A CHARITABLE soul who has spent years supporting those suffering with cancer has been honoured with a British Empire Medal.

Cheryl Sanderson founded the We Can Survive Singers in 2019 and has spent the years since using her experience as a therapist to provide a safe space for those living with cancer to connect and find hope.

The 57-year-old was diagnosed with breast cancer herself in 2015 and found the group life-changing.

Though this year has been particularly special, as she was placed in the New Year Honours list and received her British Empire Medal last Wednesday from Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire Dame Hilary Chapman.

Cheryl told the Chronicle: “It was an absolutely amazing night.

“I was very emotional, it was all so surreal.

“It was especially lovely to have all my family, friends and all the singers there with me.

“I feel incredibly proud of the group and all the people who attend.

“They come in really anxious, vulnerable and scared, but you can see how in a few weeks they become more confident and build strong friendships.

“It’s always growing and I’m really proud of how it’s expanded into the community.”

There are currently 30 members of the group, with another two planning on joining in the next few weeks.

“For 20 years as a therapist I saw people saying that they want more peer support,” Cheryl added.

“You would hear it all the time and I feel this just shows what comes for actually listening to what people want.

“I feel incredibly honoured, it shows how important these services are.

“But it’s not just me, it’s owned by the community and all those who attend - there’s so many people involved and I couldn’t do it without them.”