Celebrating a Decade of Hope: Maggie's Tokyo Commemorative Event

Maggie's Tokyo is delighted to announce a special commemorative event marking its 10th anniversary, dedicated to the mission of supporting individuals living with cancer. Founded in October 2016 in Koto City, Tokyo, the center was inspired by the beliefs of Maggie Keswick Jencks, the founder of the Maggie's Cancer Caring Centers in the UK. Her vision was to create a welcoming space for those affected by cancer—for patients as well as their families and friends— where they could seek emotional support and enjoy a sense of community.

The Journey So Far

Over the past decade, Maggie's Tokyo has extended its compassionate services to over 50,000 users. Patients living with cancer, along with their families and close friends, have found solace in this center, which serves as a second home for many. The center provides an environment where users can interact with healthcare professionals in a friendly manner, fostering connections that are often as supportive as those with close friends. The guiding principle has always been to ensure that individuals do not lose sight of the joy of living, despite the challenges they face.

The 10th Anniversary Event

To commemorate this significant milestone, Maggie's Tokyo is organizing a special lecture event on October 23, 2026, from 7 PM to 9 PM at the Koto City Cultural Center Hall. The entrance will open at 6:30 PM. The event is open to everyone including cancer patients, their families, friends, and anyone in the community who wishes to learn more or join the conversation about living alongside cancer. Admission is free, and we welcome all who are interested.

Event Program

1. Musical Performance: The event will open with a performance by the Cancer Research Hospital's Music Group.
2. Keynote Speakers: Keynote addresses will feature Masako Akiyama, the center director, and a cancer survivor who has utilized the resources at Maggie’s Tokyo.
3. Discussion Panel: The discussion will be moderated by Takeshi Sano, the director of Maggie's Tokyo and the honorary director of the Cancer Research Hospital.

This program is designed to not only provide insights and knowledge but also to celebrate the small joys that cancer survivors have experienced while navigating their journey.

Further Details

The location is easily accessible via the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, just a five-minute walk from the Toyocho Station (Exit 1, with elevator access). With a capacity of 500 attendees, early registration is encouraged to secure your spot.

For those interested in attending, please register through the QR code provided or by calling Maggie's Tokyo at 03-3520-9913 (weekdays from 10 AM to 4 PM).

This event is co-sponsored by Koto City and supported by the Koto City Medical Association, the Cancer Research Hospital, and Showa Medical University Koto Toyosu Hospital, among others. Special thanks to the Toyosu Commercial Association and the Koto City Shopping Street Federation for their contributions.

Join Us

Come and experience a journey of shared stories and heartfelt support. Whether you are directly affected by cancer or simply wish to understand more about the experience, your presence would mean a lot to us as we celebrate ten years of hope and healing.

For any inquiries regarding the event, feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] or call the center directly.

Introduction to Maggie's Tokyo

Maggie's Tokyo, a certified NPO established in 2015 by nurse Masako Akiyama and cancer survivor-turned-journalist Miho Suzuki, aims to provide resources and support for those affected by cancer. It was the first Maggie's Center to open in Japan, reflecting the ideals of the Maggie's Foundation, which has centers around the UK and globally. The centers are shaped by the belief that during treatment, patients deserve a space to be themselves—not just a diagnosis—where they can find guidance from caring professionals.

As we celebrate this anniversary, we invite everyone who has been a part of our journey to reflect on their experiences and the joy to be found in connection and community.