Here on the 9th floor of an office block in Vauxhall, my colleagues and I produce information to help people cope and live with cancer. Many of our lives have personally been touched by cancer too. We know what a cancer diagnosis can do. It can turn your world upside down. Pull the rug from beneath your feet. Leave you in shock, feeling numb, confused and scared. If you or someone close has been diagnosed with cancer, you might be wondering what’s going to happen next and how you’ll get through it all. In this blog, we highlight all the ways we can help you, whatever your situation. We want to make sure no one is struggling with a cancer diagnosis on their own.
Many people find it hard to talk to their loved ones about cancer, or to talk about it at all. But a chat with one of our experts can help you find the words you need. Our support line is staffed by cancer information and support specialists, and nurse specialists. Call us free on 0808 808 00 00, Monday–Friday, 9am–8pm, or email us.
In our Online Community, you’ll meet people who are finding ways to get through tough times together. Many people on the community have recently been diagnosed, so they’ll know how you feel and will be able to give you support or a listening ear. If you’re nervous, you could just have a look around and read other people’s messages to start with. Some people prefer face-to-face support – on our website you can search for a support group in your area. Or you might want to use our brand new service, Macmillan Skype Buddy, where we’ll find you a Macmillan-trained Skype user who can offer emotional support when things are tough, or just listen when you need a chat.
Finding out more about what’s worrying you can help you feel a little bit more empowered and a little less anxious. Whether you want to know more about your type of cancer, are concerned about treatments or side effects, or are worrying about how cancer will affect your life, we have lots of information to help you. Our cancer information web pages may be a good place to start. Or you can order free booklets and audiobooks from us. If you want to talk things through with a trained expert in cancer support, visiting one of our centres could help you. There, you can get free, confidential information and support. There are lots of local support centres, and we have mobile ones that move around the UK.
Money can be a real worry when you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer. Our experts on 0808 808 00 00 can find out which benefits you may be entitled to, help you complete forms, apply for grants and put you in touch with one of our local benefits services. They can also give you advice on things such as mortgages, pensions, insurance and savings.
If you’re after some clear information about how cancer can affect your job, and what you can do, our information on work and cancer may help.
Our Macmillan nurses, doctors and other health and social care professionals offer expert treatment and care. They help individuals and families deal with cancer from diagnosis onwards. They’ll be there for you until you no longer need them. You can ask your GP, hospital consultant, district nurse or hospital ward sister if there are any Macmillan professionals available in your area, or call us on 0808 808 00 00.
We hope the information in this blog has helped you find the help you need. We’re here for everyone affected by cancer – those diagnosed, relatives, friends, and colleagues – so please get in touch if you need support.
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