Posted 21 November 2024

Breast Cancer Support and Pennington Consulting supported the life writing workshop
'Writing Your Breast Story' in Christchurch on 9 November 2024

"Thank you so much, I feel grateful for the opportunity and feel motivated to do more."  
"Went above my expectations, very enjoyable and relaxing."
- Participant feedback

Under the guidance of experienced memoir writer and workshop facilitator Jane Bissell, seven women had the opportunity to write about their breast cancer experiences within a confidential and inspirational space in the first of a series of writing workshops planned for 2024-2025.  The workshop was supported by Pennington Consulting, Breast Cancer Support, and by the Canterbury/West Coast Cancer Society who donated the use of their wonderful venue. Items donated by Pennington Consulting (mouse pads, note books, pens, and the cow squeezies) were a delightful addition, as were the books donated by authors Emily Searle ('Dear Boobs') and Jane Bissell (Welcome to the Amazon Club and The Pink Party).  

The workshop encouraged those with a lived experience of breast cancer to write about that experience within a comfortable and reassuring environment. The first session explained the ‘nuts and bolts’ of storytelling and the second featured writing exercises that focussed on the breast cancer continuum of diagnosis, treatment, recovery and ‘down the track’. 

All writers produced some wonderful work, generously shared their stories with the group, and enjoyed the day. More workshops are planned for 2025 in other locations - if you would like to receive notice of these and other events, please sign up for our newsletter by clicking on the button at right.