I really enjoyed volunteering at Wessex Day. The music was incredible and the atmosphere was too. It was great to raise awareness of what the centre provides on the island and raise vital funds – Vanessa O’Dea
45 stories for 45 years. Throughout 2026, we’re sharing the stories of our clients, volunteers and staff who make the Wessex Cancer Support community what it is.
Through our community’s lived experience of cancer, we can provide our clients with the tailored support they need.
For this edition, we are looking at our recent Wessex Day event!
What began as a volunteer’s commitment to helping the Isle of Wight Centre soon grew into a full-scale project. Drawing on her skills as a dedicated admin volunteer. Her efforts came together in Wessex Day 2026, a lively and welcoming community celebration hosted at Tesco Extra in Ryde. The event transformed the store’s space into a hub of activity, attracting residents, volunteers, and long‑standing supporters from across the island.
I really enjoyed volunteering at Wessex Day. The music was incredible and the atmosphere was too. It was great to raise awareness of what the centre provides on the island and raise vital funds – Vanessa O’Dea
Visitors were treated to a full programme of entertainment and games, with something happening in every corner of the venue. The line‑up of performers brought energy, variety, and plenty of smiles throughout the day. Acts included Raw Samba, whose rhythmic beats set the tone from the start; talented vocalists Emilia, Amy Joliffe, Ruby Bodenham, and Cara Goodrem; the ever‑popular Baron Fortitude; the dynamic young performers of Theatre Train; and the nostalgic charm of The Vintage Songbird. Crowds also gathered for mesmerising tricks from local magician Naturally Nick, and many stopped to enjoy readings and conversations with local author Kathryn Rossati, whose storytelling added a thoughtful touch to the festivities.
The services team were present throughout the event, offering guidance, answering questions, and helping visitors learn more about the vital support Wessex provides across the Isle of Wight. Their presence ensured that the day wasn’t just fun, but also meaningful, a chance for people to connect with the organisation at the heart of the celebration.
Amy Joliffe
I love supporting Wessex Cancer Support fundraisers. Its a cause close to my heart, and the team are lovely. Saturday was a fun event and it allowed me to play my own music to a new audience. Hopefully, the event made everyone’s shopping day a bit more enjoyable, too! – Ruby Bodenham
Wessex Day 2026 was far more than a fundraising event. It became a vibrant celebration of community spirit, a reminder of how much can be achieved when people unite behind a cause. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, pride, and a genuine sense of togetherness that reflected the very best of the Isle of Wight. Thanks to Vanessa’s dedication, and the collective effort of volunteers, supporters, and local residents, the day stood out as a shining example of what collaboration can accomplish. It wasn’t just a successful event; it was a testament to the strength, resilience, and heart of the Island community. Special thanks must be given to Jan Gibson at Tesco in Ryde and Aspire Ryde.
Raw Samba & Centre Manager Liz Tapsell
