News Archive

DBS gets behind FACT cancer charity

(17 May 2011)

Joanne with Prof Rob Dixon and Cllr Mac Williams

Cancer charity FACT (Fighting All Cancers Together), aims to create a one-stop-shop for people suffering from all types of cancer and for their family and friends.

FACT was founded in 2008 by Durham Business School alumna Joanne Smith following her own personal experience of cancer.

Joanne was diagnosed with Breast cancer in 2005, aged 34, on her daughters 2nd birthday. Her son was seven.  Joanne is very aware of the impact cancer has within a family - all family members are affected.

Joanne said “It’s not all been negative.  I believe in positive attitudes and I’ve been overwhelmed by kindness, loyalty and friendship.

I became aware of the need for opportunities for support, awareness and social interaction, in a happy friendly atmosphere, with people in similar situations. To meet and share common issues and help each other find support is an essential part of the treatment process.

As a result of the charities growth over the last 3 years, FACT is now working towards opening the UK’s first Cancer Support Awareness and Education Centre in the North East.

The Centre will involve the whole community – local people, local families and local businesses.  This new innovative way of thinking has been given the backing of not only the medical profession, but also local MP’s, local businesses, local social groups and hundreds of people in the North East.

Durham Business School is one of FACT’s many supporters - Joanne was diagnosed with cancer whilst studying for her master’s degree in enterprise management at Durham Business School, Joanne says:

“It became a personal goal to get my masters degree despite, and in some ways to spite, cancer! It was difficult but I'm so pleased I did it.  I think of the team at Durham as my friends, and they were a huge support and encouragement to me, not only with respect to the coursework, but also personally - they are wonderful people!”

Both staff and students at the School rallied round Joanne and helped make sure she was able to meet her deadlines, despite having to fit studying in around her condition and its treatment.

Professor Rob Dixon, Dean of Durham Business School, comments:

“Everyone here at the School is thrilled to see one of their graduates fulfilling a dream and achieving success. Joanne’s determination and positivity has been as inspiration to us all.

“We all wish Joanne every success with the charity and, to demonstrate our support, the Business School has agreed to assist by distributing information packs from FACT on their Cancer Centre fundraising project, at every suitable opportunity.”

If you want to offer your support to FACT or obtain further information, please contact: Joanne Smith, Chief Executive  & Founder, FACT, PO BOX 271, Newcastle, NE16 9AH. Or email joanne@fact-cancersupport.co.uk