Cancer Focus NI choir reunites via Zoom

The Sing for Life choir, which supports people affected by cancer, was temporarily silenced during the coronavirus lockdown - but now members have been reunited via Zoom. The choir, which has over 100 members, are practising, learning new songs and reconnecting with each other.
By The Newsroom
Published 9th Jul 2020, 09:29 BST
Updated 9th Jul 2020, 10:32 BST

Dervilia Kernaghan, head of care services, Cancer Focus NI, said: “Our choir was created to help give patients and people recovering from cancer a chance to meet others in a similar situation and to share time together in a friendly, supportive environment. Our new practice sessions are working very well so far and everyone is enjoying being back in contact again..”

“The first session was a bit of a disaster, at least until I found that magical ‘Mute All’ button,” choirmaster Keith Acheson laughed. “But certainly over the past few weeks the members, including myself, have become more and more comfortable with the format. It certainly is a very different type of choir practice but, most importantly, it has allowed the majority of choir members to meet up and have a bit of fun.”

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Cancer Focus NI also recently re-opened its 12 charity. The charity has been able to continue counselling, family support and stop smoking services online, though at a much reduced level. However, the cancellation of fundraising events means that it is facing a dramatic 80 per cent loss of income.

You can support Cancer Focus NI by making a donation today on cancerfocusni.org/appeal, text FOCUS to 70660 to donate £5 or text FOCUS £10 to 70660 to donate £10.

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