A WOMBWELL woman who credits a local cancer support centre with helping rebuild her life following a diagnosis has decided to give back through an ambitious 12-month challenge.

Chelsea Cunliffe, 48, is taking on a year-long programme of fundraising events for The Well, Barnsley’s specialist cancer support centre in the town centre - culminating in a tandem skydive from 15,000 feet in April next year.

She was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2021 and, during one of the most difficult parts of her life, she was introduced to The Well.

The service provides free complementary therapies, emotional support and wellbeing activities for people living with and beyond cancer.

Now, determined to give back, Chelsea has set herself a £2,500 fundraising target and will spend the next year organising a series of events, including raffles, an evening of music and an afternoon tea, leading up to her skydive challenge.

She said: “The Well was exactly what I needed after my diagnosis.

“Through the service, I accessed therapies and attended support groups and coffee mornings, where I met others going through similar experiences.

“What started as support quickly became something much deeper.

“The Well has become like a family to me and my husband Nigel - we’ve made friends for life.

“Those friendships have helped us through some very difficult times.

“The Well gave me hope, friendship and support when I needed it most.

“If I can help make sure it’s there for someone else facing cancer, then every penny raised will be worth it.”

The Well relies on charitable donations to provide its services free of charge to patients and their families.

Team leader Julie Brearley said: “It has been a privilege to watch Chelsea’s journey over the last few years.

“From those first difficult moments after diagnosis, to seeing her grow in confidence and now take on this incredible fundraising challenge - it is truly inspiring.

“Every pound she raises will help us continue providing free support, therapies and wellbeing services to local people affected by cancer.

“We’ll be cheering her on every step of the way.”

Charity development manager at Barnsley Hospital Charity, Jane Mills, added: “A cancer diagnosis affects every aspect of a person’s life.

“Chelsea’s determination to give back speaks volumes about both her character and the impact that services like The Well can have.

“We are incredibly grateful for her support.”

n A link to the fundraiser can be found on the Barnsley Chronicle website.