Cancer support remains during pandemic

The start of 2021 is proving to be an acutely challenging time for people with cancer, the NHS and for cancer care.

It’s clear this is the most worrying time in recent history to get a cancer diagnosis.

At Macmillan, people are calling our support line every day to tell us about the heightened anxiety, loneliness and distress they are feeling.

On our support line – open seven days a week on 08088 080000 – specially trained nurses, counsellors and financial support advisors are

available to help anyone affected by, or worried about, cancer.

They can provide comprehensive information and advice, as well as emotional support, to help people with cancer cope with the additional strain of the coronavirus pandemic.

We know doctors and nurses are working in unspeakably difficult conditions and are having to make tough decisions every day.

Healthcare professionals are doing everything they can to keep cancer care on track.

But we also know some treatment – operations, for example – are being cancelled or postponed because essential services such as intensive care units are full of seriously ill people with Covid-19.

What is absolutely vital is that if there are changes to treatment plans, these must involve the person living with cancer and be communicated clearly.

Although some changes may be needed for treatment plans, this is not the case everywhere or for all treatments or tests.

Healthcare professionals are doing everything they can to make hospitals a safe environment so it’s really important people with cancer who have been invited for tests or treatment do attend.

GPs are open if you are worried about possible cancer symptoms and screening and other vital tests have resumed in a Covid-safe way. The NHS is still here for you.

As well as our support line, comprehensive cancer information and support is available on www.macmillan.org.uk and our online community is there to provide invaluable emotional and peer support.

Gordon McLean, strategic partnership manager in Scotland for Macmillan Cancer Support.