For 25 years, the Swansea & Gower Cancer Self Help Group has been a source of comfort, connection, and care for people affected by cancer. Founded in 1999 by Yvonne Young following her own cancer diagnosis, the group has supported individuals through weekly sessions, therapy services, and a successful fundraising shop. Now, as the group disbands, it leaves behind a powerful legacy—one that will continue to support cancer patients for years to come.

The Impact of a Community

Over the decades, the group provided a safe space where people undergoing or recovering from treatment could find understanding, companionship, and holistic support. Therapists and volunteers played a key role in ensuring that those affected by cancer didn’t feel alone in their journey.

However, the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic meant that the group lost its meeting space and saw its numbers dwindle. Rather than allowing its remaining funds to sit unused, the group made a heartfelt decision—to reinvest in the wider cancer community.

A Lasting Gift: The Lotus Suite

Before closing its doors, the Swansea & Gower Cancer Self Help Group donated £25,000 to Swansea Bay Health Charity’s Going the Extra Mile for Cancer appeal. This generous contribution helped create the Lotus Suite at the South West Wales Cancer Centre (SWWCC) in Singleton Hospital.

The newly completed Lotus Suite is a dedicated wellbeing space for both patients and staff. Featuring comfortable furniture, a meeting area, and a stunning lavender wall mural, the room is designed to offer a sense of calm and respite. The serene view across Swansea Bay to Mumbles adds to the tranquil atmosphere, providing a much-needed escape from the clinical environment of the hospital.

Yvonne Young, along with the group’s directors, visited to officially open the Lotus Suite. Reflecting on its importance, she said:

“When you’re a cancer patient, that’s all you’ve got in your head—the cancer. Coming in here, it has that softer feel. More welcoming. It’s lovely.”

Supporting Future Generations

The Lotus Suite will serve as a space for quiet reflection, support meetings, and difficult conversations between patients and their families. Oncology Service Manager Kate Ashton emphasised how crucial such a space is:

“It takes away from that clinical atmosphere, providing a place for patients and staff to decompress. Thanks to this donation, we can now offer wellbeing-focused sessions and support services.”

Alongside this donation, the group also contributed funds to other important cancer support organisations, including Ty Olwen at Morriston Hospital and the Cancer Information and Support Service in Uplands, Swansea.

Help Us Go the Extra Mile

As the South West Wales Cancer Centre celebrates 20 years of providing life-saving care, Swansea Bay Health Charity’s Going the Extra Mile for Cancer appeal continues to raise funds to enhance cancer services. Donations help improve facilities, provide wellbeing resources, and ensure patients receive the best possible care.

To honour the legacy of the Swansea & Gower Cancer Self Help Group and support those affected by cancer, please consider making a donation today.

🔗 Donate here

Thank you to Yvonne Young and everyone involved in the group for their years of dedication and kindness. Your legacy will continue to make a difference.