taught the boys in his class at Rosh Pinah School how to do it, too, raising £163. We’re sure Paul Hollywood would approve!
Dylan (in red trainers) and bakingclassmates
When nine-year-old Marley Davis caught Covid, a friend dropped off a care package to help relieve her boredom. Inside was a braceletmaking kit and Marley began creating and then selling them to support Chai. ‘They have been so kind, caring and helpful to my grandma,’ said Marley, who raised £100. Mad Hair Day, the annual event raising awareness in schools for Chai’s children’s services, made an impression on Lianne Lazarov, a pupil at Kerem School who was inspired to sell her handmade bracelets, raising £50.
‘Looking after a partner with cancer, as well as kids, and having a full-time job isn’t easy. I needed time for me,’ said Chai client Carolyn Raven. As a passionate home cook, she decided to combine her hobby with raising money for Chai by hosting a fundraising dinner party with dishes from Yotam Ottolenghi’s cookbook Ottolenghi Test Kitchen: Shelf Love. ‘Friends and family came together with a positive focus to bond and support, which was exactly what we needed during this difficult time. Chai has done so much for us as a family and we raised nearly £800.’
As a colourful finale to Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, Sara Jaffe of Chabad led 40 women in person and on Zoom in a Whitefield Chabad Pink Challah Bake, raising £400. Guests also heard moving testimonies from Francine Goldman and Michal Mocton, both previously supported by Chai.
Friends Eliana, Amelie and Shayna did the world of baking proud with their wares, which they sold to support Chai, raising £70. ‘We wanted to bake and give the proceeds to people in need,’ said the girls.
Having lost loved ones to cancer, the work of Chai was the motivating force for Eden Marsh-Shoffren to organise an auction for young teens in the Borehamwood area. Along with her fellow BBYO members, the auction, which included vouchers for meals at local eateries, Balagan and Bricky’s, raised £120
Auction organisers (from left), Max Morris, Gaby Rodner, Saul Green, Georgina Gordon and Eden Marsh-Shoffren
Straight off the blocks, Young Chai Presents… Strike! was the launch event for a new Young Chai committee. More than 100 guests put their oomph and accuracy into a bowling evening at the ritzy Kingpin Suite in Bloomsbury. The event raised more than £5,000. Co-chairs David Judah and Miles Braslavsky said, ‘It’s so exciting that we are able to revive this committee, create some fantastic events for young professionals and give people an opportunity to learn about and support Chai in the process.’
A comedy night in June featuring headliner Geoff Norcott marked the debut ‘Year of Dan’ event organised by law firm CMS in memory of their colleague Dan Shaw who passed away from oesophageal cancer in October 2020. CMS aims to raise £25k each for Chai and Cancer Research UK. Held at the Backyard Comedy Club in Bethnal Green, the line-up also included Jeff Innocent, Mary Bourke, and host Gary Colman.
In June, 80 clients were treated to a fabulous day in Marlow, away from it all, thanks to the generosity of a Chai benefactor. The mood was emotional and celebratory. For some, it was their first day out since the restrictions of the pandemic were lifted while other clients who’d only met in Chai’s online support groups until now, were able to say ‘hello’ in real life – who would think that idea would become so priceless? The day included lunch in a beautiful garden, entertainment from singer Jonny Moses and magician Jon Allen, and relaxing boat trips along the River Thames.
In June, the Chai Lights Committee in Manchester were thrilled to hold their first post-Covid fundraiser, a Jubilee quiz fit for a queen, at the Sha’arei Shalom Shul in Whitefield. Guests enjoyed coffee, kichels and kuchens and the hall was decked out in cheerful red, white and blue. The Mancunians team won but of course, what everyone wants to know is how much was raised. And the answer came from Jakki Pinsley, Chair of the committee. ‘I’m overjoyed we raised £1,065. It was a sell-out success.’ Fellow committee members and organisers were Reba Tury, Marcelle Kuhillow, Francine Goldman, Val Samberg, Stephanie Jacobs and Bernice Huller.
Following Coby Bull’s 300km Lapland husky sled for Chai (see p.8 for the full story), the adventurer hosted an exhibition of landscapes (and very cute huskies) he captured on camera. Friends and family attended the show at Chai in Hendon, and sales of the striking black and white prints contributed £4,134 to the total £25,100 raised.
Delayed for two years because of Covid, the welcome return of the Dancing with Louise show was a joyful celebration of ballet, hip-hop, tap and gymnastics, from more than 220 performers. Entitled ‘Descending Into Hogwarts’, it provided a touch of magic for the audience – and raised £7,000 for Chai. Louise Leech said afterwards, ‘The atmosphere on the day was electric and we are thrilled to continue to support Chai and all the phenomenal work they do.’
#1 Friends at Birmingham University fulfilled two mitzvahs when they put together mishloach manot packages to sell. The first was to spread friendship and provide food for the Purim feast. And the second? Chai benefitted by £1,200
#2 In Manchester, long-term Chai supporters, the Myerson family, took to the streets for their Purim spiel. Dressed as marathon runners and armed with collection buckets, they raised over £90 for Chai. ‘Chai are real lifesavers for so many people in the community,’ said Timothy Myerson, ‘just like Esther and Mordechai in the Purim story. We wanted to combine the fun of Purim with the importance of tzedakah.’
• In March young volunteers from Project ImpACT visited Chai in Hendon, to make up Pesach packages for children and families being supported by Chai. Volunteers toured the centre and were given the opportunity to see the Children’s Play Therapy rooms and Teenage Resource Centre. They then packed 100 boxes containing Seder games, each with a handwritten message.
• Girls in Pinner Shul’s Bat Mitzvah Group performed an act of true chesed (kindness) for young clients also celebrating this year. ‘We wanted to let these girls know that we are thinking of them by doing something special,’ said Community Director Sara Levin. The girls prepared beautiful goodie bags filled with glitter pens, photo frames, chocolate-making kits and snacks.
• Chai’s wonderful volunteers boxed up donuts for Chanukah generously donated by Daniels Bakery in Temple Fortune along with Chanukah gelt, a dreidel and a copy of The Adventures of Gertie Grizzler… Gertie’s Rumbling Tummy kindly gifted by author and Chai supporter Sue Katz. The boxes were delivered to young clients in North London and Hertfordshire, with one recipient saying, ‘The house was echoing with excitement and there were smiles all round.’
It’s sociable and it gives you a mental workout. Online bridge is here to stay and the year’s popular bridge tournaments organised by Carol Ellman, Susan Freedman and Samantha Glazer, have raised £1,560
‘He was a larger-than-life character and we wanted to celebrate that,’ said Angela Novick, cousin of Jonny Baker, and one of the ‘turning-50-year-olds’ who organised a pub crawl in his memory. Jonny lost his life to lung cancer last year and members of his Bnei Akivah year group toasted him by visiting several drinking establishments in Primrose Hill, raising £2,206. ‘It was fitting to raise money for Chai. It was a wonderful source of support to Jonny’s family.’
Reuben Dias, Mount Snowdon climb: £2,555
Reuben chose this challenge for Chai to remember and honour his grandparents, Rhona and Roy, both of whom had cancer and turned to Chai. Caron, Reuben’s mum said, ‘The wider family were all so grateful for the advice, care and attention offered to them both and we are delighted that Reuben raised such a significant amount.’
Aryeh Moss, Ben Nevis climb: £334
Despite the long day and some tough moments, Aryeh was focused and motivated to complete his climb by the memory of family friend David Bloom. ‘The views from the top of Ben Nevis were amazing – and the money raised even more so!’ said Aryeh.
Ilan Craig, Mount Snowdon Climb: £2,345
‘I thought this would be a fun, healthy challenge,’ says Ilan ‘and I chose Chai because my mum works for the charity and I know about the great work they do. Chai has supported lots of people I know and care about.’
Chai Mitzvah is an opportunity for a young person to do something special during their Bar/Bat Mitzvah year. As a Chai Mitzvah Ambassador you:
• See ‘Chai in Action’ by touring the flagship centre in Hendon
• Create a fundraiser. Find the perfect way to raise money for our Chai in Schools programme
• Volunteer, as part of #TeamChai at our events
• Meet some of our younger clients at a special Chanukah party
• Receive a Chai Mitzvah Ambassador certificate.
To find out more please contact Caroline at carolinetunkel@chaicancercare.org or call 020 8457 3233
Footie came home this year thanks to the England women’s team but Eden Baron was ahead of the curve last October with her five-hour, five-a-side Bat Mitzvah fundraising match at the Mill Hill Power League.
Yonatan Havkin, Football Tournament: £1,065
What a result! Yonatan’s Bar Mitzvah fundraiser was a winner for Chai.
This year’s challenge took parents and children up to the Lake District to climb mountains and go wild swimming in Ullswater. Elli Morris, dad to Asher and dedicated chairman of Chai’s fundraising brochure committee, said ‘It was an incredible challenge! We’re so happy to have supported Chai.’ Not only did all the participants return with a great sense of achievement and purpose, but Chai also benefitted hugely from their amazing efforts.
This initiative is about making a positive difference to the world and the Bat Mitzvah Club at The Village Shul chose an artistic route. With a ‘warm and calming’ brief from one of Chai’s art therapists, the girls created four canvasses reflecting the seasons, which are now on display in one of the children’s therapy rooms at Chai in Hendon.
B’nei Mitzvah Challenge
Elli & Asher Morris: £1,162
Martin & Ellie Mitchell: £3,059 Eliana & Abramson:Michael £952
In January, the Village Shul’s Teen Girls Club visited Chai for a tour of the Hendon flagship. The visit was followed by a floral masterclass led by Diane at Home From Home NW7, where they learnt to create gorgeous flower arrangements that were then given to Chai clients. Said Rebbetzin Devorah Weisz, ‘We wanted to give back and bring a little joy. The girls learned so much and walked away feeling positive and inspired by what Chai does.’
The much-loved Club 18 Golf tournament welcomed 92 supporters, keen to enjoy a day of fine play and fundraising at Dyrham Park Country Club. Though the rain poured, it didn’t dampen the spirits. ‘It was great to finally have our Club 18 Golf Day back to normality,’ stated committee members Michael Lubliner, Ronnie Gottlieb OBE, Michael Lerner and Michael Davis.
The winning ladies’ team (right) was made up of Rosamund Balcombe, Hayley Herman, Angela Stern and Phillipa Wainer who scored an impressive 82 points. The winning men’s team (bottom right), with an excellent 94 points, was made up of Les Abrahams, Howard Joseph, Ralph Kossman and Russell Samson. After lunch, Chai client, Jack Aboody spoke movingly about the support he, his late wife Genna and their two children have received from Chai, after Genna’s diagnosis of colon cancer. The event raised £43,000 towards supporting the Chai in Schools programme.
Meanwhile, Oh Brown Bear’s coffee and cookie van and Ben Tenenblat’s ‘Crave’ truck kept shoppers amply fed and watered. The event saw the lip-smacking launch of Babka, Boulou & Blintzes – Jewish Chocolate Recipes From Around The World, compiled by previous Chai client Michael Leventhal. And in the afternoon, husband and wife restauranteurs and authors, Sarit Packer and Itamar Srulovich of Honey & Co, hosted an exclusive, live cooking demonstration.
Event organisers, Debra Zender and Julia Abrams, said, ‘After Covid-19, we approached the gift sale with trepidation this year – not knowing what to expect. We are completely blown away by the support of our community – we raised over £30,000.’ The event was made possible with sponsorship from Roundtree Real Estates, Hart & Co, Grosvenor Hire and the generous gift of 300 of Tony Page’s famous honey cakes. As always the CST was on hand looking after security on the day. Louise Hager said, ‘It’s an ideal opportunity to visit Chai and experience the special, positive atmosphere.’
The ever-innovative Rosh Hashanah Gift Sale had such a buzz of anticipation about it and was more exciting than ever with an expanding artisan food market selling flavoured gins, a range of smoked salmon with sophisticated cures and divine chocolates. More than 30 vendors presented a beautiful mix of homeware, Judaica, jewellery, clothes, flowers and millinery, all of whom donate a proportion of their takings.
Top: Debra Zender (left) and Julia Abrams with Louise Hager and Lisa Steele. Shoppers were delighted with the array of gifts and food at the Gift Sale
The northwest’s annual fundraising week in May has been a regular in the calendar for five years (barring 2020 due to Covid-19). It invites supporters of all ages to take part in a challenge or host an event to support local Chai services.
Dreamt up by the Chai Girls Committee, headed by Lisa Nissan and supported by Jane Mechlowitz, Clare Spieler, Michal Mocton, Amanda Adshead, Alex Caplan and Lisa Hodari, this year’s Week for Chai events included:
A Bake and Book sale: The Chai Girls Committee hosted a coffee morning, with an abundance of homemade cakes, cookies and challahs to buy. It took place at the home of Jane Mechlowitz who said, ‘Chai is very close to my heart, especially since I was a client 10 years ago. It supports thousands of cancer patients and their families who would have no one else to turn to and is a true lifeline.’
The event provided the perfect setting for the launch of Manchester’s Finest, an exclusive-for-Chai cookery book
compiled by the Chai Girls committee and featuring recipes by Manchester’s top kosher chefs and caterers, including Celia Clyne and Feast by Ed Shaerf.
To buy a copy of Manchester’s Finest for £10, please call 0161 772 4760.
Kids Artisan Market The second annual ‘Kids Artisan Market’ took place in Prestwich, drawing 250 shoppers and Chai supporters. The 24 stalls sold wares such as handmade jewellery and there was also a petting zoo, which proved hugely popular – even the snake was a hit!
A FUNKIDS Bootcamp saw 19 active youngters put through their cardio and strength-building paces by Community Fundraiser Jilly Berens.
To top off the week, Lucie Wolfenden joined thousands of runners to take on and complete the Manchester Half Marathon. Lucie surpassed her £1,500 target and raised an impressive £1,705.
Unstoppable and everywhere – you challenged yourself in London, Manchester, Paris, Morocco, Tanzania… and several thousand feet above earth, too!
In October, seven ‘foot soldiers’ donned their purple running tops to run the Virgin Money London Marathon raising more than £30,000.
Lucy Ross ran with her dad Robin Silvester, and raised an awesome £11,983, far exceeding her target of £3,000. Completing the run in 4 hrs and 51 mins, Lucy ran for Chai after her mum was diagnosed with bowel cancer in November 2018. ‘She’s doing well but continues to have chemo for maintenance. Chai was there when we needed it most.’
Emma Benjamin raised £5,000, crossing the finish line in 6 hrs 1 min. Emma said, ‘I felt very proud to wear my Chai Cancer Care vest. Afterwards, I said never again but I’ve already entered the ballot for next year, so we’ll see!’
Jack Schapira completed his first London marathon in 3 hrs 51 mins and raised £3,243 ‘After the life-changing support Chai provided my family in the past and the incredible support it gives to our community, I challenged myself to achieve this milestone. Many obstacles got in the way but now I can say “mission accomplished!”’
Debra Peters came in at 5 hours and 28 minutes and raised over £1,830. Debra explained her reasons for running: ‘Both my uncle and a very close friend as well as their families are currently using Chai. My mum volunteers for Chai, too. I am so happy I managed to face my biggest physical challenge, to help people with theirs.’
Michal Chody completed the route in 5 hours and 41 minutes and has raised a fantastic £1,873 so far. She said: ‘I’ve gone all out… a marathon! I have put in over 70 hours of training and covered almost 400 miles. Chai helps thousands navigate their own personal marathon as a result of a cancer diagnosis.’
Running one of the loveliest London routes, friends Jake and Joseph showed their appreciation for the support Jake’s late grandfather received from Chai following his cancer diagnosis. ‘The extensive range of specialised support services helped him so much,’ said Jake.
Darryl Jaffe, Skydive: £4,239
More used to keeping his feet on terra firma as a property company director, Darryl took to the skies in May for Chai. Back on land, Darryl’s verdict was ‘Incredible, loved it!’
Emma Levy, London Triathlon: £9,096
In 2020 Emma was due to compete in her first London Triathlon. Covid and being diagnosed with breast cancer put paid to her plans. ‘One of the ways I got through it was to set myself a goal of competing one year later.’ Eleven months after finishing chemotherapy and 10 months after a double mastectomy and reconstruction, in August 2021 Emma achieved her goal, setting personal bests in all three disciplines. ‘I did it to raise awareness of what one can still achieve when faced with cancer and to raise funds for the fantastic charities that helped me through. Chai has been invaluable to my family.’
Sarah Perez, 300,000 steps in September: £1,088
In February 2020, Sarah was diagnosed with a rare eye cancer, ocular melanoma. Chai and OcuMel supported her through her first year of treatment. ‘I will forever be grateful for the incredible support and advice that helped keep me sane during the past 18 months.’ Sarah’s ‘thank you’ was to walk 300,000 steps and invite people to walk with her. She had t-shirts made up with logos and set up an Instagram page to chart her progress. ‘I was thrilled to achieve my goal and to have raised such a sum.’
The biggest half-marathon in the North-West region, with 15,000 participants, also included Emma, not only a first-time half-marathoner, but a complete running novice. ‘My mum had cancer last year and it’s been hard. As a family, we would have struggled without the support of Chai,’ she said.
The men successfully mastered the taxing 100-mile cycle from Victoria Embankment out to Essex and back to Tower Bridge. Chai Trustee, Philip Hertz said, ‘We have all been touched by cancer and so admire the work Chai does for the community. The challenge is tough – the cycling equivalent of a marathon – but the thing that kept us going, apart from the energy bars and looking for a decent coffee stop, was knowing we were raising vital funds for Chai.’
‘Climbing a mountain is out of most people’s comfort zone,’ says Simon who joined an expedition to Kilimanjaro in July. Reaching Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest, took him through five climate zones to the summit at 19,340 ft. ‘Having had a brain tumour four years ago, this crazy idea became a goal. It was an exciting – if exhausting – experience!’
Cousins Benjamin, five, and Tom, seven climbed Kinder Scout and trekked Jacobs Ladder in the Peak District on a 12-mile fundraising hike as a way to remember Benjamin’s dad, Patrick, who passed away of pancreatic cancer in November 2021.
The couple’s yearly walk for Chai took place in beautiful Somerset. They were joined by other family members keen to acknowledge the support Vivien has had from Chai over the years.
Maccabi Fun Run: £10,222
More than 70 runners from six-yearsold to 80 joined forces for this classic community run. Eleanor Kandil explained her family’s participation: ‘My mum passed away from cancer last year and Chai were a fantastic support on our short, difficult journey and afterwards.’ Alex Grainger was also running in memory of her mother, June. ‘Chai supported my daughter in school with counselling. We were very grateful for all they did for us.’ Fun Run
veterans father and son Phil and Daniel Singer ran in memory of Phil’s mother, ‘to raise money for those using Chai now.’ And first-timers Jonathan and Caroline Holman, said, ‘It was our pleasure to support Chai.’ Added Jonathan, ‘My closest friend died of pancreatic cancer recently and his family are receiving incredible bereavement support. Another friend going through treatment has therapy sessions, which are such a boost to their overall wellbeing.’ Jonathan’s mother is also a client.
This was the latest high-rise adventure from Chai Challenges You, the daredevil brainchild of Chai trustee Alexandra Maurice. Since 2012, she has cajoled and converted legions of women into fearless adventurers, taking them climbing, kayaking and trekking in Tanzania, Iceland and now Morocco.
This north African challenge took the mountaineers through striking but harsh Berber landscapes, led by a local guide and some very resilient mules. The group were rewarded with remarkable views, vegetarian Berber food and the togetherness of a unique experience for a common cause. There were low points, too: one participant suffered altitude sickness and a freak electrical storm on the final day compelled the climbers to turn back a few hundred metres from the summit. ‘It was such a disappointment, we were so upset. But we heard of other groups that continued on and sustained injuries because of the treacherous, slippery terrain,’ says Alex. ‘Typically, the next day there was bright sunshine!’
The mother/daughter dynamic provided a distinct energy in the group. ‘It was wonderful having the youngsters with us, and we all felt it was the start of the next generation of Chai Challenges You trekkers. We are so aware of the need for Chai’s services because of Covid and late diagnoses.’ In total, £76,500 was raised.
Each climber recounted their reasons for taking part:
Alexandra Maurice and daughter, Pearl, 18: ‘We did this in memory of our sister-in-law and aunt Amanda Colman z’l, and for all those who have fought this illness.’
Dalia Kay and daughter, Lara, 21: ‘We have completed separate challenges before. This was our first together.’
Jennifer Goldstein and daughter, Ganyah, 21:
‘My heart is with Chai,’ says Jennifer. ‘When my best friend Noa z’l was diagnosed with stage-4 ovarian cancer, Chai was by her side.’
Alicia Ani:
Client Services Manager at Chai: ‘Everyone confronts at least one existential mountain during their lifetime. People facing cancer are not unlike the hiker taking measure of his or her mountain.’
Tracey Levi:
‘We spurred one another on, comforting each other on days we were tired, so that others can reap the benefits of those who’ve supported us.’
Ali Rifkin:
‘Dealing with a cancer diagnosis at any time is incredibly difficult but a diagnosis during the pandemic was even more traumatic.’
Eleanor and Eitan Kandil The Grainger family: Alexand Louise with childrenAbigail and Ben The climbers with their guides and cooks Tough territory en route A moment to reflect Pearl and Alex MauriceJonathan & Lauren Barr, Manchester Marathon: £5,060
‘We were delighted to be the sole representatives for Chai up in Manchester and to raise money for an organisation with whom we have a long and happy association,’ said Jonathan.
Both he and his mother, Valerie z’l, who volunteered for Chai, were supported through their individual cancer journeys. Lauren, Jonathan’s wife also took part though he adds, ‘luckily, not together, as Lauren is simply too fast for me these days!’
Malcolm Plasett, 150-mile walk: £2,069
To mark his 70th birthday, Malcolm wanted to recognise the support his son-in-law, Gideon received from Chai when he was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2018. ‘It was a harrowing time. Chai was there for my daughter, Gideon and their three young children with therapies, counselling and going into the children’s schools when they were so distressed.’ During June, Malcolm invited people to accompany him as he walked five miles every day, amounting to 150 miles. ‘You won’t miss me,’ he joked on his fundraising page. ‘I am just over five feet tall with a bald head and a droopy moustache!’
Visit chaicancercare.org and follow our quick links to make donating easy
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
We can support and advise you on how to make an event or challenge a roaring success.
Contact Caroline Tunkel at carolinetunkel@chaicancercare.org or call 020 8457 3233.
DONATE ONLINE
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Hair loss is something many Chai clients experience during cancer treatment, which is why sponsoring someone to have their hair cut is such a poignant way to raise money.
Said Hannah Leader who raised £1,200 ‘I was touched to understand how much thought and sensitivity goes into running Chai and am very happy to support their important work.’ Emma Benson and Tash Hertzog knew it was Chai they wanted to raise money for when they had their hair cut. Karen, Tash’s mum performed the first snip. The girls said, ‘Chai is an amazing organisation and one very close to our hearts. It benefits the entire family, not just the one diagnosed with cancer.’ Together their efforts raised £6,662.
Jo Golden, Hannah Lethbridge, Katy Giles, The Chiltern Challenge: £4,215
The trio of intrepid fundraisers took part in this challenge to raise money for Chai and remember ‘gregarious, generous, creative and hilarious’ Caroline Saunders who brought them together and who sadly passed away in June 2021. Chai is supporting Caroline’s husband Leon and their two children. ‘We wanted to help by raising some money to support them,’ said Hannah, Caroline’s sister.
Visit Jewish Legacy Giving (jewishlegacy.org.uk) to find out more. We would also be honoured to recognise your generosity during your lifetime.
Contact Ian Karmiel: ian.kamiel@chaicancercare.org or call 020 8457 3397
BY PHONECall Jacki Stanton on 020 8457 3231 or Dana Levene on 020 8457 3232
BY POSTSend cheques or charity vouchers to: Chai Cancer Care 142 – 146 Great North Way London NW4 1EH
If you are a UK taxpayer, Gift Aid increases your donations by 25%. Download a Gift Aid Declaration form from our website.
DONATE AS YOU SHOP
George Rosenfeld of the Kol Tov singing group is the face of Tap to Give, our contactless way to donate £3. Find him in kosher stores in London and Manchester.
Support Chai when you shop with Amazon. Visit smile.amazon.co.uk and select Chai-Lifeline Cancer Care as your chosen charity. Amazon donates 0.5% of the net purchase price (exc. VAT, returns and shipping fees).
Hosting a Shabbat dinner, lunch or party? Invite guests to skip the gift… and donate direct to Chai. Visit giveitapp.org
SORT CODE: 20-65-89 | ACC: 70181153
REF: TOGETHER
