A new community shop in Ryde is offering support, conversation and a welcoming space for those affected by breast cancer – founded by a local woman who has battled the disease twice herself.
Samantha Densham, from Ryde, was diagnosed with breast cancer in both 2020 and 2023. During the Covid-19 pandemic she set up The Breast Friends of Hants and Isle of Wight CIC (Community Interest Company) after deciding she wanted to support women, like herself, facing the disease.
Initially, Samantha sold pre-owned clothing and donated hampers and care boxes to the breast cancer department at St Mary’s Hospital. The CIC also offers transport services for Islanders attending treatment.
In 2026, Samantha decided to take the work of Breast Friends to the next level, leading to the creation of Lemon-Aid – a thrift store and coffee shop located in Ryde.
After receiving the keys to the High Street premises in mid-January, the shop opened on 11th February. The space offers a welcoming environment, selling women’s clothing alongside cakes, coffee, homemade lemonade and, of course, Samantha’s infectious smile.
On opening the shop, Samantha has told Island Echo:
“I felt like it was my destiny to do something like this.
Article continues below this advertisement “If something like this was around when I was going through treatment then I would’ve come here. It would’ve been nice to talk to people.
“Sometimes even your family, who are so supportive, don’t truly understand what you’re going through so for people to be able to come here, hopefully we can create a support network for them.
“Hopefully the shop can bring positivity to an otherwise horrible situation.”
The shop stocks a variety of women’s items including shoes, dresses, skirts, tops and more. There is also a section of free items for those in desperate need, with all stock having been donated.
At present, those using the transport service are taken to appointments by Samantha in her own car, although this sometimes means the shop has to close temporarily.
Looking ahead, Samantha hopes a Lottery grant will allow Breast Friends to introduce a bespoke minibus service to help cancer patients attend appointments.
Working alongside the Isle of Wight Council through the Household Support Fund, Breast Friends also distributes food hampers to Islanders. Vouchers redeemable in the shop are also issued by the Job Centre in Ryde to those eligible.
However, Samantha hopes the shop will become more than just a resource for cancer patients, with the wider community encouraged to see it as a safe and welcoming space.
Speaking about the response so far, Samantha said:
“We’ve had people who have said they are lonely and people who have said they are struggling a little with their mental health, but lots of them have left saying that just popping in and having a cup of tea has really cheered them up.
“I feel really proud of what we’ve achieved so far, but there’s lots more I want to do”.
To donate to The Breast Friends of Hants and Isle of Wight, click here.
Looks a great shop, good luck with your venture.