Anne was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in March 2020, at the age of 59, during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. For Anne, the diagnosis was devastating and completely changed her life.
“I felt like I was drowning in words. Along with the COVID-19 pandemic, cancer has completely changed my life. As a person, as an artist, I am diminished, physically and emotionally. But my spirit holds on tighter.”
Adapting to life after cancer can be very difficult. So although Anne was grateful for receiving the best possible treatment, she experienced extreme loneliness and struggled to move forwards with her life.
“Psychologically, I am still reliving the trauma of cancer and face constant anxiety regarding its possible return. I am told to get on and live my life and I try to do this every day, intensely. But I am overwhelmed.”
When Anne found out about Cancer Coach Support Groups on social media, she decided to apply to join.
“Initially I was very sceptical. However, after speaking to various people at Cancer Support UK and joining a Cancer Coach Support Group, I realised just how positive an initiative it is.
“The group’s coach was very welcoming, as were all the other participants in my group. Even though we were all strangers to each other, we had all gone through a similar experience. Everyone was very friendly and open.
Moving on now with her life, Anne is full of hope and energy: “It feels fantastic to be working again and I’m enjoying being very busy.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my story. I hope it can, in some small way, give other people experiencing cancer in their lives a sign that there are good days too.”
Cancer Coach support groups are available free to anyone over the age of 18 who has completed their physical cancer treatment. The groups support those who are experiencing low mood, anxiety and worry, and who don’t know how to move forward with their lives. The course takes participants through a series of weekly facilitated group sessions, run for a six-week period over the telephone or online video. The sessions cover a series of coping strategies, techniques and exercises, which can help individuals on their recovery journey. The course is free and completely confidential.
The emphasis is on providing practical and emotional support in a safe space and connecting with others who have been through cancer.
You can apply to join Cancer Coach online or, if you have any questions, please email cancercoach@cancersupportuk.org or call: 020 3983 7616.