When Maria Elliott was diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago, she found the friendships she made at the time were a lifesaver.
“I met like-minded people at Breast Cancer Haven in Leeds. We really bonded and it was like a virtual hug, helping you through,” she explained.
She was already coping with a lot. A part-time job, caring for her Mum who had Alzheimer’s as well as coming to terms with cancer, and although friends told her to concentrate on her own health, she didn’t feel she had the time.
Now she feels she has come out of the other side, she wants to give back. She’s helped to raise funds for Sherine’s Appeal to fund cold caps for Pinderfields Chemotherapy department. Maria and her sister, Lisa both had their head shaved and raised more than £5,000 with stalls and an auction.
“I love giving back and it makes me very happy. Now is my time to do something I enjoy,” she added.
As well as signing up to become a Digital Champion, Maria who works for Housing 21 Leasing Team in Bradford, volunteers for Maggie’s Yorkshire each week.
The Centre is next to the Bexley Wing, and family members tend to pop into Maggie’s while waiting for their loved ones to have treatment or attend appointments.
Maria enjoys putting visitors at ease, listening and chatting. The environment is comfortable, calm and non-medical.
Maria is pictured on the right with her sister Lisa after having their heads shaved to raise funds for Sherine’s Cold Caps Appeal.