Cancer sufferer gives birthday money to charity

Five years ago, the outlook was bleak for Joyce Southall. After being diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma aged 65, her family didn’t think she would make it to her next birthday. But against all odds, Joyce from Coven, Wolverhampton turned 70 last month and celebrated the milestone with a big birthday bash.

And instead of her guests bringing presents, Joyce asked them to donate money to the Lymphoma Association, a charity that provides medical information and support to anyone affected by lymphatic cancer.

She said: “I wanted to give something back to the charity that has helped me throughout my lymphoma experience. I feel lucky to be here so I wanted to do something that would benefit other lymphoma sufferers.”

Because of her kindness, the party, which was held at Coven Memorial Hall, raised £1200 for the charity. Joyce said: “We had an absolutely fabulous night. I only have a small family but a lot of friends were there and they all gave generously.”

She will present a cheque to the charity at the Lymphoma Association Support Group in Stafford on January 15.

She said: “I’ve been attending their meetings for about four years now. It’s great to meet others in a similar situation to me and to also have fun at the same time; we often go out for meals together. We’re hoping that more people will join in the New Year.”

If you would like to join the support group, log on to Lymphomas.org.uk.