Written by Becca Guiller on 10th August, 2026
As Cancer Card celebrates its fifth anniversary, we’re taking a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come. What began as a patient-founded online support directory has grown into a dedicated charity with a passionate team providing practical, emotional and personalised support to people affected by cancer across Scotland.
Based in Edinburgh, we have expanded our reach into communities across the Central Belt, including Fife and Lanarkshire. Today, our services include a support phoneline, face-to-face appointments, health and well-being events, and our Comfort Boxes, helping people feel supported throughout their cancer journey.
We exist because we understand that a cancer diagnosis affects far more than a person's health. While medical treatment plans are put in place, many people are left to navigate the financial, emotional, practical and wellbeing challenges on their own. Knowing where to turn for help can be overwhelming at an already difficult time.
That's where Cancer Card makes a difference.
We provide a single place where people can access trusted information, practical guidance and compassionate support. We work alongside charities, healthcare providers and community organisations, not in competition with them. We do this to ensure everyone receives the help that is right for their individual circumstances. Whether someone connects with us online, over the phone or in person, we help them find the services and support they need.
Our CEO, Lorraine Dallas, shares more about Cancer Card's journey and our mission in the video below.
Helping More People Find Support
One of the simplest but most effective ways we reach people is through our Cancer Cards. These cards are distributed to cancer centres, GP practices, pharmacies and community spaces, connecting people with vital support at exactly the moment they need it.
Every card has the potential to change someone's experience by helping them find support they may never have known existed.
Our small team is making a big impact, but don't just take our word for it. Alison and Natalie share their personal experiences of cancer and explain how Cancer Card supported them during some of their most challenging moments.
The Power of a Conversation
Sometimes, what people need most is someone who will listen.
Our personalised support calls offer reassurance, understanding and tailored guidance, helping people navigate the practical and emotional challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis.
As Alison and Natalie describe, that human connection can help people feel less alone and more confident about the journey ahead.
Cancer affects far more than the person receiving treatment. It impacts partners, families, friends and carers too. Steve shares his experience of supporting his wife, Natalie, and explains how Cancer Card was there for him as well, reminding us that support for loved ones is just as important.
Comfort When It's Needed Most
Our Chair, Ian Pirrie, is passionate about ensuring Cancer Card continues to grow so we can reach even more people across Scotland. One initiative that means a great deal to him is our Comfort Box.
Each Comfort Box contains practical and comforting items designed to support someone at the beginning of their treatment, offering reassurance, encouragement and a reminder that they are not facing cancer alone.
Ian explains more about the initiative in the video below.
Looking Ahead
Five years on, the need for charities like Cancer Card has never been greater. Every day we meet people who simply didn't know this support existed until they found us. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we can continue to be there for them—and for many more in the years ahead.
If you believe everyone affected by cancer deserves access to practical, emotional and personalised support, or if Cancer Card has made a difference to you or someone you love, we would be incredibly grateful for your support.
Please consider making a donation through the JustGiving link below.
Together, we can ensure that no one has to face cancer without knowing where to turn.
Thank you for helping us make a difference.
