Pink Buddies

(See the photos from the Gala here) On Wednesday 4th February a team of inspirational breast cancer survivors hosted a gala evening to raise money for Breast Cancer Haven, the UK’s only charity that promotes integrated healthcare (including complementary therapies) specifically designed to help women going through breast cancer treatment. The gala event was organised by the ‘Pink Buddies’ a group of breast cancer survivors of all ages who were all treated at London Bridge hospital. The Buddies, through their work at the hospital and the support of the Haven centres, aim to offer inspiration and information to all breast cancer sufferers. Despite the event coinciding with London’s worst snowfall in 18 years, the Buddies went ahead with the event, which they had spent six months planning, in conjunction with the two Breast Care nurses based at London Bridge, Barbara Binder and Vanessa Parsons. Lorna Jones, a 10 year survivor, introduced the events of the evening on behalf of the Buddies, and thanked London Bridge Hospital for hosting the evening in the beautiful Board Room of St Olaf House overlooking the Thames. Shirley Edwards welcomed everyone on behalf of London Bridge. The event included a red carpet fashion show of lingerie and swimwear modelled by the Buddies themselves and generously supplied by Nicola Jane and Eloise, both specialist suppliers for anyone following breast surgery. The prize draw included a weekend at the Novotel Tower Bridge and West End show tickets, a private pre-release film screening at Soho House, Eurostar tickets, books, DVDs and other items kindly donated by a variety of sponsors. The evening raised over £1200, which will help the Haven to continue to offer much needed support for women going through treatment for breast cancer. The Buddies also host bi-monthly support group meetings, alternating lunchtimes and evenings, with guest speakers. Details will be available soon.