Published on: 2 February 2026
A group of cancer patients are helping reshape support services across Sunderland and South Tyneside by turning their own experiences into action.
Each year, around 30% of the Trust’s cancer patients are diagnosed with stage 4 incurable cancer. The award winning Living with Cancer Project Team is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with treatable but not curable cancer. It brings patients, carers and professionals together to reimagine what supportive care should look like.
To mark World Cancer Day on Wednesday 4 February, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust is sharing the stories of four individuals, who are helping reshape what it means to live well with cancer.
Alyson Thompson was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Although treatment was challenging and changed how she saw herself, she slowly rebuilt her strength and confidence.
After nearly 15 cancer free years, Alyson received the news in 2023 that her cancer had returned. With support from her family, care team and a local support group, she found renewed strength and connection. Alyson now chooses to live each day fully - travelling, spending time with family and embracing joy wherever she can.
She shared:
“Living with treatable but incurable cancer has reshaped my outlook. I’m more appreciative of the life I have and the people around me. I love my life, and I have had the biggest wake up call to live every day to the full."
Trisha Davies, a medical secretary at the Trust, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, in June 2020 at the height of the pandemic. Hearing the words “cancer” and “incurable” left her facing one of the darkest moments of her life.
Initially isolated and unsure where to turn, she later discovered the Trust’s Incurable but Treatable Cancer Support Group, which she describes as a turning point. She soon learned that rapid advances in treatment were giving people like her the chance to live longer and manage the condition well.
Trisha shared:
“The group became a turning point for me. The group has given me connection, hope and a safe place to share experiences. It helps me, and others, to see that an incurable diagnosis does not mean life stops.”
Two other group members have decided to go one step further. After being inspired by the group and wanting to make sure more support is available for cancer patients.
Robert Carling, who was diagnosed with penile in January 2023, has been working with the Trust and prostate cancer charity Tackle to establish a support group for men with all types of cancer.
He said:
“My involvement has been deeply rewarding and has allowed me to give something meaningful back while supporting other men facing similar challenges.”
Darren Giles, diagnosed with bowel cancer in July 2023, recognised the need for a safe, social space for men to talk openly about their experiences. He set up the Facebook community Sunderland Cancer Group for Men, which now has 67 members and continues to grow.
He said:
“I set up the page for men who are like minded and need a chat, coffee or walk to help deal with the stresses of cancer. It doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom, as having positivity helps so much.”
The group (pictured below) now hosts monthly meet ups and has expanded to welcome women with cancer, as well as relatives and friends supporting someone with a diagnosis.
Caroline Tweedie, Lead Cancer Nurse at STSFT, pictured below with some of the Living With Cancer Project Team, shared:
“Being told your cancer cannot be cured is life changing and around a third of our patients face that reality. Advances in treatment mean many can now live long and fulfilling lives while managing their condition, but the emotional and physical impact can be significant. Our focus is not only on improving care but on reshaping how we talk about incurable cancer so that people feel understood, supported and able to live with hope.”
Find out more about cancer services at STSFT: www.stsft.nhs.uk/services/cancer-services
