A new initiative offering support and a comprehensive resource hub to Jersey residents affected by cancer has been established.
Launched to coincide with World Cancer Day on 4th February, cancer.JE aims to provide helpful information to people in Jersey, from cancer patients and their loved ones to carers, employers and medical professionals. The initiative has been founded by Lorna Pirozzolo, who developed the idea for cancer.JE after her own cancer diagnosis in 2018 and is now an active member of the Jersey Cancer Support Network.
The online resource hub features guidance for those living with cancer, summaries of key information, and links to a wide range of services. This includes links to statutory government services, tips provided by cancer patients, off-island treatment details, and stories from people directly affected by cancer. An online directory featuring charities, support groups, community groups and businesses selling essential products will also be launching in the near future.
Commenting on the launch of cancer.JE, Lorna Pirozzolo said: “There are so many unknowns when it comes to cancer, from understanding work-based implications and expectations around treatments to managing personal relationships. With this new initiative, we’re aiming to build a supportive and helpful community informed by real experience and empathy, especially during that whirlwind time after first diagnosis. I’m thrilled to see our vision come to fruition and thank everyone involved for helping bring our plans to life.”
Lauren Perchard-Rees, Chairwoman of the Jersey Cancer Support Network and Macmillan Jersey Executive Director, added:
“Many people directly and indirectly affected by cancer require extensive support throughout their experience. It can be a confusing and very challenging time, and it can be difficult to find all the available support resources – let alone fully understand much of the complex information at hand. This new initiative is very welcome and will provide much needed assistance to all those seeking it, as well as reinforce the strong community and support network we have on the island.”
cancer.JE will be governed by a small voluntary committee, ideally including cancer patients, family members of patients, and a cancer professional. The website and resource hub has been developed and donated by Jersey-based technology consultancy Corefocus.
Matt Van Sanden, Managing Director of Corefocus, said: “From our first conversation, it was clear there was a compelling vision and a clear need for this initiative and the value that it will provide to the Jersey community. We’re delighted to support Lorna and the cancer.JE team, and look forward to further developing the resource hub for the benefit of all those affected by cancer.”
