Without the Hummingbird Centre “I would be in a much darker place”.
Those are the words of Graham Darby a guest, supporter and fund raiser of the cancer support centre and the first speaker at the inaugural meeting of The Hummingbird Centre’s newly launched Men’s Support Group
Known as Big G, Graham told the packed room how his life had been turned upside down after he was diagnosed with terminal cancer and how through “20 months of hell” he came to rely on the centre.
Now, he is one of a team of men determined to get the Men’s Support Group off the ground and provide help, support and friendship to men impacted by cancer from across Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.
The first official meeting will take place on Monday, October 6, from 6pm to 8pm, at The Hummingbird Centre, Station Road, Launton, near Bicester, and will be a chance to discuss ideas and set the agenda for future sessions.
The team have made a call to any men impacted by cancer, whether their own diagnosis or a family member or friend, to go along.
Zoe Draper, Centre Manager,“We were delighted by the turn out to the launch event – we heard some really inspiring words and I can’t thank our speakers enough for sharing their personal stories with us.
“We know the group is needed; we know men often try and stay strong for their loved ones often to the detriment of their own mental health; and we also know they need support. This group is open to all men and you will receive a warm welcome and maybe even a beer.
“We are really excited to get things moving and are looking forward to getting some activities in the diary.
“The Men’s Group is something The Hummingbird Centre has wanted to set up for long time. We know men traditionally hide their emotions and bottle up their feelings and worries, so we want this group to be their support. They can meet other men in the same situation and if they want to, use the other services offered by the Hummingbird Centre.”
Bicester’s mayor Alisa Russell, who has chosen the Hummingbird Centre as one of the charities she is supporting this year, and the High Sherrif of Oxfordshire John May joined the launch event.