World Cancer Day: My story of loss and hope

By ‘For Men To Talk’ founder Luke Newman

Today is World Cancer Day. For me, this day is personal. Cancer has taken two important people in my life—my mum and my sister.

I lost my mum to ovarian cancer in May 2005. That was nearly 20 years ago. I lost my sister to breast cancer in May 2015. That was nearly 10 years ago. The pain of losing them never goes away.

Grief is not something you get over. I still cry for them. I still feel their absence every single day. It’s especially hard knowing my mum never saw me get married. She never met my children. She never got to hold them, to love them. It breaks my heart. My sister never got to grow old, to see what her future could have been. The memories of them are precious, but they also remind me of what I have lost.

For years, I struggled with my grief. It was heavy, overwhelming, and lonely. But I learned that talking helps. Talking about my pain, my sadness, my memories—it made a difference. It didn’t bring them back, but it helped me carry the weight of their loss.

That is why I started ‘For Men To Talk.’ I wanted to create a place where men could talk about anything they are going through. Whether it’s grief, stress, depression, or just everyday struggles, men need a space to open up. Too often, men suffer in silence. They think they have to be strong, to hold everything inside. But real strength comes from sharing, from being honest about our emotions.

‘For Men To Talk’ provides different types of meetings. We have in-person gatherings, virtual chats, fishing meetups, and walking groups. Each one offers a safe space where men can talk without judgment.

These meetings bring people together. They help break the stigma around men’s mental health. They encourage emotional expression and build resilience. When men support each other, they feel less alone. They realise that their struggles are shared by others.

If you are struggling, if you feel alone, please reach out. You don’t have to suffer in silence. Talking won’t take away the pain, but it will help you manage it.

On this World Cancer Day, I remember my mum and my sister. I remember the love we shared, the memories we made. And I dedicate my work to helping other men find the support they need.

You are not alone. Let’s talk.