Happy Birthday to the Mustard Tree

Last week, our Mustard Tree Macmillan Centre celebrated 20 years of supporting people with cancer and their families. The centre makes a huge difference to patients who are affected by cancer.

Staff and patients celebrated all day, with patients who have been affected by head and neck cancer sharing their experiences in a truly unique way.

The day closed with a song, performed by the singing group ‘The Mustard Voices’, formed just 10 days before their first performance on the day. The group includes both staff and patients who have used the centre’s facilities and the song was written by Cecilia Mwape Crutchley, a former patient at Derriford Hospital.

Cecilia said: “The Mustard Voices is life changing to me and truly a form of therapy. After having cancer and unfortunately having to have the roof of my mouth removed, I didn’t ever think I would be able to talk, let alone sing.

“The Mustard Tree are like my new family. I have made so many new friends and I am extremely grateful for everything that they have done for me. I really don’t know what I would have done without them.”

Ann Mason added: “For me, both the Mustard Tree and its Outreach Service 'The Triangle' at Liskeard Hospital were a fantastic support on my Cancer Journey. Whether to glean knowledge, get support or just have a chat and a cup of coffee, it is a haven.

“We are very lucky to have this service and I feel that we need to ensure it is utilised to its best.”

The Mustard Tree offers a friendly space where patients and loved ones can share concerns, ask questions, and receive great support from staff and trained volunteers, many of whom have personal experiences of cancer.