2016 issue 11
Going the extra mile, WHATEVER IT TAKES
FITNESS and
LIFESTYLE REPORTS
cer’s taboos n a c g n li k c a ITH ●T ORTHWEST W
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N NEED IN THE MEETING THE R’S NEW HUB MANCHESTE
est-seller b w e n s i’ a h ry behind C to s l a n o ti a ir p ● The ins
Chai Cancer Care
A Welcome Message When Chai was founded 26 years ago, no one could have imagined how cancer treatment, care and support would have changed. We are regularly bombarded with statistics about rates for diagnoses and survival but Chai has always focused on the person behind the number: the person we know, the person we love. Our services have been shaped by listening to each client’s needs and by understanding what the impact of a cancer diagnosis means for them and their loved ones on a daily basis. In this issue, you will witness this knowledge and experience in action: through palliative and therapeutic services, which address the effects of surgery and treatment; group and fitness activities that build confidence and health; expert advice we can all act on to improve our wellbeing; and counselling support that ensures clients have a place where they can ask the impossible questions and safely express their feelings.
President The Rt. Hon. Lord Young of Graffham CH DL Founder Presidents Susan Shipman Frances Winegarten z’l Chairman Louise Hager Chief Executive Lisa Steele
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Trustees Louise Hager Jonathan Hodes Lady Kalms MBE Susan Shipman Dr Adrian Tookman Philip Weinstein Lord Young CH DL Honorary Patrons Maureen Lipman CBE Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis
As we continue to respond to the increase in the number of people diagnosed with cancer, read how our expanded Manchester hub is answering the need for more support across the north-west. This is a massive boost to our ability to deliver services, which are now available at 11 centres across the UK. We are constantly inspired by the community’s incredible commitment to Chai and I’m sure you will be uplifted and moved by the story of one family’s remarkable fundraising project. With no statutory funding, the delivery of our services depends on the loyalty and generosity of our much-appreciated donors, committees and supporters, and we count ourselves truly blessed. Thank you for continuing to keep Chai in your hearts.
Louise Hager Chairman
Medical Patrons Prof Michael Baum Prof Michael Brada Dr Rachel Craig 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 David Landau Prof Jonathan Ledermann Dr Jane Neerkin Prof Gordon Rustin Prof Karol Sikora Prof Albert Singer Prof Stephen Spiro Dr Adrian Tookman
Advisory Board Brian Brick Jo Coleman Alan Fell Jonathan Freedman Michael Glass Diane Kenwood Alexandra Maurice Robert Prevezer Marc Samuels Dr Adrian Tookman
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Contents 4 Ahead of the curve Cancer survival rates are increasing but so is the need for support. Chief Executive, Lisa Steele reports
6 Chai’s northern powerhouse Answering an urgent need – our Manchester centre is expanding
17 Service spotlight: Pet therapy
31 Service spotlight: manual lymphatic drainage update
Discover who’s delivering unconditional love, on four legs
Treatment for lymphoedema is now more effective thanks to new equipment
18 A plateful of love
32 Chai Calendar
How Colin Lehmann inspired his family to write a cookbook to support Chai
8 Circle of Light Dinner – Manchester Chai’s northern supporters turn out in force to show their commitment
19 Special section: 25th anniversary Circle of Light Dinner – London
10 Cancer prevention,
The night we celebrated a landmark event in Chai’s history
Professor Peter Sasieni on simple lifestyle changes that can make a difference
24 Lymphoma therapy update
society and you
Genetic advances are revolutionising treatments for blood cancer. Dr Christopher McNamara
12 Let’s talk taboos There’s no need to stay silent about how cancer has affected you – we’re here with advice and understanding
16 Shared benefits
26 Believing in better Chai benefactors Andrew and Orly Wolfson on why they like organisations that disrupt and redefine the status quo
28 The F Factor
New group activities at the flagship centre include guided meditation, and knitting for the novice or the experienced
Catch up on all the activities, talks and events that have helped Chai deliver its services
35 Chai Challenges You! Sign up for an exhilarating 24-hour fundraising adventure in the Lake District
36 You’re amazing! Thanks to everyone for the ingenious ways they raised money for Chai in the past 12 months
39 How you make the difference/ Ways to give How we supported three generations through a cancer diagnosis. Plus, easy ways to donate to Chai
Exercise is indisputably important for our health and wellbeing – Chai can help clients regain their fitness
CHAI CANCER CARE Requests the pleasure of your company at
2016 issue 11
Going the extra mile, WHATEVER IT TAKES
FITNESS and
LIFESTYLE REPORTS
The 2016 Natalie Shipman Memorial Lecture Understanding Cancer’s Complexity – its implications for the future of new drug treatments
Date: Tuesday 6th December 2016 Doors open: 7pm Lecture begins: 7.30pm
Keynote Speaker: Professor Charles Swanton, Professor of Cancer Medicine, University College London Hospitals and Cancer Institute and Senior Group Leader, The Francis Crick Institute
Chai Cancer Care 142-146 Great North Way London NW4 1EH
Chai Cancer Care
Admission free, by ticket only Please call 020 8202 2211 to reserve a place
’s taboos
WITH ● Tackling cancer NORTHWEST NEED IN THE ● MEETING THE MANCHESTER’S
NEW HUB
● The inspirational
story behind
ller Chai’s new best-se
This edition of together is generously sponsored by The Emmes Foundation Editor: Deborah Wald Design: Creative & Commercial © Chai Cancer Care 2016 Cover: Chai’s MAMILs (middle-aged men in lycra) on the London to Paris bike ride. See p37 for the full story
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Chai Cancer Care
AHEAD of the curve
How we approach the care of cancer patients and their families is changing dramatically. As we understand more about the impact of a diagnosis, Chai’s leads the way.
with cancer in the UK and by 2030, that figure will reach at least 4 million.
A complex transition
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ack in the 1970s and for much of the 80s, too, the idea that a person would need help and support to get their life back on track after cancer treatment wasn’t commonplace. Little attention was paid to long-term quality of life issues for the person who survived. It was enough just to have got through it, never mind the continuing impact on the patient or their family. Earlier this year, Macmillan published Cancer: then and now, a report on diagnosis, treatment and aftercare from 1970-2016. There was positive news within: people are now twice as likely to survive at least 10 years after being diagnosed with cancer as they were at the start of the 1970s. More than 170,000 people diagnosed with cancer in the 70s and 80s are alive today. Currently, 2.5 million people are living
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These ‘good’ statistics, and the implications for the future of cancer care detailed in Macmillan’s report, are not news to Chai. We have long been aware that the combination of medical and wellbeing advances, and an ageing population mean that today cancer is often a chronic rather than a terminal condition. But, like Macmillan, we also frequently hear people talk of having ‘fallen off a cliff ’ as they try to adjust to the complex emotional and physical after-effects of cancer treatment. For example, a person living with or beyond cancer may suffer other illnesses, such as diabetes, heart problems or kidney disease. They may experience nerve pain (neuropathy), fatigue, digestive and bowel problems, which result in enduring day-to-day life changes. Even when cancer leaves no permanent physical changes, a person may feel differently about their body. Chai helps clients deal with the impact of the many physical and psychological changes with therapeutic treatments, nutritional advice, physiotherapy, fitness and body image support as well as through our Medical Outpatient Rehabilitation and Palliative Care and Clinic, which opened in 2011.
By Chief Executive Lisa Steele
“Cancer changes relationship dynamics. Our services address the physical and psychological impact of these changes” The shift towards cancer survival does not however mean we are any less focused on supporting those who are facing a less positive outcome, nor less aware of the family members whose lives are also deeply affected – in fact 40% of our clients are not the patient. Cancer changes relationship dynamics as roles are reversed, familiar activities are put on hold and economic pressures build. Our services address the impact of these changes. We provide individual, couples and family counselling, as well as art and music therapy for those who find it difficult to articulate their feelings in a usual counselling setting. A specialist advisor can help clients with form-filling in order to claim benefits, including those that are non-means tested. Chai can also refer clients to agencies that offer practical support or volunteers to help ease everyday pressures: cooking, keeping on top of bills, shopping, picking the children up from school… And if there is a bereavement, Chai
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continues to provide services for as long as they are needed. In its 26 years, since Chai began operating as a telephone information and helpline service, it has pioneered innovative responses. Just one example is our ‘Chai in Schools’ programme, which brings counsellors and therapists into the school environment to support pupils who are affected by a diagnosis in their family. It also gives teachers essential training in how best to deal with and respond to the challenges these youngsters are experiencing. We foresee pressure on this service increasing as, sadly, more young parents are diagnosed. Just one day recently saw 10 children from three families register with us. The expansion of our premises in Manchester could not be more timely and enables us to significantly add to the range and number of services that will be of benefit to clients across the
north-west region. At the same time, our Home Support Service continues to bring vital services to those who are too unwell to come to us or live far from a satellite.
Predicting the need Chai has always strived to stay ahead of the curve and the Macmillan report highlights services we already provide as vital to address the challenges of the
“Chai now provides upwards of 50 different services, across a nationwide network of satellites and hubs” future. For though the the years ahead contain many positive predictions, our infographic, below, illustrates the surge in need going forward. By 2020, we are looking at fulfilling upwards of 20,000
client appointments – with all that implies for the running costs we will have to find. Whatever the developments in cancer care, the one constant that does not change is the impact a diagnosis has on the patient and their family. We need to reach more people and let them know about Chai’s services. We need to overcome any remaining taboos about seeking support – it takes just one phone call or email to access our multi-levelled support. To meet our clients’ many and diverse needs, Chai now provides upwards of 50 different services, across a nationwide network of care hubs and satellites. I am hugely conscious of the task Chai has up ahead and immensely proud of the teams of counsellors and therapists, client services managers, volunteers and medical advisors who are dedicated to delivering these services with such empathy, care and professionalism. ■
NUMBER OF CLIENTS AND APPOINTMENTS OVER THE YEARS Just 10 years ago, Chai was supporting almost 400 clients. That figure will exceed 4,000 in a little over three years. The increase in diagnoses, along with the more complex care needs of clients means an inexorable rise in demand for services, with appointments reaching almost 20,000 by 2020.
2006
2011
Number of active clients to the nearest 100
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2015
2020
Number of appointments to the nearest 100
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THERAPY ROOM FAMILY
Building for the future in Manchester: l-r, Sharie Morrison, office administrator; Johanne Harrison, client service manager, Lewis Harris, physiotherapist
With an expansion of its presence in Manchester, Chai can now give clients across the north-west an unparalleled level of expert support and care. We take a look at the exciting new development
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tatistics can be impersonal things. When one hears the number of people diagnosed with cancer is rising – more than 1000 every day by the end of 2016* – it doesn’t always mean anything… until you, a member of your family, or a friend becomes one of those statistics. The rise in diagnoses is sharply reflected in the need for Chai’s services in the north-west. Since its first satellite in North Manchester in 2009, three more have launched in order to keep pace with demand: in South Manchester in 2010, Liverpool in 2012 and Leeds in 2013. Based in just three rooms in the Heathlands Village in North Manchester,
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and supplemented by home visits, Chai has achieved big and small miracles and now supports more than 340 clients across the region. But that doesn’t tell the full story. Chai’s impact ripples far wider than this core number to a much bigger circle of friends and family. Manchester is the fastest growing community outside London and the need for Chai’s services is increasing every day. The recent refurbishment of the existing site has afforded it the chance to fulfil its ambition to open a purpose-built centre right where it is needed most. It sees a dramatic increase in footage to half an entire floor and gives Chai the space to provide a broader scope of services to many more
*Macmillan, 2015
Chai’s northern POWERHOUSE
FITNE Chai Cancer Care
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people. The mutual respect that exists between Chai and its landlords, The Fed (The Federation of Jewish Services), ensures both organisations retain their distinct identities, independence and most importantly, the confidence of clients using Chai. Chief Executive Lisa Steele explains the thinking behind the expansion. ‘Chai’s reputation for providing a highly professional service delivered from the heart now has the potential to do much more. This will be a place where clients can come to escape the world of medical appointments and treatment, where they will feel safe and supported in a calm and soothing environment, and where everything is focused on their needs.’ Clients can attend for a single appointment, of course, but may take the opportunity to stay on and benefit from other services available: a counselling session, therapeutic treatment or group activity, for example, music or art workshops. Those living further afield in south Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds may
FACILITIES AT CHAI’S MANCHESTER CENTRE WILL NOW INCLUDE: • 3 counselling rooms • 3 therapy rooms • A family counselling room • Fitness suite • Therapy kitchen • Children’s play/art/music therapy room • Group activities room
ESS SUITE Chai Cancer Care
We’re creating a place where clients can come to escape the world of medical appointments and treatment” also decide to book appointments on days when other scheduled activities are taking place. (Volunteers provide transport for anyone needing it.) ‘We know from feedback at the London flagship centre that Chai can be a pivot for the person’s week, providing a positive focus,’ says Lisa. ‘It’s where they can be themselves with no pretence. Meeting, sharing experiences and information, and even laughing with others who have that bond of understanding can be comforting and help to reduce the sense of isolation that one can feel.’ Many of the services that will roll out are in response to client requests. So as well as more rooms for individual and family counselling, there will be space for therapeutic groups including BRCA, Breast Buddies, Prostate, bereavement and carers support. Physical activities such as gentle movement, Pilates, yoga, and a fully-equipped gym, will be offered. To address the dramatic rise in young parents being diagnosed with cancer, priority has been given to an area for creative therapies – art, music,
play – which are so vital in helping children and young adults work through their feelings. While their child is in their session, the parent can have counselling, a complementary therapy, or simply relax. And to help clients adjust to changed eating patterns, a nutritionist will host oneto-one and group nutritional advice sessions in a new therapy kitchen. Of course, the realisation of this ‘northern powerhouse of care’ comes at a price – the running costs are £450,000 a year – all dependent on donations. The Manchester ‘Circle of Light’ dinner held in June went some way to covering the first year’s costs (see p8 for the evening’s highlights). Johanne Harrison, who has been Manchester’s client services manager for six years says, ‘Our hope is that our new presence will encourage more people to seek us out. We want to raise awareness and word of mouth is very successful in doing that. As a result of the Manchester dinner in June, more clients have come forward and have started using our services. This is an exciting move for Chai – and it’s a privilege to be able to make a bigger difference to the lives of all those who need us.’ ■
It’s a privilege to be able to make a bigger difference to the lives of all those who need us”
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Michelle & David Haffner
Michael & Jacky Edelson
Carol, Maxine & Stuart Marks Jacky & Anthony Lyons
David & Michelle Rothburn
David & Julia Eventhall, Robert & Sally Levy
Andrew & Michelle Kingsley
Sally & Michael Cohen
Susan & Andrew Terry
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Pamela & Brian Samuels
Richard & Michelle Deacon
Sue & Neville Johnson
Gilly & Max Moryoussef
Karen Phillips & Lynne Attias
Marion & Alan Dobkin
Danny & Noemie Lopian
Robert & Lecia Simon
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Manchester
THE CIRCLE OF LIGHT DINNER and innovative services to deal with long-term complexities, and offer vital support to the families of young parents diagnosed with cancer. Thanking the table hosts for achieving a capacity-filled room, Louise reminded guests that Chai’s services are funded entirely by donations and paid tribute to the generosity, enthusiasm and support of Gabrielle and Mark Adlestone, and The Fed, in helping this vital project come to fruition.
After watching a hugely moving film testimony from two Manchester-born Chai clients, Elliot and Tara, guests In his welcome speech, Stuart Marks pledged an astonishing £275,000 described Chai as the ‘northern towards the centre’s £450,000 annual powerhouse of cancer care,’ adding, ‘We need to ensure that we give all those running costs. Two former Chai Manchester clients, Jane Mechlowitz affected by a cancer diagnosis and their and Michal Mocton gave the vote families a place to go here in our city of thanks and guests enjoyed some that will match everything that gives dazzling big band entertainment. ■ Chai in London its global reputation as the leader in supportive cancer care.’ The new hub will provide expanded
Eli & Estee Pine
Andrew & Karen Chaytow
Chai Cancer Care
Amanda Adshead, Michal Mocton, Jane Mechlowitz, Lisa Steele, LisaCohen -Binder, Louise Hager, Clare Spieler
Daliah and David Mechlowitz
Reba & Bernard Tury
Tania & Leonard Seitler
Geoff & Marcelle Kuhillow
Andrew Sciama, Phil Hodari, Jack Shalom, Anthony Davis
Mark & Gabrielle Adlestone
Photography: Rob Clayton
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he reason was the launch of the new Chai Cancer Care centre in North Manchester: the occasion in June, a fundraising dinner, only the second in Manchester in five years. Speaking to 470 guests at the Hilton, Deansgate, Louise Hager recalled that when Chai answered the community’s call for its cancer support services in 2009, there were just seven clients. Currently, more than 340 cancer patients and their loved ones are benefitting from their services and with satellites in south Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool, it continues to respond to the region’s growing need.
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Cancer prevention, society and you Unless society takes some radical measures, 50% of us will get cancer. Even for a ‘glass half full’ person, that’s a sobering statistic. But it’s within our power to change the odds, says Professor Peter Sasieni
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heoretically, we could prevent nearly two-thirds of all cancers. A realistic challenge would be to prevent one-third by 2035 – that would mean over 100,000 fewer people getting cancer each year in the UK.
Peter Sasieni is Professor of Biostatistics and Cancer Epidemiology in the Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine at Queen Mary University of London. He is Director of the Cancer Research UK funded Cancer Prevention Trials Unit, and Vice Director of the Department of Health’s Policy Research Unit in Cancer Awareness, Screening and Early Diagnosis. Professor Sasieni’s research encompasses both cancer screening and prevention (with particular interest in cervical cancer), as well as the design and analysis of clinical trials. He has contributed to more than 200 scientific publications and sits on a number of advisory and grant award committees.
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Cancer prevention takes place at three levels: society needs to change the social and economic factors that affect lifestyles; individuals need to adopt healthy behaviours; and safe clinical interventions need to be offered to those at greatest risk. Many people assume that we can only prevent cancers that are linked to modifiable behavioural and environmental factors, but there is much that can be done medically, even for those with a genetic predisposition to cancer.
HELP FOR SMOKERS Tobacco smoking is the most important risk factor for cancer, responsible for more than 60,000 UK cancers each year (19.4% of all cancers). It is not enough to simply tell smokers they should stop. Society needs to help prevent teenagers from starting and to offer support to adults to quit. Increased pricing (through taxation) has been extremely effective
over the years in reducing consumption. Banning advertising, particularly those which are aimed at children, is both morally right and an effective measure. Outlawing smoking in enclosed public spaces and standardised tobacco packaging legislation also play a role in changing attitudes so that smoking is no longer viewed as socially acceptable. Tobacco control also means supporting individuals who want to quit. There have been great advances in both the advice and psychological strategies and the pharmacological options (e.g. nicotine patches) offered by stop-smoking services and these significantly increase the likelihood of quitting. Electronic or e-cigarettes offer a revolutionary approach that may have a dramatic impact on cancer risk. Although controversial, e-cigarettes are undoubtedly much safer than tobacco smoking. Many smokers find it easier to switch to vaping (e-cigarettes) than quitting, and the introduction of e-cigarettes has not led to more children lighting up. E-cigarettes could have a major role to play in preventing many of the 60,000 cancers currently caused by smoking.
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HEALTHY – THE DEFAULT CHOICE Other behavioural factors important in the prevention of cancer include poor diet (accounting for 9.4% of all cancers in the UK); being overweight and obesity (5.5%); alcohol (4.0%) and lack of exercise (1.0%). As with smoking, more needs to be done, both by society to encourage individuals to default to healthy choices and by each person to take responsibility for their own behaviours. Schools can provide children with healthy food and make it difficult to buy unhealthy options. Similarly, more should be done in our communities to consider what we eat and drink at social occasions. The new sugar tax to be introduced in the UK is welcome, but it will only work if there is a price differential between taxed and un-taxed products.
“More needs to be done to encourage individuals to default to healthy choices” In case you are wondering what constitutes a healthy diet (for cancer prevention), you should have at least five portions of vegetables and fruit each day; avoid red and particularly processed meat; eat plenty of fibre; and reduce your salt intake.
Chai Cancer Care
If you don’t already exercise, taking half an hour of moderate exercise at least five times per week could reduce your risk of bowel cancer by 25%.
VACCINATION GAINS Clinical interventions to prevent cancer may either be offered to the whole population or targeted at particular high-risk groups. The most successful population intervention is the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. HPV is an extremely common infection that occasionally causes cervical cancer (and certain other cancers too). Vaccination against the two most important cancer-causing strains of HPV is already offered to 12- to13-year-old girls and a new vaccine that prevents an additional five strains of the virus has been licensed. These safe, effective, vaccines could almost eliminate cancers of the cervix, anus, and tonsils. It is unfortunate that in some circles there is poor uptake of the vaccine and this could lead to avoidable cases of cervical cancer in the future.
SIMPLE AND SURGICAL OPTIONS Aspirin could have a substantial impact on preventing cancer. Someone aged 50 could reduce their risk of cancer by about 5% by taking a mini-aspirin daily for 15, years with minimal sideeffects. Continuing after the age
of 65 might prevent up to 9% of cancers, though it would be associated with a greater risk of serious side-effects. Other drugs (e.g. tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors) reduce the risk of breast cancer by 30-50%, but are associated with side-effects so are only recommended for women at elevated risk. Finally, surgery can be used to prevent cancer in those at extreme risk. Following the experience of Angelina Jolie, there is greater awareness of the use of mastectomy (breast removal) and oophorectomy (ovary removal) in women with genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations which are more common in Ashkenazi women) for breast and ovarian cancer. Major surgery is also used in individuals with a certain genetic condition that puts them at extremely high risk of bowel cancer. The more common use of ‘surgery’ is to remove pre-cancers found on either cervical or bowel screening. In both cases this can usually be done as an out-patient procedure without a general anaesthetic and is extremely effective. Cervical screening has been attributed with preventing 80% of cervical cancers in regular attendees and the bowel scope screening could have a similarly dramatic impact on cancers in the lower part of the bowel. ■
The next leap forward: take responsibility • Eat healthily and undertake moderate exercise several times a week • Try to maintain a healthy weight • If you smoke, try vaping instead • Encourage your daughters to get vaccinated against HPV • Take advantage of bowel scope and cervical screening • Seek professional advice if you have a strong family history of cancer • Discuss taking aspirin with your GP
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T While cancer may no longer be life limiting, it can be life changing. The side effects of cancer can be difficult to cope with, let alone talk about. Both the patient and their family can break the silence, with support from Chai
here are a lot of elephants in the room for a person with a cancer diagnosis, as well as for their loved ones. Sometimes a subject is so sensitive it is very difficult to raise. Or it may seem trivial compared to cancer itself. Family members may feel guilty – and stay silent, therefore – about their own anxieties. After all, they’re not the one with cancer. ‘Patients mostly want to be asked about their possible concerns rather than bring them up themselves,’ says Dr Rachel Craig, Consultant in Palliative Care Medicine who runs the Chai Medical Outpatient Rehabilitation and Palliative Care Service in collaboration with the Royal Free Hospital and Marie Curie Hospice. Many of the taboos for both men and women relate to body image, caused by the physical and psychological impact of surgery and treatment. ‘These changes can make a person feel a great sense of loss and disorientation as their notion of themselves alters,’ explains Rachel. ‘It’s important to ask questions and to accept how difficult it is for the patient. Living with cancer, or after treatment, is not the same as living prior to a diagnosis and people need help to find their “new normality”. Chai offers a space for these taboo conversations to take place.’
LET’S TALK
taboos
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HAIR LOSS Not all chemotherapy treatment (or radiotherapy) causes hair loss but where it does, the sight of excessive amounts of hair on the pillow or in the shower can be shocking, sometimes more so than the cancer, surgery or treatment. ‘Our confidence is closely linked to how we look. Hair loss is a very visual sign of having cancer and compounds how emotionally exposed one feels,’ says Chai hairdressing consultant Simon Barker from Hair on Broadway in North West London. He sees clients at the Image Resource Room at Hendon. The patient’s own chemotherapy nurse, along with a Chai counsellor and image consultant, can give clients psychological support and practical ways to deal with hair loss. One option is to cut the hair very short before treatment, or to wear a soft hat in bed to collect falling hair. Telling children what’s happening prepares them for the changes, too, and lessens their bewilderment. ‘Many women will opt for a wig and/or scarves during hair loss, but everyone’s response is personal,’ says Simon. ‘One client shaved it all off and wore nothing. Her attitude was, “I’m going to decide whether and when I have hair or not.” It gave her back some control.’
Nursing specialists within an oncology team help the patient to understand the process of surgery and to navigate decisions about reconstructive surgery. This includes seeing photos of a mastectomy with and without reconstruction, handling implants and considering using their own body tissue (taken from the lower abdomen, back or ‘love handles’) for the reconstruction. Jo feels there are psychological advantages to reconstructing the breast at the time of surgery ‘because it offers continuity – you go to sleep with your breast and you wake up with a new one.’ For some women, however, this is not always appropriate or possible, and their adjustment after surgery will take a different path. Less often acknowledged is breast cancer in men who are also confronted with the consequences of an altered body. Chai supports every client through the changes they are experiencing: relationship counselling helps individuals and couples discuss body image, emotional and intimacy issues; there is a bra-fitting service; manual lymphatic drainage can help manage the impact of lymphoedema (swelling) after surgery; the BRCA Support Group gives those at high
risk of developing breast cancer an opportunity to discuss their dilemmas; and Breast Buddies lets clients at any stage of breast cancer share their feelings and experiences in a counsellor-led group.
Living with cancer, or after treatment is not the same as living prior to a diagnosis and people need help to find their ‘new normality’”
BREAST SURGERY AND MASTECTOMY The reasons for breast surgery include not only being diagnosed with cancer, but also preventative measures against it occurring. ‘No woman wants to hear that she needs breast surgery. It can make you feel you are losing part of your womanhood,’ acknowledges Jo Franks, consultant breast and oncoplastic surgeon and Chai medical patron. ‘You need time to take stock but the diagnosis, treatment and post-surgery decisions all seem to come at once.’
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STOMAS Some types of cancer surgery – located low in the bowel or in the rectum – may result in the need for a stoma. This is a surgical opening, attached to an external bag that collects faecal and/or urinary matter. The bag is fitted immediately post-surgery and the patient empties it regularly, so it’s a fast learning curve. ‘It’s not easy discussing the implications of a stoma so every colorectal cancer team has specialist nurses who give practical support to help patients overcome their problems,’ says Daren Francis, Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon and Chai medical patron. Patient fears might include whether the bag is showing under clothes, taking part in sport, intercourse, dietary issues and whether it will leak or smell [many products protect against this]. Stoma nurse Sharon Ferdenzi has more than 30 years’ experience in the colorectal nursing field: ‘Especially for those who didn’t feel ill, or who are young, it can be harder to accept, even though the bag has saved their life. It is challenging. But – and this is the crux – there is nothing a stoma is going to stop you from doing. Getting back to normal life activities is important. I encourage people to not put their life on hold for too long,’ says Sharon. At whatever point a client chooses to come, Chai is able to provide practical advice to deal with the physical
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The more people can have honest conversations, the more they will get the advice they need” consequences of a stoma, as well as counselling support, which allows clients to express their feelings and find new ways to manage their altered circumstances.
INCONTINENCE When cancer treatment affects the pelvic area, incontinence may be a permanent after effect. ‘The bladder is a muscle and its role can be disturbed by surgery and radiotherapy. Nerve endings may be damaged, compromising muscle power while internal scar tissue can affect the function of the bowel, colon and rectum,’ explains Chai’s Gonda Lewis, who with Graham Silas, provides physiotherapy and incontinence expertise for both female and male clients. The trauma of incontinence can cause acute social and relationship issues, sometimes inhibiting sexual function, too. Worrying about needing the toilet can be overwhelming. The non-judgemental environment of Chai encourages people to seek help for their situation. ‘The more people can have honest conversations, and not shy away, the more they will get the advice they need,’ says Gonda. While this is generally easier for women, it comes as a huge relief for men to be able to talk in confidence to someone. ‘Men are often unaware they have a pelvic floor,’ adds Graham. ‘I help them
identify these muscles to start engaging them.’ Psychological techniques, such as relaxation and distraction are taught, too. ‘We aim to find solutions that fit into a person’s lifestyle, so they feel physically comfortable to carry on with their lives.’
INTIMACY ‘Any kind of cancer, and not just that in the prostate, testicles, breast or ovaries, can have an enormous psychological effect on sexual function,’ says Charlotte Simpson, couples counsellor and psychosexual therapist at Chai. ‘We need to acknowledge the losses taking place and how people may feel vulnerable in their relationships. For instance, to have been the breadwinner in the family and now be the sick person is a significant shift in roles. There may be guilt over a diminished physical relationship; fear of causing pain – even from a simple hug; and distress at the impact of these changes.’ Uptake of this specialised service at Chai is evidence of just how important the issue is. ‘When you give people a forum to talk about these things, the relief is palpable and anxiety is lifted. Working with a couple can help resolve relationship worries and discuss new ways to build intimacy. By starting to accept what has happened, people are able to feel positive about their body again,’ says Charlotte. She can also direct clients toward practical solutions. For instance, GPs can prescribe medication and aids for men and women to manage the problems they encounter after surgery and treatment.
PROSTATE CANCER Life after surgery and treatment for prostate cancer leaves many men contending with a host of life changes, among them sexual function, incontinence and infertility. These are challenging issues that can cause deep
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Together Magazine 2016
anguish, fear and embarrassment, often compounded by their reluctance to open up about such sensitive topics. Chai counsellors can help clients express their feelings and aid candid conversations with partners. ‘It’s stifling to hold back these worries,’ says Charlotte Simpson. ‘Talking allows a positive shift to happen.’ Alongside, building up physical confidence through physiotherapy and exercise sessions or dietary advice, can be a powerful way to re-establish and improve a person’s self-image.
remission, it is often in the background,’ she continues. ‘It can feel like there is a maze of “unspokens” going on in the head of each person affected. These fears and questions can be eased with expert support.’ In addition, some people may have religious or spiritual concerns. Chai can put them in touch with Rabbis who are particularly sensitive to clients’ needs at this difficult time. It is particularly tough when young children are affected, although they are
DEATH People might think about mortality in abstract terms, but grappling with the real prospect of death is quite different. ‘Counsellors at Chai can facilitate these very sensitive and painful conversations, whether for an individual or between loved ones,’ says Chai’s Chief Executive Lisa Steele. ‘Not everyone wants to talk, however, and we are always guided by the client’s wishes. Even if death is not imminent, say, when a person is in
Chai Cancer Care
It can feel like there is a maze of ‘unspokens’ going on the head of each person affected”
often more straightforward than adults, says Lisa. ‘They’ll ask, “Is Mummy/ Daddy going to die?” We advise parents to tell their children at an appropriate time, in language they can understand. It can free the parent to view events in a more open way.’ A response to talking might be to create a ‘memory box’ of photos, objects, recordings and letters: precious keepsakes for the child’s future. ‘It takes courage,’ says Lisa, ‘but within a safe framework, this becomes a positive act for everyone involved.’ Chai’s support extends across the age groups with counselling for families, adults and teenagers, and art and music therapy for children. ‘Giving space for the expression of feelings is cathartic,’ says Lisa. ‘A person can share their wishes and hopes for those who remain, so comfort and reassurance can be shared between them all. However painful this is to do at the time, many people gain peace of mind knowing they have been able to say the things they wanted to.’ ■
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Chai Cancer Care
Shared benefits A new skill, a stress release, the support of others who understand… Chai’s new meditation and knitting groups offer all this and more
I
f proof were needed of the value of Chai’s group activities, the five launched this year are it! As well as those featured here, Israeli dancing, table tennis and pet therapy are now offered. Chief Executive Lisa Steele says, ‘We know how much our clients benefit from Chai’s caring atmosphere and in an unpressurised group setting they can access that warmth and find new sources of enjoyment, when other areas of life are tough. The group becomes an informal but valuable part of a person’s support system.’
Knitting On Tuesday mornings, the knitting group gathers in the garden room at the flagship centre. After seeing the creative output of the jewellery and ceramic groups at a Chai sale, volunteer Norma Ellis was inspired to suggest the idea. ‘I learned to knit at my grandmother’s knee and I know how rewarding it has been for me.’ The group includes dyed-in-the-wool knitters as well as novices. Joyce is the latter: ‘I wish I’d known how to knit before I had cancer – it would have given me something
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Meditation I
Shelley Bloom
n group meditation at Chai, Shelley Bloom helps clients find calm amid their stress and confusion. ‘When you’re having treatment and you feel your body has been given over to science, there’s a loss of control. Meditation helps rebuild a connection to yourself,’ she says.
In verbally guided sessions, Shelley uses ancient nonreligious meditation practices, presenting breathing techniques, positive affirmations and visualisations. ‘It’s not so much about emptying the mind as being able to let thoughts pass through it without impacting it,’ she explains. ‘Minds have a habit of running to the past, were we may ruminate about what we could have done differently in life. And they run to the future, towards anxiety and worry.’ With the aim of ‘living in the moment’, Shelley starts by taking clients through a breathing exercise. ‘The out breath always is longer because it helps release carbon dioxide, the less healthy part of the breath process. Exhaling, for someone who is locked in anxiety, can be very difficult, so helping clients to focus on it is very valuable.’ During a visualisation Shelley might ask the group to imagine a container and to put in it anything that feels heavy and burdensome to them, and then place the box outside the room. ‘I tell them they can pick up the box with whatever is in it, as they leave. The process helps people relieve themselves of some of the strains they are carrying.’ Client Sandra, says ‘Shelley creates a wonderfully encouraging environment, which allows everyone to develop at their own pace,’ while newcomer Julia adds: ‘It helps me not just through the day, but the whole week.’ ■
to do while lying in bed after surgery. It’s so good for stress. Having a focus helps take your mind off yourself – and Norma is so very patient.’ While Norma and fellow volunteer Andrea Goodmaker instruct, there’s tea, chat and an informal group therapy aspect as clients exchange information about their
experiences. Now Norma has given the group the collective goal of making knitted goodies for the next Chai Society Gift Sale. Says Joyce, ‘It’s letting me share my new skill and give something back. To be able to make something with my hands that supports Chai, is just fantastic!’ ■
For more information, please call Jo Awad on 020 8457 Together 3396 2016
Together Magazine 2016
Pet therapy
Meet Mr Schnitz, Chai’s four-legged volunteer, who is giving clients a new way to improve their wellbeing
A furry friend: Mr Schnitz, Chai’s first pet therapy dog
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nimal lovers know how good having a pet around makes them feel. Now academic research is proving the therapeutic benefits for those who are not well, too. ‘Studies show that spending time with a pet can help reduce recovery time after surgery, lessen pain, lower stress levels, improve mood and make people feel less isolated – all factors that impact someone affected by a cancer diagnosis,’ says Chief Executive, Lisa Steele. ‘Pet therapy is something we have wanted to provide for a long time and with the Pets As Therapy (PAT) charity helping us, we’ve got the correct process in place.’ The group setting encourages adults and children to interact and share their stories in a non-threatening calming environment. Chair of PAT, Anne Cliverd, explains how a dog is assessed as suitable for the work. ‘We health-check the dog and we go on
Chai Cancer Care
a walkabout to make sure they are calm, follow commands, are good with people, not given to excitable reactions, and don’t snatch food, bite or lick.
“Clients come by after their treatment session and spend time with Mr Schnitz. His cuddly presence gets people talking about anything but cancer” A volunteer dog also has to be patient, enjoy being patted, often vigorously, by patients or clients and not be overly fussed about being handled by many strangers.’ PAT is well-versed in selecting their canine volunteers, having upwards of 5,000 animals on their nationwide books. Clearly Mr Schnitz is up to the job. His handler, Neil Samuels, was a Chai
client, along with his family, when, in 2012, son Alex was diagnosed at the age of 22, with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Now Neil is a volunteer. ‘Clients come by after their treatment or therapy session and spend time with Mr Schnitz – his cuddly, friendly, non-judgemental presence gets people talking to each other; about him, or other things, anything in fact but cancer. Everything Chai does is there to help you feel normal again, that you’re not out there on your own. Mr Schnitz is now part of the process – he enjoys it and he makes people happy, too,’ says Neil. So approachable is Mr Shnitz, that he’s even helping a client who was scared of dogs, to overcome his phobia. A collective positive experience, emotional connections among peers and the simple act of touch are some of the greatest rewards a PAT dog visit brings and more canine Chai volunteers are in training now. Says Ann Cliverd, ‘The animal makes no demands on you: no questions about how you are, no comments about you being so brave. The experience helps take away the stigma a person may feel. They just look at you with love.’ Elena who has had cancer treatment, and her son Sean recognise all these benefits: ‘Spending time with Mr Schnitz has become a wonderful highlight in our week – he calms, relaxes and comforts us. When he’s around, the focus shifts away from everything we’ve been through. Everyone who meets him comes away feeling more positive.’ ■ For more information, please call Debra Clifton on 020 8457 2074
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Chai Cancer Care
A PLATEFUL CHAI’S OF LOVE Plateful of Colin Lehmann was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January 2015, aged 59. He died just 13 months later. In that period, his wife Laura began treatment for a rare form of lymphoma. Yet amid all this upheaval, Laura’s sister Claire, daughter Tamar and friends Louise Gluckstein and Nikki Epstein were inspired to create a cookbook to raise money for Chai – as a tribute to Colin and to reflect the idea that cooking for others is a gesture of love AN IDEA TAKES SHAPE LAURA: I spoke with my sister Claire every day when Colin was ill and much of our conversation was about whether or what he could eat that day. Colin loved food so it was very distressing when he could no longer appreciate it. When things are tough, finding pleasure in something simple – a bowl of soup – is such an achievement. Each meal was about bringing some joy into Colin’s life. You can’t make it all better, but you can make it better for a moment. The book symbolises the idea of giving, which is so central to Jewish life. CLAIRE: I went to see Chai in July 2015 with this hair-brained idea of mine, saying, ‘Look, you don’t know me but I’d 18 Chai Cancer Care
love cooking for friends
like to do a cookbook for you.’ I walked out of the meeting with this mammoth project on my hands! Having previously worked as a nutritionist, I knew there were many books on food and cancer, but I realised how powerless we feel when we cannot provide food for the people we love. Equally, how good we feel when we can share our love for dear ones through food.
we gathered in the recipes, across the generations and across all cuisines – Indian and Israeli to Peruvian and Polish. Some have been passed down through a family, others adapted from contemporary chefs and a note from the contributor accompanies each one, straight from the heart. Louise did a lot of the recipe testing, and much of the photography – on her phone! We certainly couldn’t afford photographers or food stylists.
FROM FACEBOOK AND PHONE TO FINAL PRODUCT
TAMAR: I looked after fundraising and discussed sponsorship ideas with Dad while he was in hospital. A small bequest from The Lehmann Charitable Trust, of which Dad was a trustee, took care of the printing and each person whose recipe was featured gave a £25 donation, which
CLAIRE: Our small committee included close friends, Nikki Epstein and Louise Gluckstein, my niece Tamar and our designer Jemma Harrison. Gradually
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covered our other costs. It means every penny from sales goes directly to Chai. Jemma, our amazing designer, responded to a post I put out on Facebook. Fresh out of art college, she put her heart and soul into it – for free – and has given the book a lovely timeless feel. Hopefully it will sell for years!
ABOUT COLIN… LAURA: Colin and I met on a UJIA singles ‘mission’ to Israel in 1990. He was an incredibly generous man and an amazing father. I rarely did a night feed for our children Tamar and Daniel because that was his special time with them and it allowed me to rest. His dedication to the community and charities was incredible and far wider than we all imagined. We never knew, for instance, that he was supporting some schools in Stamford Hill until several rabbanim came to his funeral. Colin’s favourite recipe in the book was the Divine Marble Cake. Our friend Danielle Ashton was making it even before we married. It was one of the few things Colin was still able to eat and there are many lovely occasions associated with it. TAMAR: Dad was one of life’s givers and made everyone feel important. To friends, family, clients, colleagues, to the community and even the doctors and nurses, he was generous with his time and advice. All he ever wanted was to guide me to my own happiness. His goal was to stay around long enough for my graduation, and he did – it was a wonderful day.
used Chai’s services and I will do so again when my current treatment finishes.
TAMAR: Dad insisted on attending the 2015 Chai dinner, saying ‘If you can’t support charities like Chai when you need them the most, who will?’ It was difficult to be upset in front of my parents. Chai has given me the space to think, talk and cry. They have listened and helped me try to cope with the unthinkable…not something I envisaged I’d be doing at the age of 22.
A TRIBUTE AND A LEGACY TAMAR: Dad never saw a physical copy of the book, but I showed him a PDF version. By then he was in hospital and knew he wouldn’t come out. He was so impressed and he’d be prouder still that more than 1500 people now own the book and have supported Chai in the process. It’s a special family legacy and ensures Dad’s memory lives on, as we continue his example, by giving to others through Chai’s Plateful of Love. LAURA: I now try to find something positive, however small, to focus on. I’m thrilled at the response to the book and am so proud of my sister and all the contributors. I’m looking forward to cooking from it – with my own illness, I’ve missed that so much.
CHAI – A PLACE TO TURN
CLAIRE: The launch in May was incredibly moving. There was the sadness of what has happened – our world thrown upside down, but there’s this new ‘baby’ that’s come to life, because of someone we loved. It gave us a focus other than the illness while we worked on the book and now holds happy memories for everyone involved.
LAURA: Colin and I already supported Chai but when you encounter a charity for a personal reason, it makes you even more passionate about it. Claire and I have both
Chai’s Plateful of Love – Cooking for Friends, £20 (to collect from the flagship centre), or £23 (to include P&P). Order online at tinyurl.com/h4efdcw
Chai Cancer Care
Maureen Lipman CBE Sir Michael & Lady Heller Stephen Rubin OBE & Angela Rubin
Karen & Jeremy Hertzog
Claudia and Robert Salem
Bianca & Stuart Roden
Loren & Trevor Berkowitz
Lord & Lady Young Sian & Julian Levy
Top: Alexandra Maurice, Emma Byre, Jenny Silverman, Amanda Kessler, Abi Reiss, Sarah Burns
Michael & Jenny Ghatan
Frances Berman & Rochelle Wolfson
Jason & Claire Leek
Steven & Danielle King, Lisa Steele, Justine & Andrew Lever
Lord & Lady Kalms
CIRC OF L
Rabbi Joseph Dweck and choir celebrating Chanukah
Chai has achieved extraordinary things in its first 25 years and last December, 800 guests gathered to recognize this milestone and pledge their continued support. London’s spectacular Roundhouse theatre, bathed in purple and pink Chai colours, mirrored superbly the ‘Circle of Light’ theme and proved a breath-taking backdrop for the event.
Fabiana & Miguel Abadi
Louise Hager paid tribute to Chai’s founders Frances Winegarten z’l and Susan Zuckerbrod, its medical and lay advisors, trustees, staff, fundraisers and volunteers. Reflecting on Chai’s purpose, she said, ‘there is no point talking about the light at the end of the tunnel. Our mission is to light the tunnel itself, and to give individuals the strength and tools they so need.’
Gary & Linda Laurence Susan & Stephen James Michael & Robyn Stein
Philip Weinstein, Issy & Susan Zuckerbrod, Louise Hager, Lorraine Weinstein
CLE IGHT
Gerald Ronson CBE & Dame Gail Ronson
This message was vividly illustrated on film by two of Chai’s clients Elliot, from London and Tara in Manchester, who spoke unflinchingly about their cancer experiences and Chai’s all-embracing family support. Welcoming everyone, Ronnie Harris described Chai as ‘an essential community resource.’ And hearing it receives no statutory funding, the guests responded emphatically, donating £1.2m. The emotional and uplifting evening opened with an enthusiastic performance from a choir of pupils drawn from four schools, where the ‘Chai in Schools’ service is supporting children affected by a cancer diagnosis in their family, and concluded with an upbeat set from TVs BGT finalists, Jack Pack. ■
Shoshana Manning, Gillian & Irving Carter, Susie Segal
Nick & Maxine Leslau
Mark Astaire & Fiorella Massey Michael & Robyn Stein Gabrielle & Steven Sharpe
Sharon & Jonathan Goldstein
Carol, Nick & Rachel Sopher
Karen & Peter Goodkind
Benita, David & Jo Fogel
Loretta & Ronnie Harris
Emma & Marc Samuels
Graham Edwards, Joan LipkinEdwards, Georgina Black
Andrew & Danielle Rubin
Simone & Brian Brick Pat Rosenfield & Lennie Lass
Natalie & David Tahan
Michael & Jacqueline Meller
Naomi & Andrew Fisch
Albert & Lynda Hay
Melanie & Edward Rom
Blake Ezra Photography
Gavriel & Yael Green, Sara & Henry Last
Chai Cancer Care
Lymphoma therapy update We know more than ever about how cancer of the blood behaves and which treatments will produce the best outcomes. Consultant haematologist Christopher McNamara looks ahead to future developments Dr Christopher McNamara is a consultant haematologist in the lymphoma service at University College London Hospital. He completed post-graduate training in Australia and France before appointment as consultant haematologist at the Royal Free, London in 2004. He moved to UCLH in 2015. His interests are clinical trials, radioimmunotherapy and the interface between the laboratory and lymphoma patients. He has served on several guideline development groups for the European Society of Medical Oncology, the British Council for Standardisation in Haematology and for the national Institute for Clinical Health and Excellence, where he served as clinical lead for the national lymphoma guideline.
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ymphoma is the most common type of blood cancer affecting people in the UK. There are many different types of lymphoma but they all generally occur when a certain type of blood cell no longer obeys the normal control signals that govern the growth of cells and tissues of the body. The diseased cells or lymphocytes aggregate together and typically spread through vessels connecting lymph nodes. A significant amount of research work has been done to understand the differences between the different types of lymphoma. This work, culminating in a classification system adopted by the World Health Organisation, has made important advances in the way in which lymphoma research is carried out and in the way in which people who suffer from lymphoma are treated. Increasingly, lymphomas are categorised according to molecular and genetic changes within the abnormal lymphoma cells. These genetic changes influence the way in which the cancer cells multiply and often how they will
respond to treatment. Understanding these genetic changes has already led to significant improvements in the treatments available for lymphoma patients and is likely to radically reform further these approaches in the future.
“Understanding genetic changes has already led to significant improvements in the treatments available� GENES HOLD THE KEY Many people are surprised when they hear that the laboratory is the first and perhaps most important step in the journey that a lymphoma patient will begin. The reason for that is that an accurate diagnosis is critical for obtaining the best outcome for a patient; the treatments used, as mentioned, frequently differ according to which lymphoma subtype a person has. It is, therefore, essential that material from a biopsy be looked at
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Together Magazine 2016
by an expert pathology doctor. In the future it is likely that genetic changes within the first biopsy sample will be used for all patients to direct which treatment should be given, even within the same lymphoma subtype. In other words, patients with the same lymphoma subtype will be treated differently, according to the molecular changes in their lymphoma.
CHEMO AND CHEMO-FREE THERAPY Importantly, the outcome for lymphoma patients has been improving in recent times. Twenty years ago there was concern that, in spite of the availability of effective treatments, the overall survival for lymphoma patients was not improving. That has now changed. With effective combinations and information gleaned from properly conducted clinical trials, effective therapies that are given to people with lymphoma today have shown unequivocally that outcomes have improved compared with treatments used as recently 20 years ago. There is a range of different treatments available to patients in the UK. Chemotherapy remains an effective and generally well-tolerated treatment for most people. However, it is also fair to say that there is increasing interest in ‘chemotherapy-free’ based approaches to managing lymphoma. Frequently, people affected by lymphoma have other medical problems, which preclude intensive treatment or they’re present at a point in their lymphoma journey where they are significantly debilitated and de-conditioned by the lymphoma itself. This makes
Chai Cancer Care
the administration of chemotherapy sometimes difficult. In addition, we know from longitudinal studies that many patients who complete chemotherapy are affected by long-term physical, psychological and emotional problems that are most likely due to their chemotherapy.
“Treatments by mouth generally don’t require admission to hospital and are very well tolerated” Many centres around the world are interested in this ‘chemotherapy-free’ strategy whereby new drugs other than chemotherapy are used to induce a response. A new immunotherapy involving antibodies directed at special markers on the surface of cancer cells called antigens is already in clinical practice and thousands of patients have benefited from this and lives have certainly been saved as a consequence. The clinic has also seen the development of new medicines, which inhibit signalling inside cancer cells. These medications have changed the landscape in some lymphoma subtypes and are likely to have a significant impact upon lymphoma therapy in the future. These treatments can be taken by mouth, generally don’t require admission to hospital and are very well tolerated. They work by penetrating the lymphoma cell and turning off the machinery that the cell needs to survive and prosper.
One of the advantages of these medications is that they typically don’t bring with them many of the chemotherapy-related side effects. Nausea, vomiting and hair loss are not common from these drugs and they often produce very good results, even in patients who have previously failed to respond to chemotherapy. It is important that ongoing research is carried out to define the longer-term safety and effectiveness of these agents, but preliminary studies are very exciting. There remains a strong desire to continue to improve the outlook for people and families not only affected by lymphoma but also to try and reduce the short- and long-term side effects of therapy. Clinical trials that are currently underway are likely to contribute to the answer to this question. ■
The next leap forward: refining treatments • Molecular differences in their lymphoma subtype will mean patients with the same type of cancer will receive different treatments • Oral treatments will become more common • Advances in treatments will mean patients won’t need to be hospitalised
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Chai Cancer Care
The potential to transform lives is a defining factor in the causes that attract Andrew and Orly Wolfson. It’s why Chai’s innovative approach to cancer support means so much to them
O
ne of the joys Andrew Wolfson has discovered in his 40s, is the breadth of Jewish festivals. ‘I was very much a Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur Jew,’ he says. Born into one of this country’s most philanthropic dynasties, the Wolfson family’s bequests benefit countless British, Jewish and Israeli causes and institutions. His very orthodox great-grandfather was Solomon Wolfson, a cabinet-maker who grew up in the Gorbals in Glasgow; his great uncle Isaac re-shaped retail as head of Great Universal Stores. His father, David was Next’s chairman during the 90s (a role now held by his brother Simon) and both are Tory peers. Andrew ‘probably didn’t do what was expected’ and his career took him not into big retail but niche investment. As MD of Pembroke VCT, his portfolio of brands include restaurants Five Guys and Chucs, fashion designers Bella Freud and ME+EM, and digital media businesses Boat International and Rated People. A largely secular upbringing took him to Radley College boarding school during term time, and to the country at weekends. Now, through his children, Lily 8 and Charles 7, who attend a Jewish primary school, he and his Dutch-born wife Orly, 39, delight in
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being a part of Jewish community life that neither was exposed to as a child. ‘We get Simchat Torah and Shavuot – which I didn’t know about as a child,’ says Andrew, 47. ‘Moving from Hyde Park to Belsize Park and then Finchley has changed our philosophy of community.’ Adds Orly, whose father converted to marry her Israeli mother, ‘We weren’t very involved in Jewish traditions when I was a child, and I wanted our children to have a greater sense of belonging. We’re learning and celebrating with them and it’s lovely.’
POSITIVE IMPACT The potential for transformation is lost on neither. Orly is a trustee of Beit Halochem UK and has chaired their annual fundraising dinner for the last three years. Beit Halochem have rehabilitation centres across Israel which provide support for 51,000 disabled soldiers and victims of terror. Her mother went through several years of rehabilitation after an accident, so it’s work that’s close to her heart. ‘A 20-year-old soldier wakes up in a totally new body and has to re-learn everything from step one. Beit Halochem helps that person become a member of society again, focusing on what they can do, not what they can’t. Much like Chai, it’s about not being left on your own.’
RayaCottrell Photography
Believing in better
Orly admits she was nervous about her first visit to Chai’s flagship centre. ‘When you hear the word cancer, you feel a bit of a chill; the older you get, the more stories you hear. We all know someone who’s been through it. I won’t forget the day Louise took us around. It showed Andrew and I that the journey can be made easier. It’s such a positive, uplifting place. People want to hide their fears from their children, parents and partners. Here, you can share them and become part of the Chai family of support. The people involved are so passionate and inspirational.’
“The couple are drawn to projects that redefine or disrupt what is currently out there” Meanwhile, Andrew is the founder of MiSST (Music in Secondary Schools Trust), which grants funds to schools
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Together Magazine 2016
at Exeter University before deciding ‘it wasn’t really my scene.’ He proposed to Orly just ten days after meeting her. For seven of those days they were apart, as Orly’s modelling career meant non-stop travel for brands such as Escada, Gottex and Wolford. Andrew flew to Israel where she was based, for the second date. ‘It was so exciting, I knew the rest of my life was going to change.’ Ten years on, ‘It’s the best decision I ever made.’ For her part, Orly was taken with Andrew’s ‘gentlemanly manners and Andrew and Orly Wolfson with children Charles and Lily his humour. He reminded me of Colin Firth, but a better version!’ Their contemporaryin challenging areas, to buy classical classic, art-filled home is on an elegant instruments and provide instruction so North-west London street, where they that whole year groups can participate enjoy as much family time as possible in compulsory classical music. This – especially playing sport with the September there will be 3,500 young children. They are expecting their third people in the programme. ‘In schools child imminently. with 60+ first spoken languages, music breaks down the barriers of ethnicity, ‘It is very powerful age, religion and socio-economic group discovering for yourself like no other subject.’ Since 2013, the what a difference a scheme has seen one student go to Oxford to study music, and another join charity makes. That’s the National Youth Orchestra. Andrew what happened to us blanches, however, at the memory of his own squandered musical education. with Chai’ ‘I was so lucky. My parents paid for lessons at primary school and they don’t Both as an entrepreneur and as a trustee of the Charles Wolfson Charitable know this, but I used to tell my English Trust, Andrew is captivated by projects teacher that I had a music lesson, I’d tell that ‘do things that redefine or disrupt the music teacher that I wasn’t feeling what is currently out there and try well and I’d go off and play cards in the and create a new normal’. It’s why loo.’ For sweets, he adds. he is drawn to Chai. ‘In its holistic Betting on the conventional certainly approach, it gives an extra level of isn’t Andrew’s style. He spent one day support on those days when you’re not
Chai Cancer Care
in hospital having chemotherapy, but feel rotten. Not only that, it sustains all those around the cancer patient. There’s the security, too, of knowing that Chai understands Jewish traditions and values. It’s a fantastic – and vital – service. It’s acknowledged outside the community that we go the extra mile to care for our vulnerable.’
THE YOUNG VOTE With his passion for creating opportunities for the next generation (he is also involved in Access Aspiration, a work placement charity, and PaJes), he believes businesses and charities need to gain the confidence of the young to win their support. ‘Both have a responsibility to be transparent, charities especially with their fundraising and administration costs.’ He advocates organisations working together strategically for the longterm good of the community and sees Chai’s expansion in an existing Jewish community building in Manchester as a good example of this. ‘The home is also an important base for learning about caring for the needy,’ says Orly. ‘Our mum always taught the six of us, if you can help someone, why don’t you? If ever a neighbour had a problem, she was right there. You build on that with education. Hopefully our children see the amount of work that Andrew does, and the charities I’m involved with.’ She adds, ‘It is very powerful discovering for yourself what a difference a charity makes. Visit the charity. Meet the people who work there and the ones who are looked after. Understand the potential for your donation – and then you’ll feel a much stronger connection than simply attending an annual dinner. That’s what happened to us with Chai.’ ■
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Chai Cancer Care
The F Factor Could a brisk walk hold the key to stopping cancer in its tracks? We look at the latest research linking fitness and cancer prevention, and discover how Chai makes getting fit accessible to all
T
he clearest proof yet that exercise can improve cancer survival rates came at this year’s American Society of Clinical Oncology conference in Chicago. Research showed mortality rates for women with cancer who did the equivalent of three hours brisk walking a week fell by 46%. By
ONE-TO-ONE AND OPEN GYM SESSIONS The gym at Chai’s flagship centre is impressive by any standard. With guidance from physiotherapists Graham, Johnny and Natasha, clients recovering from surgery or treatment can build up their mobility and strength. ‘One-to-one sessions offer close monitoring while a person is physically unsteady and unsure about their capability,’ says Johnny. Clients can then progress to open gym sessions, where groups of three follow their personalised programmes. ‘The social aspect is very beneficial,’ adds Johnny. ‘As clients’ fitness, confidence and knowledge levels grow, they achieve more than they ever imagined.’
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contrast, obese women with breast cancer and high blood pressure were 69% less likely to survive. Melinda Irwin of Yale University, who led many of the studies, was unequivocal: ‘Women diagnosed with breast cancer should be counselled about weight loss and exercise.’ Men, take note, too. A trial at the University of Montreal has seen mortality rates drop by up to 22% in men with late-stage metastatic cancer
Equipment includes a multi-gym and leg press to restore muscle bulk and strength after surgery; a treadmill, recumbent, vertical bikes and hand bike, for cardiovascular work; a Swiss ball for building core strength and a small trampoline for improving balance. Free weights and floor mats provide further ways for trainers to work with clients.
(when it has spread) who follow a highintensity exercise programme. A further 1.4 million cases surveyed revealed that taking significant amounts of exercise reduces the risk of a whole range of cancers, including oesophageal, lung, stomach and colon. ‘The more the body operates at its optimum, the better recovery and survival is,’ says Graham Silas, one of Chai’s physiotherapists. ‘It may seem an impossible demand to get fit when cancer is the main focus, but with support from experts who understand the impact of cancer, we can make it easier.’ ■
ISRAELI DANCING As a trained ballet dancer, Sara Last needs no convincing of the pleasures of music and movement. ‘Dancing transports me, which is my hope for Chai clients, too.’ Many scientific studies show how dance aids the functions of the circulatory, respiratory, skeletal, and muscular systems. ‘It’s a recognised form of therapy, helping people connect emotionally with their body and integrate what they have been through,’ says Sara. Israeli, Greek, and Chassidic dances are taught but luckily you don’t have to be an expert mover. ‘People go at their own pace. By the end of the class, it’s wonderful to see how people’s body language has brightened and relaxed.’
“I go into a class feeling tired and come out invigorated” Vivienne
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Together Magazine 2016
YOGA
PILATES
TABLE TENNIS
‘Yoga is a bridge between body and mind, helping us to balance and adjust to changes in life,’ says Stacey Landau, a specialist in remedial yoga. Central to the practice is the breath, which is actively engaged to calm the mind throughout the class. Clients begin with a ‘body scan’ noting how they are feeling physically, before moving on to the yoga postures. ‘Everyone does what they can, even if they are seated,’ says Stacey who modifies poses such as the cobra and downward dog to make them more manageable. ‘The postures build muscle and core strength, improving balance, flexibility and alignment,’ Stacey explains. After a guided relaxation at the end of the class, clients often sleep better and have a more positive overall outlook. ‘When cancer makes you feel isolated, a yoga class can give you inner strength and group support.’
This low-impact, restorative exercise is an option for men and women at any stage of cancer treatment and recovery. In her Pilates class, teacher Fiona Good includes gentle, targeted muscle movements and weight-bearing exercises to encourage strength and endurance. That in turn helps joints to work better so stretching is easier – important for combatting excessive scar tissue. ‘Pilates re-establishes proper muscular firing patterns and improves body awareness, which may be lost as a result of surgery,’ says Fiona. For carers and the bereaved, too, Pilates can be a real confidencebuilder. ‘I’m humbled to witness my clients’ ability to adapt, as well as the body’s capacity to heal.’
This is one of Chai’s newest activities. Carol Ellman, who runs the group says, ‘The effect of cancer treatment on your bones and muscles can be very harsh. Movement is critical to recovery.’ After her own double mastectomy four years ago, the shoulder and upper arm actions involved in playing table tennis have helped rebuild her muscle strength. The sport also helps maintain hand-eye coordination and mental alertness. One client relishes her weekly matches
“Yoga sustains me physically and mentally – it’s my new normal” Jacky WALKING GROUP Chai’s weekly walkers value the exercise, fresh air and group contact as part of their re-hab routine. In collaboration with Maccabi GB and led by Janice Arons and volunteer Lisa Bogush, the group sets out from Chai to the nearby park, or follows a pretty route through Hendon’s streets for an hour. ‘Walking together provides a lovely, healthy distraction,’ says Janice. ‘If you’re nervous of going out on your own, this gives you extra support. With
the chat, it doesn’t even feel like training!’ Both brisk walkers and amblers are catered for. ‘With two of us on hand, no-one is ever left behind,’ says Lisa.
“Physical activity helps with my breathing and stamina – and I love meeting new people” Susie
For more information, please call Jodi Lazarus on 020 8457 3230
Chai Cancer Care
despite on-going treatment, while a widower who was isolated after his wife died, values taking part in a sociable sport. ‘People still have medical appointments to go to,’ says Carol, ‘but when you’re chasing that little white ball, you don’t think about anything else!’
“You lose so much when you have cancer. Playing table tennis has given me back my confidence” Linda 29
Service Spotlight
Manual lymphatic drainage update
Chai has introduced a new type of specialist treatment to help clients manage lymphoedema – one of cancer surgery’s long-term side effects
T
he phrase ‘living with and beyond cancer’ covers many scenarios – and heartening as the rising numbers of survivors are, the complexities of the onward journey include managing many long-term conditions. Lymphoedema – swelling of the legs, arms or other parts of the body – is one that requires continuous care. It occurs when the lymph nodes, located in the neck, armpits and groin area, are removed because they are cancerous or by damage to the skin from radiotherapy. Lymph fluid, which travels around the body collecting waste material and bacteria, cannot be expelled if the nodes are no longer there.
“Chai is at the forefront of searching out ways that make a meaningful difference to clients’ lives” Tissue surrounding the damaged area then becomes swollen with fluid, causing the skin to feel tight and heavy and inhibiting mobility. Clothes or shoes may not fit properly and everyday activities such as gardening or shopping are more problematic. These physical compromises, coming on top
30 Chai Cancer Care
of the cancer treatment, can be hard to cope with, leading to a loss of confidence affecting body image, social life and relationships. Upsettingly, too, lymphoedema may appear weeks, months or even years after surgery. Chai is at the forefront of searching out ways that make a meaningful difference to clients’ lives. With virtually no NHS resources available for dealing with lymphoedema, it recognised the need to support clients with this life-changing condition. Its Lymphoedema Clinic at the flagship centre launched in 2008. Specialist practitioner Sallyann Kaplan, explains its multi-faceted approach: ‘We provide MLD – manual lymphatic drainage – a very specific, slow, light and rhythmic massage that works on the network of vessels in the lymph system. Through gentle movement, lymph fluid is guided from the swollen area towards functioning nodes. We can fit clients for compression garments (such as sleeves, gloves, stockings or tights) and wrap the affected area in bandages where compression isn’t suitable. We also teach self-massage and exercises so there is continuity between visits. Swimming or yoga is recommended: movement is essential for the lymphatic system to function.’
The newest treatment component is the Physio Touch massage device. ‘The healing process can cause excessive amounts of scar or fibrotic tissue to build up,’ says Sallyann. ‘Physio Touch augments the range of massage techniques we have at our disposal. It works on a deeper level of the lymphatic system that is harder to reach by hand, so it’s very effective in dealing with localised and older scar tissue. It’s a pleasant and relaxing experience, too.’ As for the results, a newer client noticed a dramatic improvement in just two months. Some with more entrenched conditions have felt greater relief from their long-term symptoms. But the true impact goes beyond the physical. Says one, ‘I am feeling positive and have much more energy. This is the best I have felt in years.’ Adds Sallyann, ‘Although there is no way of repairing the damage to the lymph tissue, we can prevent it getting worse. We now have another way to restore dignity and quality of life for our clients.’ ■ For more information, please call Jo Awad on 020 8457 3396 Chai would like to thank the Outlook Committee for all their efforts in raising funds for the Physio Touch machine
Together 2016
The Chai Calendar AUGUST 2015
Our committees and supporters surpassed themselves over the past 12 months with events that informed, entertained and charmed. Each one takes thought, organisation and commitment, and helps to raise funds while increasing awareness of Chai’s services
OCTOBER
CHAI FIVE MUSICAL BINGO A test of musical knowledge prompted a lively
TRUDI BERMAN’S SPLENDID TEA
THE NATALIE SHIPMAN MEMORIAL LECTURE
A truly scrumptious tea for family and
Shining the spotlight on advances in men’s
prizes that included travel, restaurant and nail
friends organised by Trudi Berman raised
cancer, the 25th annual lecture ‘Transforming
bar vouchers, delighted Committee member
a fantastic £300 for Chai’s services in
the Prostate Cancer Pathway’ was given
Liz Feiner announced £1,000 has been raised.
Manchester. ‘I wanted to do this as a thank
by Professor Mark Emberton, Professor of
you and to show my deep appreciation for
Interventional Oncology, UCL whose work is
Chai’s support and understanding,’ said
significantly influencing treatment. In the Chair
Trudi, who used Chai’s services.
was Professor Albert Singer, Consultant (Hon)
BIRMINGHAM WELCOMES CHAI CANCER CARE
The Whittington Hospital. The lecture series
A 70-strong audience attended the launch of
commemorates the passing of 8-year-old Natalie
the new Chai satellite service in Birmingham,
Shipman z’l who inspired her mother Susan to
the result of Chai working with BJCC trustee
jointly found Chai with Frances Winegarten z’l.
Karen Georgevic and Sharon Grey, Social Care
atmosphere and enthusiastic discussion at this event at the flagship centre. Aided by raffle
Manager of the BJCC. Dr David Spooner, Consultant in Radiotherapy and Oncology gave a talk on latest cancer advances and took part in a Q&A session. The service is providing
Trudi Berman’s Manchester tea
SEPTEMBER CHAI SOCIETY ROSH HASHANAH GIFT SALE It’s a save-the-date ‘must’ for anyone seeking
counselling, physiotherapy and massage. Lisa Steele, Louise Hager, Prof Mark Emberton, Prof Albert Singer, Susan Shipman
NOVEMBER
special Rosh Hashanah gifts – and the 2015
THE CHAI BAKE OFF
Chai Society Gift Sale didn’t disappoint,
Keen bakers showcased their best efforts at
drawing over 700 shoppers to the flagship
Manchester’s Great Chai Bake Off, organised
centre last September. Generously sponsored
by the Chai Lights Committee: Ann Audin,
by Glentree Estates, over 40 stalls offered
Fran Horwich, Stephanie Jacobs, Marcelle
up tempting gifts, from hats to honey cakes,
Kuhillow, Jakki Pinsley and Reba Tury. Held
jewellery to Judaica, kosher confectionery to
at Whitefield Golf Club, a tasty afternoon of
chic millinery, Maxwell Williams tableware to
judging saw prizes awarded in best decorated,
tempting eyewear. Expertly organised by the
best tasting, junior and gentleman baker
Chai Society Committee, the event raised
categories with more than £1,000 raised for
an incredible £36,000.
Chai’s Manchester services.
Amanda Assheton at her bridge stall
Chai Cancer Care
Junior bake off winner Monty Super and Mayor of Bury, Michelle Wiseman
Lisa Steele, Dr David Spooner, Karen Georgevic, Louise Hager
CHALLAH BAKE FOR MITZVAH DAY Delicious aromas filled the flagship centre when Year 6 pupils from the Independent Jewish Day School baked challah for clients on Mitzvah Day. After their kitchen activity the children saw the Children’s and Play Therapy room which supports young clients.
Mia-Sara Rosenfeld, Jacob Gibson, Max Lanzkron and Avital Cohen
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The Chai Calendar VISITING ISRAELI MINISTER IS AMAZED BY CHAI Chai’s Chief Executive Lisa Steele welcomed Rabbi Yakov Litzman, Israel’s Minister of Health, to the flagship centre where he toured the building to see the range of support services
speech from client Wendy Hoffman who described the impact of hearing she had cancer and how Chai ‘understood every nuance, every shade, every stage of the path I was treading.’ The event raised £7,300, which went towards Chai’s Home Support Service.
YOUNG CHAI’S ‘SUGAR CHAI’ Three of the UK’s most respected nutrition and food industry experts were grilled by 60 guests at a Young Chai debate on the Sugar Tax at the flagship centre. Grappling with
provided to cancer patients, their family and
sugar’s reputation were nutritionist Ian Marber,
friends and met Chairman of Chai’s Medical
and entrepreneurs Asher Budwig of Lola’s
Advisory Board, Dr Adrian Tookman and Philip
Cupcakes and Mitch Minton of Presscription.
Weinstein, Chai Trustee. Rabbi Litzman was
From media influence and the NHS to
certainly impressed: ‘We have nothing like this in
childhood obesity and lifestyle, no area was
Israel. It’s an amazing facility.’
off limits to the trio. The informative evening raised £1,120.
Lisa Steele, Carol Ellman, Councillor Mark Shooter, Wendy Hoffman, Melissa Shooter
Dr Adrian Tookman, MK Rabbi Yakov Litzman, PhilipWeinstein
DECEMBER RAGING BULL PARTY Chai supporters turned out in their droves for the Raging Bull Club Night at Camden Town’s iconic Koko venue. Live music, DJ sets, a laser show, fire drums and stage dancers made it a night to remember, raising £3,345 along the way.
JANUARY 2016
FEBRUARY RAISING AWARENESS IN ESSEX
Young Chai Committee with panellists Mitch Minton, Ian Marber, Asher Budwig
cancer’ was the theme of a talk presented to
UPLIFTING MUSIC AND LAUGHTER
the Essex community by Consultant Clinical
More than 200 guests enjoyed a very special
Oncologist Dr Sherif Raouf, at the Redbridge
evening of entertainment including a preview
Jewish Community Centre. He shed light on
of singer Eitan Freilich’s new album, at ‘An
the often overlooked after-effects of treatment
Evening of Song and Celebration’. Hosted by
and how each patient requires individual
charedi stand-up comic Ashley Blaker, Eitan
support. Chai’s Essex Services currently
dedicated the fundraiser for Chai to his late
support more than 70 clients.
father and performed a song written in his
‘Cancer Survivorship – Living with and beyond
memory. The evening raised £1,500.
THE MAYOR OF BARNET’S CHARITY BRIDGE LUNCH Bridge, raising money for Chai and the Mayor of Barnet hosting – no wonder 110 eager card players supported this hot ticket event at the flagship centre. Organised by Carol Ellman and Angela White, the afternoon included a moving
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Rabbi Nissan Wilson, Dr Sherif Raouf
Eitan Freilich and his band
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Together Magazine 2016
THE OUTLOOK IS GREAT! BATMITZVAH GIRLS BRUNCH An enterprising group of girlfriends, who all met at Hertsmere Jewish Primary School, decided to celebrate their Bat Mitzvah by hosting a brunch for 40 of their pals, now at JFS or Yavneh College. The girls prepared all the food and drinks themselves and held a raffle, raising more than £1,000 for Chai.
APRIL ‘SINGO’ It’s bingo but not as you know it –
Singo
instead of numbers on a card, there
E AI COMMITTE THE LOVE CH to invite you to
are delighted
Bingo with a twist!
SUNDAY 17TH APRIL 2016
Doors open 19.00 | Event 19.30 - 22.00 Admission fee £30
are song titles to tick off. The musical evening
Venue
Chai Centre, 142-146 Great North Way London, NW4 1EH Light supper will be served BYOB (kosher) Raffle & Auction on the night years
To book please click here or contact melanie@chaicancercare.org
at the flagship centre gave 75 guests some lively entertainment
In the last 16 years, the Outlook Committee has raised more than £400,000 for Chai’s vital services. The creativity and professionalism of committee members Elaine Barnett, Sue Freedman, Fran Goldin, Michele LeesSmith, Marilyn Myers, Sally Needleman, Jackie Sharpstone and Janis and Rikki Sher, always ensures fantastic support.
and introduced many to the breadth of services and support Chai can give to young families and newlyweds. With raffle prizes including a Jimmy Choo handbag and a signed Brazil Amalya Millan, Sofia Forman, Katy Denby, Allie Bohm, Isabella Becker
MARCH MANCHESTER LECTURE
football shirt, the Love Chai committee – Danielle Baron, Nikki Bloom, Miriam Felder, Stephanie Gerstler, Talia Savitz and Caroline Tunkel – raised £2,500.
The Heathlands Village was the venue for a
GOURMET DINNER PARTY
talk entitled ‘Prevention and early detection of
How lucky were the 28 specially invited guests
breast cancer’ given by Lester Barr, Consultant
who enjoyed an exclusive gourmet dinner party
Surgeon and Chairman of the Genesis
hosted by Gefiltefest founder Michael Leventhal
Breast Cancer Prevention Centre. The lecture
and his wife Rachel Marcus. Michael’s family
covered pioneering research and the impact of
and in particular his mother who is going
genetics and environmental issues. Services in
through cancer, have benefitted from Chai’s care
Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds continue to
recently. ‘They have provided us with wonderful,
expand as the number of clients seeking
much appreciated support,’ he said. The evening
Chai’s services increases.
raised more than £2,400.
PRE-PURIM FRIDAY NIGHT DINNER Building on the huge popularity of last year’s event, the Chai Five Committee returned to Beit Hamadras Indian Restaurant in Hendon for an Asian-themed Pre-Purim Friday Night Dinner, and raised £400.
Chai Cancer Care
Rachel Marcus and Michael Leventhal
The Outlook Committee
These are the year’s highlights: the 13th Annual Outlook Committee 10k Walk raised £18,000 with the money going towards Chai’s Children, Teenage and Family Service. The everpopular Outlook Bridge Lunch and a fascinating talk from Erika Judge about her Kindertransport escape from Vienna at the age of 12, raised £2,610 and £3,060 respectively. These last two events funded vital new massage equipment to help ease the long-term effects 33 of lymphoedema.
The Chai Calendar MAY GLASGOW GIRLS BRIDGE LUNCH
JUNE
JENSON’S ON THE MONEY
GOLFERS HIT GOLD!
table sale in his driveway to raise funds for
The 11th Club 18 Chai Golf Tournament took
Chai’s Liverpool satellite service. Jenson, a
place at Dyrham Park Country Club where
pupil at King David Primary School, raised
nearly 100 golfers teed off on the testing
£35 selling all the books and toys he had
6,428-yard course, competing for one of
grown out of.
10-year-old Jenson Blankstone organised a
four prizes. Despite the cold, grey conditions, spirits remained high throughout the day and into the evening when the golfers enjoyed a cocktail party, dinner and raffle, with prizes Louise Kramer, Frances Bloom, Lynda Rapport, Barbara Kay, Linda Reich, Linda Goldberg
from Hummingbird Motors and Osprey. The event raised more than £40,000. Michael Lubliner and Ronnie Gottlieb, said: ‘The
Glasgow Girls in London hosted their second
atmosphere was great and the day’s scores
highly successful bridge lunch at the flagship
were quite remarkable.’
Jenson Blankstone
centre, raising £4,000 to be split between
AUGUST
Chai’s Glasgow service, and several other Glasgow charities. Committee member Louise Kramer, said, ‘We look forward to
GOODIES FOR GOOD
doing it all again next year!’
It was a case of ‘flour power’ when friends, Ella Frankfurt, Atara Fachler, Tehilla Rome and Liora Dewinter from the Independent Jewish Day School and Hasmonean Primary School, put their baking skills to deliciously good use for Chai. Their baking sale raised Michael Lubliner, Ronnie Gottlieb, Lisa Steele, Louise Hager, Jack Galaun, Trevor Berkowitz, David Joffe, Jennifer Cohen
Paul Gold, son Elliot and joint winner Juliet Kent
CELEBRATING SIMONE’S LIFE When Paul Gold hosted a packed bridge event at the Ace of Clubs Bridge Club at Mill Hill Golf Club, he did it wearing the purple wig his late wife Simone wore during her chemotherapy treatment. ‘I wanted it to be a happy event and this was the wig Simone wore to the bridge club to put people at ease,’ said Paul. The event raised £3,460 for Chai.
34 Chai Cancer Care
an impressive £150.
JULY ‘COME DINE WITH ME’ There was a novel approach to Shabbat dinner hospitality when more than 40 guests enjoyed a meal in five different venues across Hendon. The event, organised by the Chai Five Committee, was generously hosted by Rebecca Attar, Laura Beer, Aviva Braunold, Brochy
Ella Frankfurt, Atara Fachler, Tehilla Rome, Liora Dewinter
Forta, Shoshy Lerner, Richard Lewis, Lauren Rosettenstein, Hannah Smith, and Maya Zippel and raised over £900.
Turn to p39 to see how you can easily donate to Chai
Together 2016
CHAI CHALLENGES YOU!
24 24 PEAKS IN
HOURS
Chai Cancer Care
LIFE CHANGES COMPLETELY WITH A CANCER DIAGNOSIS – IN JUST ONE DAY Chai Challenges You! to make a difference – in just 24 hours. The ‘24 Peaks in 24 Hours’ challenge invites you to become a ‘Chai Climber’ and scale a total of 13,986 feet of the most beautiful, rugged and demanding terrain in the Lake District, including Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain. Every penny raised by the ‘Chai Climbers’ will go towards Chai’s Home Support Service, which brings our services to those unable to reach our 11 centres across the UK. Are you tough enough to become a ‘Chai Climber’ and take the challenge? Women only, minimum sponshorship £2,400 25th-27th June 2017 To find out more visit: tinyurl.com/jg3hahp To register your interest and to attend our information evening on Monday 7th November 2016 email: alexandramaurice@chaicancercare.org or call Alexandra on 020 8457 3394
Chai Cancer Care
You’re amazing! Thank you to all the sponsored runners, riders, climbers – and quirky challengers whose commitment, effort and generosity to Chai ensure our services reach everyone who needs us. Your kindness and loyalty is never taken for granted
WHAT A HAIR DO CAN DO! Brothers Simon and Max Misrahi raised a staggering £13,427 when they went platinum blonde to raise awareness of the impact of breast cancer, and to support Chai. Hairstylist Robin Pawloski (centre) transformed their brown locks at Chai’s Image Resource Room at the flagship centre. The idea came after their mother Joyce was treated for breast cancer four years ago. ‘I’m so proud of my boys!’ she said of the amount raised.
RELATIVE SUCCESS AT THE ROYAL PARKS
Jason Lipman & Joel Hilton
Lionel & Ben Davis
Brothers-in-law Jason Lipman and Joel Hilton completed the Royal Parks Half Marathon in memory of their Grandpa Ray, who used Chai’s services, raising £1,960 and £1,580 respectively. Also running were Lionel and Ben Davis in memory of friend and godmother Debra Persey who benefitted from Chai before she passed away last year. The father/ son duo raised over £4,900, for Chai and Macmillan.
RAISING THE BARR IN NYC
Jonathan Barr
36 Chai Cancer Care
Last November’s New York marathon was an especially meaningful challenge for Jonathan Barr. It came just 10 weeks after he finished chemotherapy for testicular cancer and a few months after his mother Val passed away from breast cancer. Val, who volunteered at Chai, and Jonathan, both used Chai services. ‘Our family was surrounded by such kindness and support at Chai. I’m delighted to give something back.’ Finishing in 5 hours 5mins, Jonathan raised £3,230.
JOEL REACHES HIS PEAK
Joel Anderson
Twenty years after losing his father to cancer, Joel Anderson embarked on the challenge of a lifetime, climbing Kilimanjaro. ‘Chai’s services were not available to my family all those years ago. Now they offer great support.’ Describing it as ‘gruelling’, Joel’s reward was scaling all 5985m and raising more than £5,660.
MACCABI GB FUN RUN
Tapnack family
A bumper turnout of more than 180 supporters raised more than £12,500 at this family-friendly event. Among them the Tapnack family: Dani, Jonny and children Josh 10, Jacob 7, and Talia 4, who raised an incredible £1,500. Also participating were Vered and Marc Anderson and children Ethan 12, Lia 7, and Aiden 5. ‘I recently lost a close friend who was only 42,’ said Vered. ‘She left behind a husband and four girls. Chai did a lot for all of them.’ The Fahidi family, too, came to Chai when mother Nicole had breast cancer. They raised £1,200.
Anderson family
Together 2016
Together Magazine 2016
David Abramson, Sammy Weinbaum
Emma Borkin
VITALITY NORTH LONDON HALF MARATHON
‘MAMILs’ IN THE SADDLE FROM LONDON TO PARIS
Many people have personal reasons for supporting Chai. David Abramson’s was his friend David Goldschmidt. ‘Watching David’s illness progress was devastating. Chai made his last year a bit easier. I’m delighted to run in his honour.’ Friend Sammy Weinbaum ran in tribute to the care his mother-in-law received from Chai. ‘It allowed her to be an individual and not be defined by cancer.’ David and Sammy raised over £4,650. Also running was Emma Borkin who raised £500.
Middle-Aged Men in Lycra (MAMILs), Chai physiotherapist, Graham Silas, with friends Jonny Goldberg, Gideon Kay and Richard Stephens took on the 350km London to Paris bike ride in August. ‘Each of us is connected to Chai through work or because loved ones have used its services. We wanted to support it and prove to ourselves - and our wives – that we still had it in us!’ says Graham. They found their three days of effort ‘hugely inspiring’ and raised more than £7,500.
THANKS ALSO TOO…
Middle-Aged Men in Lycra
BAR AND BAT MITZVAH STARS Thinking of Chai at the time of their simchas, our wonderful young supporters
Josh Rom’s sponsored back wax – ouch!
Mitchell Stanton’s Capital 2 Coast cycle raised £856
Trekathon’s Suzanne Gold with her father, brother and son Ethan
Aryeh Birnbaum
Brook Goldenberg
David with Ruby (in buggy) and supporters
Chaim Ostreicher, Jakob Silber, Yanki Wolff, Moshe Fachler, David Regal
Zack Lovat
A team of five schoolboys from Hasmonean Boys’ School scooped second prize in the First Give competition, winning a £250 donation for Chai. The initiative encourages young people to give their time, tenacity and talents to improve their communities. The boys chose to visit Chai’s flagship to learn about its work.
TZEDAKA GIFT
SINAI GIRLS SWEET IDEA Sinai school friends Jessica Harris, Ella Baskin and Romy Lever, all nine, organised an after-school sweet sale and raised £90. What a yummy idea!
Pearl Maurice
HASMONEAN’S FIRST GIVE
RUNNING FOR LAUREL By the time Laurel Cohen gave birth to daughter Ruby in 2015, the joy she and husband David had at becoming parents had been shattered by the news that Laurel had terminal bowel cancer. Laurel was visited by a Chai counsellor and David continues to use its services. A year after Laurel’s death in July 2015, David began a series of fundraising runs with baby Ruby. ‘We’re doing 10ks as it’s really challenging when you’re pushing a buggy,’ says David whose inspiring initiative has raised £2,350.
Joel Toledano
Chana & Yitzi Weisz
Chana and Yitzi Weisz brought their tzedaka money into Chai in January, along with a truly touching message: ‘We had no idea how much a simple donation can help the kids at Chai. The team thinks of the best toys to buy for the children.’
Jessica, Ella & Romy
Chai Cancer Care
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Chai Cancer Care
4 FOR THE CHOP Who knew plaits were so valuable? Talia Robeson raised £3,708 and Abigail Benaim almost £1,200 with their sponsored snips for Chai. Both girls donated their hair to Zichron Menachem, which makes wigs for children with cancer. Aurelia Hodes’ new bob made £1,750, and when Aviva Myerson’s mother, Esther, began losing her hair because of chemotherapy, she showed solidarity by being shorn too, raising £900.
Talia Robeson
Aviva Myerson (right) and mother Esther
CHAI WOULD LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE OUR WONDERFUL SUPPORTERS WHO HAVE SET UP A FUNDRAISING PAGE IN AID OF CHAI David Abramson
Suzanne Langham
Julie Alexander
Amber Rose Levene
Joyce Alexander-Black
Michael Leventhal &
Joel Anderson
Rachel Marcus
Gerald Barc
Adam Lewis
Jonathan Barr
Jason Lipman
Abigail Benaim
Janine Lowy
Daphne Berkovi
Hannah Mark
Henny Bernstein
Adam Marks
Russell Black
Middle Aged Men in Lycra
Emma Borkin
Hannah Martin
Olivia Bucci
Simon and Max Misrahi
Ian and Linda Burns
Shelley Molyneux
Lorraine Burns
Aviva Myerson
Sara Canning
Olivia Naylor
Plateful of Love Cookbook Committee
Evie Nicholls
Hazel & Laurence Cohen
Roger Nyman
David Cohen Jonathan Connick Karen Cooper Max Curtis
Aurelia Hodes
Abigail Benaim
THE BEST WAY TO RAISE MONEY FOR US Did you know Chai has its own fundraising platform? For Chai is a platform dedicated to helping you publicise your challenge and lets you post photographs, tell your story and update your sponsors on your progress and results. Best of all, unlike other fundraising platforms, it takes no cut from the money donated so every penny goes direct to support Chai’s services. It’s simple to get started and absolutely secure. Just go to chaicancercare.org and click on the For Chai link in the top right hand corner of the page.
38 Chai Cancer Care
Gabby Niman Malcolm Persey Shelley Poll Lorraine Raphael
Melanie Daniels
Eleanor Richman & Charlotte Silver
Sandra Davis
Talia Robeson
Lionel & Ben Davis
Joshua Rom
Fahidi Family
Linda Rose
Benji Field
Natalie Rosen
Anthony Field
Fiona Scott
Michelle Finesilver
Andrew Selzer
Zara Finestone
Noah Shulman-Miller
Libby Fisher
Judith Spevock
Jo Fishman
Vivien Spevock
Frankfurt Family
Mitchell Stanton
Suzy Gold
Tapnack Family
Lesley Gordon
Nikki Tapper
Joel Hilton
Karen Treep
Aurelia Hodes
Sammy Weinbaum
Susan Hyer
Martin West
Nicola Josephs
Geoff Wynne
Jackie Kramer
10K Walk - Outlook Committee
Kramer Family
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Together Magazine 2016
How YOU make the difference W
hen you come to a Chai event or sponsor an intrepid trekker, take on a challenge or organise a fundraiser, you’re making a difference to many lives – and many generations. People like Nikky Schofield, her mother Lucille and daughter Izzy, who came to Chai back in 2012, when Nikky was diagnosed with breast cancer. A cancer diagnosis rarely affects just the patient. Children, parents, partners and siblings also have their world turned upside down. ‘I’m not sure how we would
WAYS TO GIVE On special occasions Nominate Chai to mark an event or celebration, in lieu of gifts Contact Jacki Stanton jackistanton@chaicancercare.org or call on 020 8457 3231
Leave a legacy An enduring way to support Chai is with a legacy in your Will. Visit Jewish Legacy Giving (jewishlegacygiving.org.uk) to find out more. If you wish to tell us of your intention, we would
Chai Cancer Care
have got through everything without Chai’s practical and emotional support,’ says Nikky.
Nikky (centre), mother Lucille and daughter Izzy – three generations supported by Chai
The rising numbers of cancer diagnoses in those under 40 and more people living with the effects of treatment, mean our services are continuously expanding and developing. And it’s thanks to you that they can. Your donation gives a child somewhere to explore their fragile feelings, you enable a person to regain their fitness and feel positive again, and you help ensure a husband can cope with his loss.
On behalf of each generation who benefits from your loyalty and generosity, we give our heartfelt thanks and gratitude.
be honoured to recognise your generosity during your lifetime. Contact Lisa Steele: lisas@chaicancercare.org or call 020 8457 3392
Donate online The simplest and quickest way to donate. Click on the Make a Donation yellow tab on the top right hand side of our website.
Call us For donations over the phone Call Jacki Stanton on 020 8457 3231 or Janet Lloyd on 020 8457 2072
By Post Send cheques or charity vouchers to: Chai Cancer Care 142-146 Great North Way London NW4 1EH
Gift Aid your donation If you are UK taxpayer, Gift Aid increases your donations by 25%. Tell us when you make your donation, or download a Gift Aid Declaration form from our website.
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How does Chai care? Thanks to the generosity of the community, Chai Cancer Care provides specialised support to thousands of people across the UK who have been affected by a cancer diagnosis. To find out more please call our Freephone Helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit www.chaicancercare.org
Advisory Services Advocacy & Information Advice Bureau Financial & Legal Guidance Image Resource Service Jewish Perspectives on Cancer Medical Connections Nutritional & Dietary Advice Resources & Information Counselling Counselling for Individuals, Couples & Families Counselling for Genetic Issues Music Therapy Relationship Counselling Telephone & Skype Counselling Children, Teenage and Family Service Art Therapy Music Therapy Play Therapy Therapies Manual Lymphatic Drainage Physiotherapy
Medical Outpatient Rehabilitation and Palliative Care Service Complementary Therapies Acupuncture Aromatherapy Foot Care Service Healing Hot Stones Hypnotherapy Indian Head Massage Reflexology Reiki Therapeutic Massage Home Support Service Group Activities Art Workshop Computer Lessons Israeli Dancing Jewellery Workshop Knitting Meditation Music Workshop Open/Supervised Gym Sessions Pet Therapy Pilates Table Tennis Walking Group Yoga Support Groups BRCA Group Bereavement Groups Breast Buddies Groups for Cancer Patients/Carers Lifestyle Group Volunteer Service
Services are available at: North West London South London Essex Hackney Southend Birmingham Leeds Liverpool South Manchester North Manchester Glasgow Clients’ Homes Chai Lifeline Cancer Care Registered Charity No. 1078956
Together 2016