Pam's story
Pam's cancer diagnosis
In May 2022, Pam was diagnosed with breast cancer after she discovered a lump in her breast.
She received chemotherapy treatment shortly after being diagnosed. This was followed up by a mastectomy. After the operation she had a biopsy of the tissue removed and this confirmed that she was cancer free.
Pam says: "I had three Macmillan nurses on hand where I was being treated. Any time I needed anything, they were at the end of the phone. Whenever I went to pick up my medication or needed blood tests done, they would make the time for me and I always knew they were there.
"Had they not been there I think it would’ve been more stressful as I would’ve had to find things out myself and not had someone there to rely on. I have a feeling it would’ve been quite stressful having to make loads of phone calls while going through treatment."
Coffee Morning at Norwood Hall
In October 2024, Pam held her second Coffee Morning at Norwood Hall. The hall is managed by Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall, a Sikh temple that Pam is a member of.
"One reason we didn't just hold it in the temple is because we didn’t want it to become something about religion. It was something that everyone was welcome to attend regardless of beliefs," says Pam.
Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall helped Pam to plan the Coffee Morning. They advertised the event and found local sponsors.
During the Coffee Morning, high figures from the temple also gave talks about fundraising for good causes. They also talked about how to recognise symptoms of cancer and why it's important to see your GP if you're concerned.
Pam also had a stand with leaflets about cancer in different languages so that people could access information in their own language.
"I believe around 200 people came to our Coffee Morning. People from different backgrounds came and talked about their own experiences and asked questions.
"We had people bring a lot of different baked goods for the event. There was also fresh jalebi and pakoreh being made throughout the event. Plus, two companies provided two really large cakes."
The Coffee Morning raised over £10,000!
Pam held her first Coffee Morning at her home October 2022, the same year she was diagnosed.
"It was a way of saying thank you and give something back. I couldn't think of a better way to mingle with my friends and family and raise money at the same time," says Pam.
On people who are unsure about hosting a Coffee Morning, Pam says: "I think you should give it a try - even just once. It is a really fun experience and a great way to catch up with people who matter to you. It gives you the chance to stop and take account of what's really important in life."
Other ways Pam is supporting Macmillan
Outside of hosting two Coffee Mornings, Pam has also been volunteering for Macmillan since 2023.
"I first volunteered selling raffle tickets at a big corporate fundraising event. I remember thinking that I would love to do more things like this," says Pam.
In 2024, Pam volunteered at a cheering point at the London marathon. "I took my two nieces with me and they really enjoyed it and now want to start doing more volunteering, too."
Pam is also a volunteer for Chemogiftbags, a UK charity that provides free curated gift bags for people going through chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer.
Join us for Coffee Morning this September
Coffee Morning returns on Friday 26 September. Gather your friends, family and loved ones together to hold a Coffee Morning and make a difference in the lives of people affected by cancer.
If you can't host, use our postcode search to discover Coffee Mornings near to you or make a donation to help us continue to provide vital support.
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