Selfcare Workshops for Young People with Cancer

In our last report, we were preparing for the next in our series of beauty workshops for young people battling cancer. In the middle of September, we made our way to the London Head Quarters of global tech company, our corporate partner, Ricoh. The building itself is quite something to behold, and the young people headed to the 22^nd floor, where they were greeted by a wall of glass, perfectly showcasing iconic views across the London Skyline.

Joining us for this event were our old friends, the very talented ladies from Look Good Feel Better, who join us every time, bringing with them their “Confidence Kits”. As they always do, these lovely ladies got to know who they would be looking after on the day, taking time to understand their skin tones and skin condition, and any special “needs” that they had, so that the gift bag they received was totally personalised.

The young people at the workshop were taught professional techniques to help them deal with an uneven skin tone, recreate missing eyebrows to frame their face, and how to create the effect of eyelashes that are so often lost through treatment. From the stroke of a pencil to a splash of lip colour, these amazing ladies volunteered their time to teach the young people all sorts of tips and tricks that help to rebuild confidence and self-esteem.

As well as the workshop, the young people enjoyed a delicious lunch together, a real opportunity to get to know others in a similar situation, and this is where the bonds were really formed, with many of them walking away with phone numbers and social media connections of new friends and a whole new support network.

As the workshop came to a close, while still taking in the incredible views of our iconic Capital City, we enjoyed some relaxing and pampering mini treatments - we were treated to hand massage and nail painting as we watched the sun set.

Here's what some of the young people said about the event

"I've learnt new ways on how to apply makeup, making me feel more confident." - Caitlin, 15, Ovarian Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumour Stage 3B

"I was able to meet others like myself and just be myself and be understood, I learnt some mistakes I was making whilst applying makeup."  - Maarya, 22, Duodenal and bowel cancer

"The activity helped me feel more positive and has provided me more friendship and support…. Meeting others and getting to know them. Doing the makeover with help/guidance from the makeup artists. Learning new makeup tips and a free make up bag full with amazing products. Also, the view was beautiful."- Husna, 17, Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia