Cancer is all mapped out
CARE MAP
JONATHAN says the Cancer Care Map features a host of groups across the country for people who want to share their feelings, with specialist support for everyone who may need it – people living with cancer, carers, cancer survivors, people who may be at the end of their life, and their families ; anyone touched by the disease.
“Talking things through can help you make sense of what’s happening and cope with difficult feelings, whether that’s with loved ones, a professional, or people who are going through a similar experience to yourself,” he says.
Many of the groups on the map are labelled as support groups, and can help with all aspects of life with cancer. As well as talking and emotional support, some offer complementary and beauty therapies, relaxation sessions, yoga, art and craft classes and even rambling.
PRACTICAL SUPPORT
JONATHAN says it’s “really frustrating ” that his charity’s research shows three-quarters of people don’t know where to turn after a cancer diagnosis – particularly as cancer can bring a lot of practical issues.
“That’s millions of us who don’t know there are services available which can help with everything from issues concerning work, to driving, as well as coping with housework or even dressing if you live alone,” he says.
“Cancer affects every part of your life, and when we were looking for organisations to join cancercaremap.org, we wanted to ensure it included those that support people in their day-to-day life.”
Some charities on the map can even help with transportation to and from hospital for cancer patients.
FINANCIAL HELP
C ANCER patients, or anyone caring for them, may be able to claim certain benefits following their diagnosis, whether they’re working or not. Welfare advisers can explain which benefits cancer patients are entitled to, and their employment rights.
“Many people don’t know financial help is available following a cancer diagnosis and they can often feel they’ll have to struggle on alone,” says Jonathan. “Patients and carers can never know precisely how long cancer treatment may last. For many, it can be a long process, which can have a major impact on finances. That’s why it’s so important that people are aware of what services are available across the country to help them.”
The Cancer Care Map features a raft of specialist ser vices, offering advice on welfare and benefits, as well as work and pensions advisers who can support people with cancer if, for example, they’re thinking about retiring after their diagnosis.
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
ALTHOUGH eating healthily and exercising might not be your main priority after a cancer diagnosis, adopting as healthy a lifestyle as possible can make a huge difference to your personal wellbeing while living with cancer.
“Looking after yourself during this time is incredibly important,” stresses Jonathan.