Decision to speak out will inspire many

He may be tackling the subject of anxiety and loss of confidence, but make no bones about it – Steve Barnes is a brave man. Thousands all over the country suffer from cancer.

In fact the odds of contracting one form or other of the disease do not bear thinking about.

There are many side-effects for sufferers, and in today’s Courier Mr Barnes speaks very succinctly and openly about the isolation and stress a diagnosis can cause.

It is an often forgotten off-shoot of the symptoms and his words act as a timely reminder that not all of the issues faced are medical.

Mr Barnes chose to speak out after figures released by charity Macmillan Cancer Support revealed that one in five cancer patients face depression during their treatment.

Interestingly, he states his main concern is that he will look ill.

This fear over loss of self-esteem, though seldom raised, is surely commonplace.

Mr Barnes also touches on other worrying issues, including the financial difficulties that sufferers can all too often face.

It is a frank interview, but there is no doubt many people who have received their own cancer diagnosis will empathise with such concerns.

The message to anyone afflicted is clear and, hopefully, uplifting — you are not alone.