Cancer survivor gives backing to charity

THE launch of Maggie's Oldham Kitchen Table Day. From left, Georgia Taylor (business admin apprentice), Gail Hirst (head volunteer), Julie Shaw (domestic) and Jo Roper

AN Oldham breast cancer survivor has pledged her support to Maggie's Oldham as the charity prepares for Maggie's Kitchen Table Day.

Cancer charity Maggie's Oldham is encouraging friends, families and colleagues to create events around their kitchen table ­- be it at work or home ­- on May 5 to help raise awareness and funds.

Jo Roper will be hosting a Maggie's Kitchen Table Day at Buzy Bee Cafe in the The Honeywell Centre in Hathershaw following her own experience with cancer.

She said: "I found a lump in my breast in January 2013 and had my worst fears confirmed - I had Breast Cancer.

In February 2013 I had a lumpectomy, went for my results and was told there was no clear margin, which meant me having a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

"I was not ready for this news whatsoever and it completely floored me."

Following the diagnosis Jo underwent chemotherapy and surgery however an infection left her with a scar and a misshapen breast.

Jo continued: "Since then I have had five more corrective breast surgery operations and last year finally completed it all.

"It has been a long and challenging three years but I now have better symmetry and feel better about my body.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff and nurses at Victoria Unit, Royal Oldham, and North Manchester General Hospital, especially my consultant Dr Absar. All the staff I met have been fantastic and cannot fault a single thing!"

Register to take part in Maggie's Kitchen Table Day on Friday May 5, online now at www.maggiescentres.org/kitchentableday and share photos on the day using the hashtag #maggieskitchentable.

To find out more about Maggie's visit at www.maggiescentres.org/oldham or call 07584 518 266 or laura.tomlinson@maggiescentres.org.

ARE you taking part in Maggie's Kitchen Table Day? Get in touch with the Chronicle on 0161 622 2103 for a chance to feature in the newspaper.