Words by Smiley Team
A new charity is aiming to bring men with advanced stage cancers together for some light-hearted relief.
The Cancer Club was set up for those who are living with the disease, and it offers a digital platform for members to meet people in the same boat, and talk to each other in online forums. It also organises in-person trips to various sporting events where men can enjoy food and drink, share stories, give each other a bit of support and bring some light-hearted relief during difficult times.
“When I was diagnosed with bowel cancer aged 48, there were a lot of places I could go to find information about cancer, but I found it extremely hard to find other men in the same boat to talk to, so I could have someone to share common experiences with," its founder, Matt Wiltshire, tells Smiley News.
"When I finally found some who were prepared to talk, I found it really comforting (and amusing) just to chat and share stories. There is something both soothing and liberating about being with people who just ‘get it’."
(Read about this public campaign aiming to change the conversation around cancer and sex)
Matt says he has always tried to give back in life where he can – and this situation was no different. "I started The Cancer Club to create a platform where men could derive a sense of wellbeing through achieving this feeling of belonging," he says.
So far, typical events include a day out at Brands Hatch to watch the GT World Challenge, a trip to Stamford Bridge to watch Chelsea FC, and a night out at Wembley to watch England play in the World Cup qualifiers.
“These provided a great opportunity for our members to start meeting other members going through similar challenges, and to enjoy a break from the day-to-day drudgery of dealing with advanced stage cancers," says Matt.
(Read about the man who had cancer and walked the length of Britain)
“My research confirmed the anecdotal evidence that men really are ostriches - meaning they tend to bury their heads in the sand regarding health issues. Not only do more men die from cancer, we struggle with more mental health issues often due to isolation. Studies from Cancer Research UK confirm that it is often the women in our lives that make us go to the doctors to get symptoms checked out - sadly quite often this is done too late, leading to a worse diagnosis.”
Anyone interested in The Cancer Club’s work can find out more on its website, which is also where any man dealing with advanced stage cancer can sign up to become a member.
Those interested in donating to the cause can do so here. Plus, the charity is always looking for volunteers. If cancer has touched your life and you would like to offer some of your time to help more men facing this terrible disease, just email [email protected].
