February 28 marked the 30th anniversary of the Thames Community Cancer Support Group, a non-profit organisation that supports those with life-shortening illnesses.
The group is made up of a core committee of 10 volunteers who “fill the gaps” for people dealing with illnesses like cancer, Parkinson’s disease, motor neuron disease, and chronic end-stage conditions, along with providing support for their families and carers.
It all began in 1996 with three members: MaryAnne Dalton, Lynne Wood and the late Colin McKenzie.
“Colin and [wife] Josie McKenzie’s son, Grant, was diagnosed with cancer at 22,” Lynne said.
“They felt that there wasn’t really any local support of any sort – they had to go to Auckland or Hamilton for anything. So we thought, well, there must be others in that same sort of position.”
From there, the group grew. It became a way to help with needs, often financial, that weren’t funded by government agencies or other charities like Hospice and The Cancer Society.
“We look very hard at trying to support people through the gaps that there are within the healthcare system,” Lynne said.
“Counselling was a very important aspect for us to focus on initially … The government gives some travel allowance, but if you’re only travelling say from Turua to Thames and back again you’re not going to be eligible. So it’s that ‘gap’ kind of stuff.”
Typical items the group funds are things like petrol or food vouchers, massages and physiotherapy, counselling, winter heating costs, and school costs, with each client’s needs being assessed on an individual basis.
“We’re not affiliated with The Cancer Society or any other charity. We don’t get any [funding] from the government – we are funded entirely by donations,” Lynne said.
“And any money we receive is spent locally.”
However, it’s not just about financial aid. The group also runs a regular coffee club on the third Wednesday of the month at the Thames Croquet Club. The coffee club is there for emotional support; a place where those who are experiencing or caring for someone with a life-threatening illness can meet others in a similar position.
“It’s the ‘everything else’ – that’s the emotional support, it’s being there for somebody. Knowing that they’re actually there and caring is every bit as important, if not more important than the physical stuff,” committee member Maureen Hill said.
“There’s that sort of fellowship there where people understand. And when a patient has died, sometimes the person who cared for that patient likes to continue coming and so that’s part of it as well. They can then give back to the group as a supporter instead of a receiver.”
The group also helps with referrals to other initiatives including Look Good Feel Better, a wellbeing and makeover organisation aimed at cancer patients; and TimeOut, a charity offering family holiday getaways to patients with stage four cancer or incurable illnesses.
The group’s 30th commemoration on Saturday was a low-key affair, with a special lunch for current and founding members. But it was also a chance to celebrate hundreds of people they helped over the years.
“I think it’s pretty good for a little local group, really.
“I don’t know how many other small groups have kept going as long as we have,” Lynne said.
DETAILS: The Community Cancer Support Group covers Thames, Thames Coast and the Hauraki Plains. Referrals can be made by a GP, nurse, or other medical professional, or patients can self-refer. Contact Lynne Wood 07 868 7550 or 027 264 8078 for more information.
