Forever Manchester Women is our quarterly networking event which is an opportunity for women across Greater Manchester to network with a purpose, come together to raise money for female-led community projects and hear from inspirational women. Our community speaker at Forever Manchester Women on Wednesday 19th July is Karen Elliott of Bolton Cancer Voices.

Karen has been instrumental in establishing and running Bolton Cancer Voices which was was set up 14 years ago. The group aims to bring together people who are being treated for cancer to share stories and their day-to-day struggles and support each other while at the same time enjoy singing and performing as part of a choir across Bolton.

The group has grown in number over the last few years and performs at local venues across the Bolton area.

Kath is a regular visitor to Bolton Cancer Voices sessions while fighting cancer, and says she has found “heaps of support and friendship” from attending the group. Kath was diagnosed with cancer in February 2009 after some pains in her chest. This is Kath’s story…

“I reached my five year clear target in November 2014 and celebrated with holidays and other indulgences. While I can’t say my health is good, having reduced immunity and being diagnosed with seven further illnesses in the last four years, my ‘cancer journey’ has changed my life.

“My first introduction to Karen and Pam was at a Cancer Support Group. She introduced the idea of a choir and it struck me as a great idea and from the first group meeting I have been hooked.

“We have been given some wonderful opportunities to perform. Clive, the Music Director, leads us with humour and lots of patience and I just love the whole experience. I am inspired by all the people in the choir and I really appreciate the real hard work that goes on behind the scenes, which helps to make it a success.  I have made so many friends by being involved with the choir. I get a real sense of comradeship, banter and enjoyment from it all and I love performing.

“I love music, but I also love art. For me every moment is precious. I actively refuse negativity. It’s a decision/attitude/determination to never give up and to fully embrace the life given back to me.”

 

Karen will tell us more about the group, and in particular the impact of how and why being involved with a group such as Bolton Cancer Voices makes a real difference to the lives of people suffering from cancer, at Forever Manchester Women:

 

Tickets are just £20, which includes a welcome drink and canapes.

Tickets can be purchased online by using the ticketing form below or, if you wish to receive an invoice for your ticket(s), please email Cheryl Hill on cheryl@forevermanchester.com.

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Wednesday 19th July – 5-7pm
Menagerie Restaurant & Bar
New Bailey Street, Salford
M3 5JL