About Me
H ello , My name is Jemma , 44 , married to Mark and Mum to Louis, Magnus and Bronwen.
Join me as I embark on a mission to empower businesses to support their staff with compassion, understanding and empathy. To help those with cancer advocate for themselves. Together lets make a difference.
Having being diagnosed with Kidney ( and thyroid ) Cancer on New Years Eve 2020, I have been on a journey of unexpected twists and turns. This journey has taught me how to advocate for myself , and to question those who make decisions that affect you , your health , your job and your family. I am hoping that this website will allow me to share all I have learnt.
During this time, I have spoken at numerous events about my journey, including a 1,600-strong Diversity in Grocery event at the O2 in London, cancer prevention and awareness seminars, online news articles, and the CIPD ACE Conference. I regularly speak at workplace mental health and wellbeing events, helping organisations better understand how to support employees through serious illness.
After seeing the poor way that fellow cancer patients were treated by their workplace during their treatment I went back to college to gain my CIPD level 5 qualification, so was able to impact policies and support businesses and employees to support cancer patients legally and ethically.
Alongside my speaking work, I am the Patient and Public Lead for a kidney cancer trial, contributing directly to vital research and improvements in patient experience. I also sit on the Patient Council for Kidney Cancer UK, advocating for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and work.
My work and advocacy have been recognised through multiple awards, including the This Can Happen Global Awards, where I was honoured with:
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Founders Award – for exceptional contribution to mental health
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Best Awareness Raising Mental Health Campaign
I was also proud to receive the Girish Patel DE&I Award, recognising my commitment to inclusion, empathy, and positive change.
Balancing all of this with life as a professional, a wife, and a mum of three has shaped everything I do. My resilience and determination are driven by one goal: to ensure that no one facing cancer feels unheard, unsupported, or alone.
Personal Speaking
Summary of Jemma’s Inspiring Journey
On a life-altering day, Jemma received the shocking diagnosis of two primary cancers, a moment that would forever change her life. Over the next few years, she underwent ten operations, radiation treatments, and embraced a drastically different way of life. Rather than allowing her diagnosis to define her, Jemma chose to channel her experiences into something profoundly positive.
Determined to support others affected by cancer, Jemma embarked on a mission to share her journey and insights. She has become a prominent voice in the cancer community, speaking at numerous workplace mental health conferences to raise awareness and provide encouragement to those facing similar challenges. As the Patient and Public Lead for a kidney cancer trial, she plays a vital role in advancing critical research and improving patient experiences.
Additionally, Jemma sits on the Patient Council for Kidney Cancer UK, advocating for the needs and rights of patients navigating the complexities of cancer treatment and care. Through all of this, she balances her commitments as a dedicated professional, loving wife to Mark, and devoted mother to her three children: Louis (21), Magnus (8), and Bronwen (6).
Jemma’s remarkable resilience and unwavering dedication to helping others highlight her strength in the face of adversity, making her a beacon of hope for many within the cancer community.