May Newsletter - Kiltwalk Kindness and Marathon Marvels!

Melanoma Awareness Month

May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and we would like to introduce you to Chris. Chris was diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Melanoma in 2020, at 56 years old. Here, she discusses the support she has accessed through Ayrshire Cancer Support.

"My advice to others who have been affected by cancer would be to stay strong, think positively and keep on fighting. It can sometimes feel like a long, hard road, but try not to give up, as it is worth it to keep going with your treatment plan for as long as it takes."

"I have accessed various support through ACS, from their support groups to counselling. After diagnosis, I struggled mentally, feeling that I had no one to talk to, and I struggled to fully understand my cancer prognosis. I have really enjoyed attending some of the groups that ACS have to offer, including the Look Good Feel Better workshop. It was great to meet new people, and I have really benefitted from being able to talk about my feelings and own personal journey."

Thank you for sharing your story with us Chris. If you are affected by cancer, and would like to access our free support services, you can get in touch by emailing us at admin@ayrshirecs.org, or by dropping into our Kilmarnock centre. We're here for you🧡

New support groups this month

Ayrshire Cancer Support run a variety of support services in partnership with other organisations to learn, share experiences and connect with others affected by, or bereaved through cancer.

This month, we launch our Breast Cancer Peer Support Group, running on the first Monday of each month from 1-2:30pm starting on May 5th. The group will be led by Karen, our lead volunteer who is affiliated with Breast Cancer Now and will include some opportunities for learning, but also for relaxed and informal conversations with other people that truly "get it". This will be drop in, without a need to book in advance, and we look forward to welcoming familiar and new faces.

We will also be running our Living with Uncertainty course, starting on Friday 2nd May. This course is a supportive, 4-week programme designed for individuals living with incurable or rare cancer diagnoses, as well as those who are closely impacted by these experiences. The course aims to help those impacted develop practical tools to manage challenging thoughts and emotions, foster a sense of connection to personal values and promote a greater sense of meaning and fulfilment in daily life.

If you would like more information on the courses we facilitate, email us at admin@ayrshirecs.org, or visit our What's On page here.

It's nearly time!

We are absolutely delighted to announce that building renovations have now completed and on the 14th April we received access to our Ayr centre from our wonderful contractors, Ashleigh Building!

While we are so excited to receive access to our new cancer support centre, please bear in mind this building is not officially opened yet. Keep your eyes peeled for updates on our official opening date... coming very, very soon!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have supported and fundraised for this build, we cannot wait to welcome you all when we open our doors 🧡

Calling all green fingered friends!

We are seeking donations of medium or large potted house plants for our newly renovated cancer support centre in Ayr.

Having living plants around the home or workplace has been shown to improve air quality, mood, concentration, the ability to tolerate pain and to reduce stress and fatigue. These plants ‘breathe’ in the opposite way to us, taking in the carbon dioxide that we breathe out, turning it into oxygen  - meaning they are natural air cleaners.

If you have any house plants that you would like to donate, we will be holding a drop off day on Thursday 8th of May between 10am-4pm, at our Ayr centre located at 7 Prestwick Road, Ayr, KA8 8LD. Alternatively, you can email us at admin@ayrshirecs.org to organise a suitable drop off date.

Any donations are greatly appreciated🧡

What a weekend!!

This past weekend was a busy one at Ayrshire Cancer Support, with many of our wonderful supporters taking on the Glasgow Kiltwalk, the London Marathon and the Manchester Marathon!

The atmosphere, and support across the weekend was truly heart-warming, and we are so incredibly grateful to have had the support of so many across these fantastic challenge events.

From all of us at Ayrshire Cancer Support, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our wonderful Kiltwalkers and marathon runners. Your support allows us to continue to provide our vital services to those affected by cancer in Ayrshire🧡

Challenge yourself this summer!

Are you looking to challenge yourself this year? Feeling inspired from our Kiltwalkers and marathon runners? Now's the time to take on your own challenge! 

From the Troon 10k, to Roon the Toon, marathons and cycling events, there's something to suit everyone! 

If you would like more information on how you can take part in a challenge event, and fundraise for Ayrshire Cancer Support, contact us at fundraising@ayrshirecs.org.