TWO CANCER survivors who volunteer at a charity shop in Yate are urging others to show support as World Cancer Day approaches.

Sandra Hill and Stephen Matthews, who volunteer at the Cancer Research UK shop in Yate Shopping Centre, are hoping people will support the charity and buy ‘unity bands’ to wear on the national day on Wednesday, February 4.

World Cancer Day is marked to raise awareness of cancer and to promote its prevention, detection, and treatment.

Sandra Hill, 53, from Emersons Green, was diagnosed with childhood leukaemia when an infant and went through chemotherapy treatment.

Five years ago she suffered from an epileptic fit and tests showed she had a brain tumour.

She said: “I was in my late forties when I first had a fit and my husband called an ambulance. It was really frightening. I am now on medication but have gone through radiotherapy to tackle the tumours and so I do fully support research into cancer and the need to raise funds to continue with it.

“I am so grateful for the treatment that saved my life. Now I want to do everything I can to urge people to fight back against this devastating disease.”

Mr Matthews, 47, was 13 years-old when he underwent treatment for two and a half years and relapsed three years later resulting in further chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Mr Matthews said: “I was devastated when I was diagnosed but thanks to research and treatment, I’m still here today. That’s why I’m backing Cancer Research UK and encouraging everyone to get a unity band now.”

The pair volunteer two to three days a week at the charity shop will be wearing a special unity wrist band, made of two parts which form a knot to represent strength in unity.

Alison Birkett, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the South West, said: “Thanks to advances being made in research, a small donation can really make a big difference. Success stories like Sandra and Steve’s would not be possible without the commitment of our supporters, who fund the charity’s life-saving work.”

“So on February 4th we are calling on people in the South West to unite and remember those lost to cancer, celebrate the survivors, and rally in support of those currently fighting cancer.”

Cancer Research UK researchers have played a key role in supporting landmark advances in cancer treatment including tamoxifen for breast cancer and cisplatin for testicular cancer.

The unity bands are available in a range of colours from all Cancer Research UK shops for a suggested donation of £2.

To find out more visit www.cruk.org/worldcancerday.