A PUBLISHED Bradford poet who leads a cancer support group wants to create a conversation around cancer, while also providing a voice for sufferers and carers who may not have one.

Sheena Hussain, who grew up Girlington, leads Females: CAN, which provides a safe space for women who have experienced cancer, either first-hand or by way of a loved one.

The group - first launched in September - hold its sessions at the community room in Morrison’s Supermarket, in the Victoria Shopping Centre, once a month.

Sheena, who herself was diagnosed with cancer in the past, said, “Women as a whole, but especially black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) women, have it particularly hard when it comes to cancer. We need to hear these women, and that’s why I started the group.

“It's open to all women, regardless of background or which type of cancer they’ve experienced. It’s a diverse group and it’s wonderful to see how the ladies learn from each other - we’re almost creating a circle within a circle.

“We’re self-sufficient and we don’t receive any funding. How we operate and everything we do is driven by the women themselves.”

Sheena’s debut poetry book, ‘Memories of A Poet: My Road, My Recovery’, was published in 2018, and recounts her experiences of cancer as well as memories of her childhood.

“When I was recovering from cancer, I just stayed at home and wasn’t sure what to do. But I kept a journal and wrote every day, and I began to see all my happy childhood memories in front of me, vivid and clear. I wanted to capture those memories and that’s why I started writing.

“Eventually, I self-published my book in 2018 and it was wonderfully received. There isn’t always a narrative from BAME people of their cancer journeys, so I thought I should get my experiences out for others to read.

“Cancer is indiscriminate and affects us all regardless of race or religion, which is why every cancer story matters and should be told.

“We need to have more open conversations about cancer. I can represent the British-Pakistani community and our story needs to be told, but so do other communities’ stories - we need to make sure everyone is having the conversation.

On 4 February, Sheena attended Bradford’s World Cancer Day, where she introduced her book and discussed her own diagnosis and treatment.

“World Cancer Day is for survivors, their loved ones, carers and anyone who has lost someone to cancer. It’s very important to have it, as it gives a platform for people to share their story and talk about cancer.

“The day in Bradford was wonderful and I hope everyone took something from it and learnt new things."

If anyone is interested in connecting with Sheena, she says they are welcome to contact her on 07935177562. She also says that her book Memories of A Poet: My Road, My Recovery is available to loan in libraries and to buy online, while more information can be found at poetrybysheenapoetrybyname.com.