“PEOPLE with cancer can help each other out”.

That is Belcoo woman Angela Read’s mantra.

And it is with this in mind that the breast cancer survivor plans to launch Rural Fermanagh Cancer Support Group when it meets for the first time next Tuesday, November 18.

A specialist in complimentary therapies, trained by Macmillan Cancer Support, Angela hopes to reach out to those living with cancer in rural Fermanagh and show them that a cancer diagnosis is not the end of the world.

“A cancer diagnosis is heart wrenching,” she says, “It is life-changing. But it’s about turning that negative into a positive. And that’s what I hope to achieve with this support group.

“I’m passionate about helping people with cancer.” Living in Belcoo for the last eight years, Angela is aware of many people in the surrounding areas who have been touched by cancer.

Her group aims to support anyone affected by any kind of cancer -- patients, carers, family and friends, both emotionally and practically in a supportive environment.

The informal meetings, to be held on the last Tuesday of every month, will provide the opportunity to have a chat over a cup of tea and meet other people in similar situations.

Diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago, Angela says she prefers not to refer to being in ‘remission’ or use any other similar terms.

“Everyone has to be vigilant,” she advises, “Cancer is in my family. So I was always observant.” She volunteers one a week at Cancer Connect in Enniskillen and runs her own business in Belcoo, ‘Calm Complimentary Therapies’.

“But don’t make me out to be a martyr,” she says modestly, “Don’t put a halo around my head! This is not about me.

“I’m just an ordinary person who got cancer -- I’m just one in three.

“I got so much support from Cancer Connect and now I want to help others.

“And I feel meeting in a relaxed setting and chatting over a cup of tea can be very helpful especially to those facing their journey alone and rural areas can be a lonely place.” Angela hopes the group will be able to invite guest speakers to offer advice and support to those living with cancer.

The first meeting will take place in the Enterprise Centre, Railway Street, Belcoo on Tuesday night from 7pm until 9pm.