Anne Pike - Head of the Fountain Centre
Anne Pike - Head of the Fountain Centre
Anne Pike is the Head of the Fountain Centre - an independent Charity that works closely with St Luke’s Cancer Centre and Royal Surrey to support cancer patients.
“How a cancer diagnosis feels is incomprehensible until it happens. When people first come to see us they are often feeling confused, vulnerable and detached from their own lives. We offer patients a safe space to explore and understand their emotions during our counselling sessions.
"Patients also come to us to help ease some of the side effects of cancer and cancer treatment with our complementary therapies, such as massage and acupuncture, or to feel a bit more like themselves with our wig service – it’s amazing to be able to give people this boost.
"A cancer diagnosis affects the whole family, so we don’t just see patients. Thanks to funding from the Big Lottery Reaching Communities, since 2017 we have been able to offer counselling to the families of newly-diagnosed cancer patients; helping people pull through an incredibly difficult time together.
"The patients are at the heart of everything we do. I am lucky to be part of such a dedicated team and incredibly thankful to the 60 volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time and expertise to keep our service running.
"On a personal level, it is a privilege to work with St Luke’s and help people through one of the most difficult situations life can throw at them.”