What is Bosom Pals?

Bosom Pals is a Breast Cancer Support Group based in Bedford.  The Group is run entirely by volunteers who have all been diagnosed with breast cancer.  The Group was established in 1995 by two nurses who were friends and who had both had treatment for breast cancer.  About 15 ladies attended the first meeting and so the group was borne.  The early members were delighted that at last they could speak to others who were going through or had gone through similar problems and fears.  They were able to exchange experiences and feelings and support each other.  The group grew from strength to strength and in 1996 a committee was formed to share the workload.  At about the same time that the Group was formed Bedford Hospital appointed a Breast Care Nurse, Gloria Shingler.  Gloria supported the group whole heartedly and still continues to do so, along with her colleague Elizabeth Wiggins, the second breast care nurse appointed some time later.  Either Gloria or Elizabeth attend our meetings and the group would not be the success it is today without the support we continually receive for our two wonderful breast care nurses.  

In 2000 the Group was successful in achieving Registered Charity status and in 2005 we were delighted to announce the appointment of Gail Emms, the Bedford born Commonwealth Gold medallist Badminton player as Patron.

What does Bosom Pals Offer?

In the 11 years since the group was established more than 100 ladies have benefited in some way through contact with the Group.  An average of between 20-30 members attends our monthly meetings.  Some have attended regularly since those early days when the group was first formed, others are relatively new members, some just starting treatments or going through hair loss.  Some come and go, only attending meetings or getting in touch when they feel the need or are interested in a particular speaker/demonstrator.  This is probably one of the Group’s biggest strengths – being there when needed but not intruding into people’s lives when their need has been fulfilled.  Sadly we have some very young members, in their late 20s, some young mothers with young children and the age range extends to ladies in their 80s.  

In addition to patients themselves, the Group provides support for families and friends, offering practical information and a willingness just to listen to concerns and feelings and to share experiences.