N E W S L E T T E R
F E B R U A R Y
A MESSAGE FROM SAM
Hi, ladies!
I hope You had a lovely Valentine’s Day last week!
February is often a month where love is talked about everywhere, but we know that love can mean very different things to different peopleespecially when life has changed in ways you never expected After a cancer diagnosis, love can feel different. Relationships shift. Priorities change. The way we see ourselves can change too
But one thing remains true: love is still here.
Sometimes it shows up in quiet ways - a hand held during an appointment, a message from a friend, someone sitting beside you when words are hard to find. Sometimes it shows up in the courage it takes to keep going And sometimes, it needs to begin with how we speak to ourselves.
This month isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about recognising the strength it takes to love and be loved through uncertainty, change and healing.
However February is feeling for you, know that you are valued, you are supported, and you are part of something bigger than any single diagnosis
With all my love,
Sam x
U P D A T E S
ANCHOR MEET-UPS
This year, we’re excited to introduce out new Anchor Meet-ups - regular, predicable activities designed to make it even easier for you to stay supported, involved and connected. From February onwards, you can count on our Coffee and Catch-up taking place on the first Monday of every month, and our monthly meal happening on the last Friday of every month. These two meet-ups will act as steady anchors in our calendar, giving everyone something familiar and comforting to look forward to each month. Alongside this, our fortnightly Art &Craft sessions will continue with sessions returning from 15 January. As these are dependent on venue availability, we kindly ask members to keep an eye on the dates for these. th
We hope this new structure makes it easier to plan ahead.
A D V I C E A N
D T I P S
FEBRUARY WELLBEING FOCUS: LOVE AND INTIMACY AFTER CANCER
A cancer diagnosis can change many things - including how we feel about intimacy, relationships, and our own bodies. These changes are completely normal. Whether you are in a relationship, dating, or focusing on yourself, navigating intimacy after cancer can feel complicated. Please know: you are not alone in this.
A
D V I C E A N D T I P S
YOUR BODY MAY FEEL DIFFERENT - AND THAT’S OKAY
Treatment can bring physical changes such as fatigue, pain, scars, menopause symptoms, loss of libido, vaginal dryness, or changes in sensation. These are medical side effects - not personal failings. If something feels uncomfortable or painful, speak to your GP, specialist nurse, or oncology team. There are treatments and practical solutions available.
A D V
I C E A N D T I P S
COMMUNICATION IS POWERFUL
It can feel awkward to talk about intimacy, especially if things have changed. But open, gentle communication can reduce anxiety for both partners. You might try:
“I’m still figuring out what feels okay for me.”
“I want to feel close, but I might need to go slowly.”
“Can we explore what feels comfortable together.”
Intimacy is not just physical - it’s emotional safety too.
A D V I C E A N D T I P S
REDEFINE INTIMACY
Intimacy doesn’t have to mean intercourse. Holding hands, cuddling, massage, laughing together, lying close, or simply feeling emotionally connected are all forms of intimacy.
After cancer, many couples find that slowing down and rebuilding connection gradually can deepen closeness.
A D V I C E A N D T I P S
CONFIDENCE TAKES TIME
Changes in hair, scars, weight, or body shape can affect how we see ourselves. Be gentle with your reflection. Your body has been through something extraordinary. It deserves compassion. Wearing clothes or lingerie that make you feel comfortable, soft lighting, or taking time to reconnect with your body privately can help rebuild confidence at your own pace.
There is no “right timeline” for returning to intimacy. There is no pressure. Love after cancer may look different - but different does not mean lesser. It can be slower, deeper, more intentional.
E V E N T S
ART & CRAFT CLUB
Where: St Maries Church, Lugsdale Rd, Widnes, WA8 6DB
When: Thursday 19 February 2026 - 1pm-3pm th Thursday 5 March 2026 - 1pm-3pm th Thursday 19 March 2026 - 1pm-3pm th
What to expect:
Unleash your creativity in a fun, welcoming space where laughter flows as freely as the paint and the glue! Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned maker, everyone is welcome. It’s all about the joy of creating, not perfection. Each session brings a different artistic or crafty activity, giving you the chance to explore various styles and techniques in a relaxed, supportive environment. Great company, uplifting conversations, and time just for you!
E V E N T S
COFFEE AND CATCH UP
Where: Coffee House, Widnes, 83 Widnes Road, WA8 6BJ
When: Monday 2 March 2026 11am-12pm nd
What to expect:
Join us for a relaxed and uplifting coffee catch-up at the Coffee House in Widnes. This is a lovely opportunity to reconnect, share some laughs, enjoy good conversation, and start the week in the most positive way. Whether you’re new to Sam’s Diamonds or a familiar face, everyone is welcome!
E V E N T S
MEAL AT THE BOTTLE AND GLASS INN - ST HELENS
Where: The Bottle and Glass Inn - 26 Saint Helens Road, Rainford, WA11 7QT
When: Friday 3 April 2026 - 7pm rd
What to expect:
Join us for our much loved monthly meal at the lovely Bottle and Glass in St Helens - a relaxed, friendly evening filled with good food, great company and plenty of laughs
Our monthly meals are a wonderful chance for our Diamonds to come together, enjoy a nice meal, catch up on life, and simply spend time with people who truly understand.
Whether you’re a familiar face or thinking of joining us for the first time, you will be made to feel very welcome. Come along for as long as you’re able, order whatever you fancy, and enjoy an evening of warmth, conversation and support.
Please let me know if you’re planning to come so I can make sure we have enough seats at the table.
