michelle bray

Cancer Charity Founder

Suggested by Annie Longley Rogers

Annie says, “Michelle runs and organises the “Sasha Would’ve Loved It” café and charity shop in Penryn. It is a working memorial to Michelle’s daughter who tragically died of cancer in 2015. Michelle founded it as a charity in 2019 to raise money for Cornwall’s teenagers fighting the disease. This wonderful enterprise is a very special and personal project that has evolved into a really significant community hub.

I’m a frequent visitor of Sasha’s. I love the ambience of the place. You can leisurely amble into the shop area. It is a significant meeting place for many people in Penryn, including myself, and not forgetting the students. It’s Michelle’s bubbly personality that underpins the whole venture, inspiring her dedicated team of ladies. She is the driving force. Her staff of ladies work tirelessly. They are so well organised, helpful, the customer care is so very nice, genuine. It’s a happy place to be in. You just never know what you might find, at a bargain price, in such a friendly environment. In the café they cook a range of delicious cakes as well as savoury quiches. Relax with a cake and a cuppa. Michelle does her best to keep food costs down, clothes too, being mindful of the present economic climate! Michelle also encourages a team of volunteers, including those with disabilities, who help with sorting and donations.

Throughout the year, the hall is festooned. Christmas has a Santa’s grotto and every child is given a wrapped Christmas present. Each significant event, Easter, Penryn Fair Day is celebrated. Sasha’s is a real community event.”