The FaceFax Association

Project 15 - Support Group

A new initiative in 2015 was the formation of the aptly named ‘Project 15’ – a Support Group for people in Northamptonshire affected by any type of cancer. Now in its fifth year, the meetings are becoming increasingly popular thanks to a wide variety of interesting and inspirational guest speakers and outings.

Much water has passed under the bridge since Carol Dunstone started the first Support Group in 1999 however, Project 15 has retained a similar remit with emphasis on providing education, information, practical help, social and emotional support. The significant difference is that anyone affected by cancer can attend and this Support Group is no longer exclusively for patients attending the Maxillofacial Unit at NGH.

 

The Dunstone Bennett Complementary Centre in association with Facefax were delighted to receive sponsorship from the Mouth Cancer Foundation to set up Project 15. The generous Gold Prize Award of £1,500 contributed towards marketing the project, covering costs of guest speakers, providing resources, outings for members and producing an information booklet.

Project 15 – Support Group meetings are held between April and October on the last Monday of each month, except Bank Holidays, from 2pm until 4pm.

“We are thrilled to award Project 15 –Support Group a grant to celebrate the incredible work they do!”
Dr Vinod Joshi
Founder of the Mouth Cancer Foundation

The inaugural meeting was held on Monday 27th April 2015 at The Dunstone Bennett Complementary Centre. Following the initial introductions a general discussion amongst the group members took place to determine topics of interest for additional meetings.

It was agreed by those present that guest speakers would be invited to deliver a short talk on a subject of interest and offer a suitable activity, with the option of joining in. Following this, ample time is allocated for afternoon tea and open discussions.

Visiting guest speakers provide talks of interest with a suitable activity that group members have the option of joining in. In order to monitor the progress of Project 15, group members are invited to complete feedback forms. Their response is taken into consideration when evaluating the project at the end of each year. 

Activities and Topics Included:

  • Relaxation and Stress Management Techniques
  • Annual Boat Trips on the Grand Union Canal
  • Annual visits to the pantomime
  • Talk by a Dietician from NGH
  • Colour and Style Analysis
  • Mindfulness Meditation
  • Creating a New Reality
  • Dental and Oral Health
  • Motivational Speaker
  • Laughter Therapy
  • Ceramic Art
  • Chair Yoga
  • Hypnosis
  • Nutrition
  • Pilates
  • Energy Medicine for the 21st Century