Cancer Focus hits a high note

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland is singing from the roof tops about its brand new Sing for Life choir which is open to anyone affected by cancer – patients, carers or relatives.

The choir is being run in partnership with the Crescent Arts Centre in Belfast where the first weekly meeting will be held on Monday 17th September at 6pm.

Liz Atkinson, Head of Care Services, Cancer Focus (the new name for the Ulster Cancer Foundation), said, “We are really excited about this new project for cancer patients, their families and those who care for them.

“We would love anyone who is interested to come along and join in. You can have a cup of tea, a chat and learn some new singing skills. You don’t need any experience and it doesn’t matter if you are a brilliant singer or just sing in the shower – there are no auditions as we believe every voice counts,” she said.

“The emphasis will very much be on meeting people and having fun and enjoyment. Research from Wales shows that singing in a choir can be extremely therapeutic for patients as it improved quality of life and self-esteem, and helped with pain relief and coping with depression.

“We will be singing mostly up-beat, uplifting songs, and when the choir is ready we hope to start giving small concerts which will give the singers focus and motivation. The choir could also perform at a few of our fundraising events in the future.”

Liz recently paid a visit to a choir set up by the Welsh cancer charity Tenovus and found it truly inspiring. “Everyone involved was so enthusiastic - they love belonging to their choir, having a good time and meeting new people who are going through similar experiences. You couldn’t help but want to join in. 

“One of their choir members said, ‘You can be feeling dreadful but you go to choir and feel better because you’ve sung your heart out and been with people who love you.’”

Dr Keith Acheson, who is manager of the Crescent Arts Centre, will be the choirmaster, and pianist Megan Boyd is also a member of staff at the centre.

Keith said, “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Cancer Focus Northern Ireland in the formation of what will be a very special choir at the Crescent Arts Centre.  It is particularly pleasing that both myself and Megan can be involved in shaping its musical direction and most importantly fostering a relaxed environment in which every voice, trained or otherwise, will be truly valued.

Anyone who would like to know more about the choir or any other service is invited to contact Toby Wheeler at Cancer Focus Northern Irelandon 029 9068 0776 or email tobywheeler@cancerfocusni.org.

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For further information please contact:

Pauline Wylie, PR & Events Manager, Cancer Focus on

028 9066 3281 / 07810 371118

or

Marie Foy, PR & Events Officer, Cancer Focus on

028 9066 3281 / 07736 358692