Newsletter February 2025
A special message for our members
I want to take a moment to thank you—for being here, for caring, and for making a difference. As President of Cancer Support France - Île-de-France, I am continually inspired by the kindness and generosity of people like you. Cancer is not just a medical battle—it’s an emotional and personal one, often overwhelming and lonely. That’s why our work matters. We provide a space for support, comfort, and understanding, because sometimes, knowing someone is there makes all the difference.
Our volunteers, members, and supporters are the heart of this community. Whether you offer time, kind words, organize events, or raise awareness, your contribution matters. Every act of support strengthens our network of care. At its core, this is about people helping people—offering hope and reassurance when it’s needed most. If you’re already involved, thank you. If you’d like to join, we’d love to welcome you. Let’s continue showing up for each other and reminding those affected by cancer that they are never alone.
World Cancer Day: United by Unique
This February marks World Cancer Day, a global initiative that has made a profound impact since its launch by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) in 2000. This year's theme, "United by Unique," resonates deeply with our mission at CSF Paris-IDF, as it reflects the personal nature of each cancer experience.
The UICC's powerful message captures the essence of our work:
“Cancer is more than just a medical diagnosis—it's a deeply personal matter. Behind every diagnosis lies a unique human story—stories of grief, pain, healing, resilience, love and more. That's why a people-centred approach to cancer care that fully integrates each individual's unique needs, with compassion and empathy, leads to the best health outcomes.”
At CSF Paris-IDF, this individual-centred approach defines everything we do. Our active listeners engage with English-speaking people affected by cancer, offering compassionate support that acknowledges each person's unique journey.
Healing Plates: Cooking for Cancer Recovery
To commemorate World Cancer Day, we hosted a special virtual fundraising event. Our dedicated, energetic team members Robynne Pendariès and Kate Ogden organised a dynamic Zoom session with nutritionists Lynn Burns and Dr Laura Wyness, who generously shared valuable insights about nutrition during cancer treatment whilst demonstrating healthy cooking techniques. The kind donations received will support our active listener training programme.
In Loving Memory
We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sue Smith, National President of CSF, as we prepared this newsletter. Her dedication and compassion touched many lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire our work.
We also remember Gigi Mackenzie, a valued ExCo member, who passed away in November 2024. Her warmth and commitment to CSF Paris-IDF will always be cherished.
Their contributions will never be forgotten, and we honor their memory as we continue our mission.
Recent Achievements: Strengthening Our Community
Our team has made significant progress across several areas:
- Under Kate Ogden's leadership, we've welcomed new members who have transformed our social media presence
- Mais Najib, together with Brooke Demchuk and Desmond Nde, has revolutionised our online communication strategy
- David Sweet has strengthened our digital infrastructure, focusing on data compliance and membership management
- Sarah Bureau's meticulous financial oversight has ensured our continued stability
- Rick Sherfey reported that CSF National secured vital funding from the Hartford Charitable Foundation for our National Active Listener conference
- Alison Friedman has taken on the crucial role of National representative
- Janet Rubinstein continues to provide outstanding support through our helpline service
- Sisters Linda Haylock and Pam Combastet lead dynamic outreach efforts in the US expat community
- Héctor Bastidas continues to produce the newsletter
- Patsy Gorlier and Christine Yang have made valuable contributions
I want to thank everyone on the team for their exceptional work.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Growth and Impact
We're excited to announce several new initiatives:
- Support groups: Under Judy Liebowitz's leadership, we're launching a pilot program of support groups, with plans for broader implementation after successful trials
- Enhanced outreach: We plan to expand our partnerships with key organizations including AP-HP, CESC, Rose-Up, and La Ligue contre le cancer, while extending our services to the Paris Indian-subcontinent community
As we evolve, our leadership team will see some changes. I will step down as president this summer after completing my tenure, while Mais Najib will become our new training coordinator and Brooke Demchuk will lead our social media efforts.
We are deeply grateful to all who support CSF Paris-IDF through donations and other contributions. Your generosity enables us to provide essential support to English-speaking people affected by cancer in the Paris-IDF region.
Guy Rodwell
President
Cancer Support France (Paris & Île-de-France)
Activities from last quarter
October Rose at St. Louis Hospital
In October CSF - IDF proudly participated in the #OctoberRose event at St. Louis Hospital, we helped raise awareness for breast cancer and emphasized the importance of support for those touched by cancer.
We stand with survivors, families, and caregivers, offering a safe space through our support groups to navigate the challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis.
Participation at the US Embassy Service Day
CSF Île-de-France proudly participated in the US Embassy Service Day, an event that brought together various organizations to showcase their missions and services. This was a fantastic opportunity to promote Cancer Support France to embassy employees, raising awareness about our work supporting English-speaking individuals affected by cancer.
It also allowed us to network and connect with other anglophone associations, fostering collaboration and mutual support within the community. The event was a meaningful platform to highlight our commitment to making a difference and strengthening partnerships that help us reach and support more people in need.
Cancer Support France at the Course de Lumières
Last year, Cancer Support France proudly participated in the Course de Lumières 2024, a moving and inspiring event dedicated to raising awareness and supporting research in the fight against cancer.
Our team joined hundreds of participants in this luminous evening run/walk, lighting up the streets with hope and solidarity for all those affected by this disease. It was a powerful moment of unity and purpose, and we are grateful to everyone who supported our efforts to make a difference.
Together, we shone a light on the path toward a brighter, cancer-free future.
English-speaking Mum's Living in Paris (ESM)
English-speaking Mums Living in Paris (ESM) has officially partnered with Cancer Support France - Paris (CSF) in November.
The generous proceeds of ESM's fabulous "The Christmas Sparkle Rescue" holiday show on 8th December have been kindly donated to CSF accordingly. The funds will be used primarily to train CSF's Active Listeners to serve our community.
Thank you for your support and for your belief in doing good. None of our success would be possible without generous donors like you!
Fundraising events
Virtual Cooking Event - Healing Plates: Empowering cancer recovery through nutrition
On February 4th, we hosted Healing Plates: Empowering Cancer Recovery Through Nutrition, a virtual cooking event highlighting the vital role of food in the healing process. Registered nutritionist Lynn Burns, in conversation with Robynne Pendaries from Cancer Support France, shared expert insights on how balanced nutrition can support recovery.
Lynn prepared two nourishing recipes from the Recipes for Recovery booklet, co-authored with Dr. Laura Wyness, featuring ingredients rich in antioxidants, protein, and essential vitamins to aid healing. It was an inspiring session with a wonderful group of participants, emphasizing how mindful eating can empower well-being during recovery.
2024 Expenses' Summary
Great majority attributed to travel and accommodation and costs associated with AL training and National meeting
The rest of expenses were for fixed costs, such as: Annual affiliation fee, Bank fees and Insurance.
How You Can Help CSF: Membership & Donations 2025
If you wish to contribute or get more involved, we encourage you to visit our website or contact us directly.
You can renew your membership as an Active Member or be a donor and Supporting Member, by filling out the 2025 membership form here.
Please consider renewing your membership and/or making a donation through PayPal. Our PayPal link to make a donation is here.
Every small contribution counts and makes a significant impact possible.
We want to be social with you!
Help Line 0800 240 200
Joint Project with AAWE for the American Hospital of Paris
Last week, our Cancer Support France branch, represented by our volunteer Robynne Pendaries, had the privilege of participating in a joint project of donating heart pillows to the American Hospital of Paris for women recovering from breast cancer surgery. These beautiful, handcrafted pillows were made with love by the talented women of AAWE (Association of American Women in Europe), with Leslie Charbonnel, representing the AAWE Handicrafters. 💖
These pillows provide comfort and support for women during their recovery, and we're so grateful for the dedication and care shown by everyone involved. It’s a small but meaningful gesture that makes a big difference. 💪
Thank you to all the incredible women who helped make this project possible!
CancerSupport #BreastCancerAwareness #CommunityCare AAWE HeartPillows MakingADifference
Featured in the photo below are Professeur Mahasti Saghatchian, Oncologue médicale, Chef du pôle d’oncologie; Dr Myriam Delomenie, Chirurgienne cancérologue; Dr. Marie Mikayelyan, Chirurgienne gynécologue; Mme Jeanne-Elise Tachdijan, Pink Lady Volontaire from the American Hospital of Paris, Leslie Charbonnel from AAWE, and Robynne Pendaries from Cancer Support France.
Virtual Cooking Event Healing Plates: Empowering cancer recovery through nutrition
On February 4th, we hosted Healing Plates: Empowering Cancer Recovery Through Nutrition, a virtual cooking event highlighting the vital role of food in the healing process. Registered nutritionist Lynn Burns, in conversation with Robynne Pendaries from Cancer Support France, shared expert insights on how balanced nutrition can support recovery.
Lynn prepared two nourishing recipes from the Recipes for Recovery booklet, co-authored with Dr. Laura Wyness, featuring ingredients rich in antioxidants, protein, and essential vitamins to aid healing. It was an inspiring session with a wonderful group of participants, emphasizing how mindful eating can empower well-being during recovery.
English-speaking Mum's Living in Paris (ESM)
English-speaking Mums Living in Paris (ESM) has officially partnered with Cancer Support France - Paris (CSF) in November.
The generous proceeds of ESM's fabulous "The Christmas Sparkle Rescue" holiday show on 8th December have been kindly donated to CSF accordingly. The funds will be used primarily to train CSF's Active Listeners to serve our community.
Thank you for your support and for your belief in doing good. None of our success would be possible without generous donors like you!
Cancer Support France at the Course de Lumières
Last year, Cancer Support France proudly participated in the Course de Lumières 2024, a moving and inspiring event dedicated to raising awareness and supporting research in the fight against cancer.
Our team joined hundreds of participants in this luminous evening run/walk, lighting up the streets with hope and solidarity for all those affected by this disease. It was a powerful moment of unity and purpose, and we are grateful to everyone who supported our efforts to make a difference.
Together, we shone a light on the path toward a brighter, cancer-free future.
US Embassy Service Day
Cancer Support France Paris & Île-de-France participated in the US Embassy Service Day on 15th October to promote the organisation to Embassy employees and connect with other anglophone associations which share strong synergies with CSF.
October Rose at Saint-Louis Hospital
Last Wednesday, Cancer Support France & Île-de-France proudly participated in the October Rose event at Saint-Louis Hospital. Together, we helped raise awareness for breast cancer and emphasised the importance of support for those, touched by cancer. 💕
We stand with survivors, families, and caregivers, offering a safe space through our support groups to navigate the challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. No one has to face this journey alone.
Thank you to everyone who came out to show support and to the amazing team at Saint-Louis Hospital for hosting such a meaningful event! 🙌
