Gill Hurcomb, 82, has dedicated 18 years to volunteering at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in King's Lynn, supporting patients through Look Good Feel Better sessions. These sessions help individuals cope with the visible effects of cancer treatment, such as hair loss and skin changes, which can impact confidence and emotional wellbeing.
How Look Good Feel Better Sessions Help
Look Good Feel Better sessions are led by trained beauticians who provide practical advice on caring for treatment-affected skin, recreating eyebrows after hair loss, and simple techniques to help patients feel more comfortable with their appearance. Research indicates that such support can reduce anxiety, boost confidence, and improve emotional wellbeing when many patients feel they no longer resemble themselves.
Volunteers with Lived Experience
Alongside Gill, Janet Eason has volunteered at QEH for 13 years and plays a key role in the sessions. As a breast cancer survivor herself, Janet works closely with Gill to manage bookings, prepare rooms, and welcome patients. Their firsthand experience helps reassure nervous attendees and puts them at ease before and after sessions.
The focus is not on cosmetic appearance alone, but on helping people regain a sense of self and control during treatment, which can affect identity and physical health.
Gill's Personal Cancer Journey
Gill's commitment stems from her own experience. In August 2005, she lost her mother to breast cancer. Just months later, in January 2006, Gill was diagnosed with breast cancer following a routine mammogram. After treatment at QEH, she wanted to give back and began volunteering at the Macmillan Centre in 2008, initially supporting patients in treatment and chemotherapy areas. She encouraged patients to attend Look Good Feel Better sessions, often speaking with those feeling anxious or uncertain.
Gill said: "Patients often tell me they don't feel like themselves anymore. When your hair falls out or your skin changes, it can really knock your confidence. Knowing what the sessions involve, and having someone there who understands from experience, can make a big difference."
Gill has supported Look Good Feel Better since she started volunteering, helping organize sessions and offering a listening ear to patients seeking reassurance.
Expanded Role at Macmillan Centre
When the Macmillan Wellbeing and Support Centre opened in 2021, Gill's role expanded. She continues to support Look Good Feel Better and now helps run the monthly Grab a Cuppa group, a relaxed space for patients to share experiences and connect.
Through this group, Gill met Val, a newly diagnosed patient who was uncertain about attending. Val said: "At the first Grab a Cuppa session, Gill came over and introduced herself straight away. She knew I was feeling anxious and took the time to listen. If it hadn't been for Gill, I don't think I would have gone back. Even three years on, I still look forward to seeing her. She makes people feel welcome and understood when it matters most."
Despite managing her own health challenges, Gill continues to volunteer twice a month and plans to increase her hours. She finds the role meaningful, allowing her to use her experience to help others feel supported and less alone.
Joanne Rowe, voluntary services manager, said: "Gill embodies the spirit of many of our volunteers. She understands the patient perspective and the value that a friendly face and a listening ear add to their experience. Gill's commitment to continue volunteering, despite her own health challenges, is inspirational. Nothing holds her back for too long."
