WOMEN with breast cancer need not suffer alone - that’s the message from a vital support group.

Bosom Pals Support Group is a voluntary, not-for-profit organisation that works closely with the Breast Care nurses at Southend Hospital to help women diagnosed with or recovering from breast cancer.

Library worker Nikki Edermaniger, 56, began campaigning for the group after experiencing the invaluable support for herself.

She said: “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 and that is when I joined Bosom Pals.

“Although the group has been around for 20 years, at that time it had diminished and the ladies who were running it had run out of steam which is why I got more involved.”

The group holds meetings one Wednesday a month, with guest speakers, for people to get together and share their experiences.

There is also a private Facebook page where members can ask questions and raise issues without the fear of being judged by anyone who has not gone through it.

Ms Edermaniger added: “The Facebook page provides a private space for people who have just had a diagnosis and have questions. They can easily get advice from people who have gone through it.

“Our meetings are very informal and relaxed. People can come down and have a cup of tea and have a chat with people who understand.”

Being diagnosed with the disease often leaves women shellshocked as it will usually come out of the blue.

Ms Edermaniger said: “You’ll be going along in life and then they find something and from that moment, the rug is pulled out from underneath you and you’re trying to keep your life together. It’s devastating

“Some people are lucky enough that their friends and family are supportive but there’s nothing like someone who knows what you are going through.It’s just that empathy with the group and they know what is going on. Often family members cannot understand.”

Ms Edermaniger knows only too well what a lifeline the group can be. She said: “If it hadn’t been for a couple of ladies who took me in when I joined the group, I probably wouldn’t have gone back. They were so lovely and supportive.”

The group not only provides support for those battling breast cancer but also continues to help those who have been signed off after beating the disease.

It recently received a vital donation of £420 from Halifax Southend which will help it continue to support those affected by the disease.

If you would like to join Bosom Pals or find out more information, you can visit their website at www.bosompalssouthend.org.uk.