The Hope Hour: “You Are Not Alone”
Two cancer survivors are coming together to launch The Hope Hour, a 12-episode programme aimed at providing information, support and encouragement to people affected by cancer.
The Hope Hour will premiere on Monday, November 9, and air on the second Monday of each month from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Viewers can watch the programme live on the News 5 Live Facebook page and GBMLivestream on YouTube.
The show will bring together cancer survivors, patients and others familiar with the experience to discuss the challenges of diagnosis and treatment, available resources and the importance of early detection.
Valerie Woods, who has been living with no evidence of disease for one year and five months, says the idea emerged from conversations among a group of approximately ten to twelve cancer patients and survivors who wanted to give back after receiving support during their own journeys.
“Persons who are getting diagnosed are coming to us, asking where to go, what to do, how to do. And among us, we decided we need to share information,” Woods said.
She says the programme will offer honest conversations that are accessible to people who may be frightened or uncertain after receiving a diagnosis.
Janine Cattouse, who was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in 2024 at age 36, says the name reflects the message the group wants to share with viewers: a cancer diagnosis does not mean that hope is lost.
“We just wanted people to know that there is hope. It doesn’t have to be a death sentence,” Cattouse said.
Both women say the programme will also address the stigma surrounding cancer and encourage people who may be delaying medical checks to seek early detection. They also want to highlight the services available locally, including the work of the oncology unit at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH).
Cattouse says she was fortunate to receive treatment at the KHMH oncology unit and wants more people to recognise the work being done by its medical staff.
The organisers are also inviting patients, survivors, caregivers and family members to share their experiences and suggest topics for future episodes.
Suggestions and inquiries can be sent to hopehourbz@gmail.com.