Loneliness and isolation are now a reality for many but even more so for people living with a cancer diagnosis. At a time when normal support networks are vital, they are now severely restricted and facing a cancer diagnosis is something people are doing alone.
Connecting with a cancer support group can provide the peer support that can make such a difference, but not everyone has made those connections and cancer support groups have also had to face the challenges of the new virtual world.
Hilary Kendal, Macmillan Information and Support Service Manager for North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, says: “We know how challenging the past year has been for people coping with cancer, especially those without the support of family, friends and neighbours.
We hope this conference will reconnect people to their local communities both on the day and in the months to come and help reduce loneliness.”
Macmillan Cancer Support, Macmillan Cancer Information Centre, Cumbria CVS and North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust have collaborated to host an online get together for support groups in Cumbria and those affected by cancer.
The virtual workshops will include help with connecting online and social media, cookery demonstration to cook along with, learn how to give yourself a hand massage, an exercise and movement class, information about the new community cancer nursing service in West Cumbria and open spaces to chat and re connect.
Hilary added: “Cancer Support Groups are an incredible source of support; being able to talk to others who understand what you are going through provides a real sense of belonging and helps reduce feelings of isolation. This event will help support existing groups and encourage others to connect with them; we are looking forward to welcoming you all.”
This is free event which will be held on 11 May 2021 from 11am to 3pm. You will need a device that can connect to the internet with a camera and microphone, and we will help you to connect to the online get-together.
If you would like to attend or for more information, please contact Jane Macfarlane at Cumbria CVS janem@cumbriacvs.org.uk or call 01768 800350
Don’t be alone with cancer.