Thatcham women to hold charity event in memory of late friend's cancer campaign
A friendship group in Thatcham is raising money for a cancer campaign following the passing of their friend Laura Kendrick.
The mother of two, who lost her battle with cancer in late February, launched her campaign Kindness vs Cancer in a bid to raise awareness of compassion within the NHS.
The funds go towards training for the NHS oncology teams, which places compassion and empathy at the heart of their interactions, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.
One of Laura’s friends, Michelle Yam, is hosting a fitness event with the hope of supporting the campaign.
She said: “'Like everyone involved, I've been deeply moved by Laura's courage and wanted to do something to support this wonderful cause and help get to the fundraising target.
“As a fitness instructor it was natural I'd chose an exercise class with all proceeds to the Kindness Vs Cancer Campaign. If exercise is not your thing, then there will be cakes for sale afterwards.”
Another one of Laura’s best friends Natalie Taylor will be attending and said that in addition to supporting Mrs Kendrick's family, the friendship group wanted to continue what they believe was Laura’s passion.
She said: “As a friendship group we are trying to help where we can with the campaign.
“[Laura] wanted to make a change so we are all throwing our energy into it.
“That’s why this event is so important, it gets the word out there. It’s not just for Laura, it is for every patient.”
She recalled what it was like to hear about Laura’s experiences as a patient, having to receive personal information over the phone, and said: “I was there during Covid when she was having these conversations. We were having to wear masks and drive her to her appointments.
“She was having these life changing conversations which were impacting her mental health, we were in isolation then as well; it was hard to support someone virtually.”
The event will be held outside, behind the Hermitage Village Hall, on April 2 from 2.30pm. The class is £10 and all proceeds will go towards the Kindness vs Cancer campaign.
