Help for the tough times
On seeing how a charity helped her friend, STV’S Emma Cameron became an ambassador, finds Sandra Dick
Presenter Emma Cameron is a familiar face on television, and as a journalist has often shared stories of people coping with difficult times. But the STV presenter also has personal experience of the heartache and worry that comes from a cancer diagnosis.
A close friend and her aunt both battled through breast cancer. And both benefitted from Cancer Support Scotland, a caring charity that makes life a bit easier for people affected by cancer.
“My good friend was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of just 32,” Emma says. “She was so young, and we were googling what to do, we didn’t know what to expect.”
The friends came across Cancer Support Scotland, which provides mental health and wellbeing support in the form of counselling, stress management and selfhelp. Based in a beautiful Arts and Craftsstyle former chapel in the grounds of Glasgow’s Gartnaval General Hospital, it offers a calming sanctuary.
“I don’t know what they spray in the air, but it is an amazing place,” says Emma.
“It’s not religious, but there is almost a spiritual feeling as you walk in. There is a sense of calm, your worries leave you.
“My friend had to get a wig. She is a very glamorous girl and that was particularly daunting for her, but she was offered a head massage, shown how to put the wig on properly and she got her nails done.
“The therapists were so kind, and she was able to see other people who were going through the same as she was. She made friends there who she is still close to years later.”
Counselling and self- management advice, available to people throughout Scotland, brings help in tackling stress and anxiety, while there is also healthy lifestyle guidance and even laughter workshops to raise a smile.
Emma, who is now an ambassador for the charity, did not hesitate to recommend the charity to her aunt when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“Cancer Support Scotland has something for everyone,” she says. “One older man I met had just finished his treatment but would return regularly for a blether – he’s now working as a counsellor. I’ve found even though people have been through cancer, they often return to support the charity and help others going through the same thing.
Cancer Support Scotland was launched 40 years ago by leading surgeon, oncologist, researcher and former Chief Medical Officer for Scotland, Sir Kenneth Calman. Formerly known as Tak
Even though people have been through cancer, they often return to support the charity and help others
Tent – Scots for “take care” – it opened the Calman Cancer Support Centre at the former chapel in 2012.
Inside, there are contemporary therapy suites, counselling rooms, an information centre with a well- stocked library and, outside, a peaceful sensory garden.
In response to Covid- 19, the charity switched many of its counselling and self- help sessions online and created a vibrant virtual support network.
Sadly, many of the charity’s fundraising events are currently on hold, while funds which would normally flow in from public and corporate supporters have been badly hit. It means that the income from gifts in Wills has become even more important.
Jack Ogston, chairman of the charity’s board of trustees, became involved in 2012 after seeing the difference it was making to the lives of people affected by cancer.
“I felt this charity was a hidden gem,” he says. “I decided to leave a gift in my Will to Cancer Support Scotland as I know the real impact this will have for the organisation and for those they are supporting. I know my legacy will allow this amazing charity to continue to provide vital support to anyone affected by cancer across Scotland.” www.cancersupportscotland.org/leaveagift