Oxfordshire resident, Chris McClement, believes that the support he has received from Macmillan has helped him and his family to cope with his diagnosis of lung cancer. He tells his story:
“I was diagnosed with lung cancer in August 2010, and the wait from initial diagnosis until treatment started in September felt like the longest three weeks of my life. The shock was immense but we were so busy as a result we just got on with it all: I’ve always played the hand I’m dealt and not dwelt on why I was dealt it.
“My diagnosis and subsequent chemotherapy cycles, radiotherapy and their side effects tested the family’s resolve but have ultimately reinforced the strong bonds that there are between us. However, we would have found it difficult to cope without the support of Macmillan.
“Macmillan have been one of the biggest sources of help”
“Macmillan nurses have been one of the biggest sources of help to me and my family throughout my cancer experience. I have been very fortunate to have the support of Hayley, my Macmillan nurse, right from start. She’s been available to me and the whole family both at the hospital and over the phone. It makes a huge difference to know that there is someone who we can contact who can answer questions and provide reassurance and advice.
“My wife and I also go to the lung cancer support group at the hospital, which is run by the Macmillan nurses. It makes a real difference to us to be able to talk to people who are going through the same thing – we can share experiences and challenges and support each other. Not only is it valuable, but it’s surprisingly fun too.
Sharing experiences
“If anyone’s diagnosed with cancer, they really should get in touch with their local team. The NHS is brilliant, but with cancer you need all the support you can get – and so do your loved ones. And that’s what Macmillan is there for.”
Macmillan is here for you in Oxfordshire
Being diagnosed with cancer is one of the toughest things that anyone can face. The Macmillan team in Oxfordshire is here to support you every step of the way.
If you have money worries as a result of cancer, then call the Macmillan Oxford CAB Benefits Service on Tel: 01865 225 689
If you have questions about cancer talk to your Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacists at your local Boots store in Cornmarket, Oxford.
For more about Macmillan and the services we offer, call the Macmillan Support Line free on 0808 808 00 00 or visit www.macmillan.org.uk
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