Bosom Friends offers a warm and understanding welcome to local women who have faced cancer. This month, as part of a continuing series, member Sue shares her own experience of treatment and recovery.
Bosom Friends is a local support group of and for women who have experienced cancer first-hand. We provide a welcoming and safe space for women to share their journey, exchange insights and find comfort with those who truly understand. Our relaxed gatherings are the perfect opportunity to meet other women who have had a cancer diagnosis, to share stories, swap advice and build friendships.
Cancer comes in many forms and every person’s experience is different. This is one of the main reasons why there is a growing body of evidence which shows that a holistic approach to cancer treatment and post-treatment recovery delivers the best outcomes.
Experiencing cancer treatment is an intensely personal and often physically and emotionally exhausting journey. It is frequently described as an unpredictable rollercoaster of feelings, from anxiety and numbness to optimism, combined with a new, demanding routine of hospital visits, medications and managing side effects like fatigue. (Cancer Research UK)
“Having open, honest conversations with people going through the same thing has been mentally supportive beyond words.”
Sue’s story
I was diagnosed in October 2018 with triple negative breast cancer, after being referred to the breast cancer clinic at RSCH by my GP because of skin changes. An ultrasound found what they thought was a cyst. It couldn’t be drained, so a biopsy was done and it was confirmed.
After a cancer diagnosis you aren’t the same person as you were before. Physically there is surgery, chemo, radiotherapy and hair loss, but you also need to heal mentally. It’s only after the physical part is over that you start to heal mentally and come to terms with all you have gone through.
Be confident in your own body. You are the best person to know how you are feeling. Ask questions, and take someone with you to appointments to help listen and make notes. Life’s too short, so be kind to yourself!
“Life’s too short, so be kind to yourself.”
I’ve been cancer free for over six years. I recognise key dates in different ways: diagnosis, finishing chemo, finishing my treatment and ringing the bell! I celebrate that last one, buying myself a bottle of pink fizz, sometimes flowers, sometimes jewellery, and spending time with family. I’m physically well and there is no ongoing treatment for a triple negative diagnosis. I’m more confident in myself and thankful to be here.
A listening ear
At Bosom Friends we offer a listening ear, because we know that wherever you are on your cancer journey, sometimes just having someone to talk to can make all the difference.
“From WhatsApp chats to wellbeing days, this committed group has helped me grow, heal and feel less alone.”
We meet every Friday from 9.30 to 11.00am at Alpher Coffee at the Cranleigh Village Hall.
This article first appeared in the August 2026 issue of Cranleigh Magazine. Pick up your free copy around the village, or read more at cranleighmagazine.co.uk.
