Looking at What 2026 Will Bring
It seems that at the end of every year, we say the phrase, 'We've been busier than ever' and this year is no different.
In 2025 we saw a 21% increase in new clients at the centre, a similar increase we saw in 2023 and 2024.
This growth is something we're really proud of but it also brings a big responsibility. More people means more needs, more questions and more opportunities to support people in meaningful ways.
We spend a lot of time listening to our clients to figure out what would help them and what's missing from the services we're currently providing. Looking ahead to next year, here's just a few things we're introducing at the centre.
Nutritionist Talks
After a cancer diagnosis, nutrition is always on our clients minds as treatment can affect appetite, weight and taste. We're starting quarterly talks with a local Nutritionist around the subject of nutrition after cancer treatment, something that's often overlooked but is incredibly important.
These sessions will give clients practical advice, answer their questions and help them feel more confident about how to nourish themselves during and after treatment.
A Focus on Men's Well Being
Cancer is indiscriminate, it affects men and women equally, with a marginal 7% difference in rates of diagnosis between the genders. Despite this roughly even split, our client numbers are vastly different. Of our near 700 clients, 80% are women and only 20% are men.
We want to combat this stark contrast by reaching out to more men, addressing their needs and providing services that will help them live with cancer.
We have talks with Errol McKellar every quarter, a Men's Well Being workshop with Look Good Feel Better and other varied service planned, all with the hope of providing support to more men.
More Counselling
Cancer is overwhelming and dealing with the feelings attached to a diagnosis can be difficult. From diagnosis, through treatment and far beyond cancer can seep into all aspects of life.
That is why receiving emotional support is so important. It's an opportunity to discuss feelings openly in a safe space and explore ways to cope with all the changes. People generally find it easier to open up to a counsellor with conversations they might not feel comfortable having with family or friends.
With over 90% of our new clients looking for counselling and an expected increase in new clients next year, we've taken on 9 new counsellors already, in preparation for the predicted surge in need for this particular service.
Every client that walks through our doors is looking for a different type of support.
Our goal is to keep evolving to meet their needs, offering services that don't just fill a schedule but genuinely meet people where they are.
And with nearly 700 clients (and counting), that work has never been more important!
A sneak peak at tomorrow's giving story...
Introducing our newest team member, our Fundraising Manager
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