Thank you to Can Cope

FORCE was grateful to receive a generous donation from the Can Cope breast cancer support charity.

Can Cope was founded in 1985 by Jean Diggins of Exmouth.

When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she felt there was no-one or no place that she could talk about her cancer or get support.

Jean recognised the importance of creating a supportive space where women could meet others facing a similar journey. She got together with some other ladies from The Quite Mind Centre and started a coffee morning get together and formed Can Cope.

The charity became a vital lifeline, bringing women together each month to share experiences and find strength in community.

Jill Hillman explains: “The charity grew over the years. Our monthly meetings were held in various locations around Exmouth. Our last venue was the Imperial Hotel where they offered free parking as well as tea and coffee for our ladies.

Incredible

“We arranged to have guest speakers. Our annual outing usually included a cream.  We took part in fundraising events including a swim in the sea on Christmas Day that I took part in.

“In the last couple of years, we organised goody bags to be given to the ladies at the Cherrybrook Ward at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. These bags contained lots of useful items for the ladies who had just been diagnosed with breast cancer.”

In June, Can Cope celebrated an incredible 40 years of service. However, due to circumstances beyond their control, the charity has now made the difficult decision to close.

As part of their legacy, they donated funds to support breast cancer services, giving money to the breast care unit at the RDUH and £4,000 to FORCE.

“On a personal note, I am upset that I am now having to wind it up,” said Jill. “I became treasurer in 2014 and enjoyed my time with this worthwhile charity.”

FORCE is thankful for their generosity and proud to continue the spirit of support and care that Can Cope has embodied for so many years.

• Jill is pictured presenting a cheque to FORCE Community Fundraising Officer Ceri Bastyan.