5 Minutes with The Cancer Mum Cheerleader

03 March 2026 — lia-rogers

We spoke to Sharon Goodway about her work as The Cancer Mum Cheerleader, her own cancer journey, and how she supports women through diagnosis, treatment and beyond.

Tell us about your organisation?

I was diagnosed with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma (which is a blood cancer) in March 2021, this was found in my eye and during Covid so as you can imagine…a real shock at the age of 36. During my cancer journey but especially after I found there was a lack of support out there. Not just for myself, but for other women too, going through ALL cancers. And so I decided to turn my pain into purpose, and The Cancer Mum Cheerleader was born. Cancer is like a tornado that rips into your life and tears everything apart, and I wanted to be that light for them in their storm.

I work with women globally, but also in my local area in Hertfordshire, so I am able to offer help both online and face-to-face. I’m not funded, so I offer some free and some paid for services. 

What services do you offer people living with or affected by cancer?

The services that I provide range from free resources, to more in depth paid services. I have a membership that allows women affected by cancer to be in a community of like-minded others, to get the support they so greatly need through one-to-one mentoring, monthly guest speaks and more. I also offer a six week online course that runs sporadically throughout the year. This course is solely for survivors who feel lost after cancer and don’t recognise themselves anymore. But for those who just want to hear from someone who understands, my social media platforms have daily posts that help support or inspire others.

Who are your services aimed at supporting? 

My services are aimed at women who primarily have survived cancer, but I also mentor and help those going through it. 

What’s the most rewarding thing about the work you do?

The most rewarding thing about what I do, is giving these women a voice. Having someone to listen to them, someone who resonates and understands, it means so much to them because they no longer feel alone. I felt so bitterly alone when I was going through cancer because I didn’t have the support of someone who had been there, and being able to be that support for others…I just can’t put that feeling into words.

What would you say to those who are considering getting in touch with you but are nervous or apprehensive?

If you are wanting help from me but aren’t sure, then please just reach out. I completely understand how talking about cancer can feel scary, but there’s nothing you can say that would make me judge you. I purely want to help, however I can. 

Do you have testimonials from people that have used your services?

“Speaking with Sharon, it felt like speaking to my best friend whilst weirdly having therapy. She has such a vibe of making you feel relaxed and comfortable. It really was the best thing and I felt so proud to be out of my comfort zone.”

“At the beginning of the course I felt vulnerable and my confidence had taken a real hit. But throughout the weeks I felt becoming more connected to my new self and using the tools Sharon gave us to build and grow. I found the course uplifting, emotional, supportive, empowering and a big step in my healing and growth”

What are the values of your organisation and can you describe your organisation in 3 words?

I embody resilience, nurture empathy, inspire hope and lead with courage. My three words to describe The Cancer Mum Cheerleader would be empowerment, inspiring and community.