Celebrating Five Years Cancer Survival

Hounslow resident raises money for The Mulberry Centre

Damni Soni, a local Hounslow resident, celebrated passing her 5 year survival mark by walking 5k in June. Damni walked the 5k in Osterley Park with her previous work colleagues and raised over £700 for The Mulberry Centre.

Damni, 57, was diagnosed with an aggressive tumour in her jaw in 2011. She needed to undergo extensive surgery to remove the cancer and was informed that she might not make it past 5 years. After nearly thirteen hours of surgery Damni had to undergo 6 weeks of intensive chemotherapy and then further radiotherapy.

The diagnosis and operation had a major impact on Damni’s life and for the first few years she didn’t want to talk about her cancer. Friends of Damni had mentioned The Mulberry Centre and the practical and emotional support it provided to people affected by cancer but it was 3 years before she was able to walk through the door. Damni said “The minute I walked through the door I felt at peace.  The volunteers were so warm and welcoming and offered me a cup of tea straight away. I have been able to meet other people in a similar situation to me and it really made a difference to be able to share my experience with them. Over the years I have taken part in Yoga, Nia dance and Tai Chi which have really helped me deal with the cancer. Recently I’ve even started a writing course which is something I never imagined myself doing!”

Emma Cartwright, Chief Executive at The Mulberry Centre said “We were thrilled that Damni chose to support the Centre in this way. With her first-hand experience, Damni is well aware of the huge impact that her fundraising will make on those diagnosed with cancer. Fundraising efforts like this make a huge difference to ensure we continue to provide the support we do.”

Show your support for Damni and The Mulberry Centre by making a donation at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Damni-Soni

If you are interested in taking up a challenge, whether it’s shaving your head, holding a cream tea or running a 5k, please do get in touch with the Community Fundraiser by emailing gurpreet.keila@themulberrycentre.co.uk

July 6, 2016