A CANCER patient is on a mission to make a difference to other cancer sufferers in Weymouth and Portland.

Peter Meacham, 54, and from Preston is hoping to launch a cancer support group for the borough as he feels this is something important that it lacks.

Peter said: “I had a cancer diagnosis confirmed in February of this year. I had some really great medical care at the hospital and started a course of chemotherapy, which I finished in July and I am now awaiting surgery. But I felt that when I was discharged there was a bit of a vacuum and lack of information and support. I heard about a group in Bridport called The Living Tree. They are a fantastic group. I found it a great support to be able to talk to people in similar situations. And they organise some really great workshops which are so beneficial.

“It just struck me that Weymouth and Portland is quite a large area that doesn’t have anything really like this. And for people who are using public transport, Bridport is a long way to go. There is a support group in Dorchester called Butterflies but I just feel that there should be something a bit more local for anyone living in Weymouth and Portland.”

Peter therefore decided to hold an open meeting at Sainsbury’s café to gather ideas and see what level of interest there is for a borough cancer support group which he wants to call C’Siders. Peter will also be looking for anyone who wants to get involved in the organisation of the group.

He added: “The name C’Siders just came to me in a flash of inspiration and seemed to encapsulate the location and the condition. Having heard people often refer to cancer as the C word, it seemed natural to use the play on our seaside location.

“I have had a few people get in contact with me and have said they are interested. And another person has said they would love to be involved in the organisation. Anyone who would like to come along it would be great to meet you. Tracy Street from Macmillan Cancer Support will also be attending and helping us out with how to get started. I have spoken to the oncology team at Dorset County Hospital and Trimar Hospice who are both very supportive are the idea. I want to compliment the work they do.

“I want to hear what people need and want in the area. I would like to hold regular meetings and do something similar to The Living Tree and host workshops too - on things like healthy eating and exercise which are really instrumental in fighting cancer.”

Anyone interested in attending the meeting at Sainsbury’s café on Monday from 7.30pm should contact Peter by emailing csiders@btinternet.com or phoning 0772 961 7748.