World cancer day image: Alt text- Green and white graphic reading “World Cancer Day” with an illustrated green globe forming the letter “O” in “World.” Below, the date “4th February” is displayed, representing global awareness and solidarity for cancer care.
On World Cancer Day, Macmillan stands in solidarity with the millions of people affected by cancer and welcomes the Government’s new National Cancer Plan for England.
By raising awareness and calling for better care across the UK, we’re supporting a future where everyone gets the help they need, when they need it most. No one should have to face cancer feeling lost or alone.
At least every 75 seconds, someone’s life changes with a cancer diagnosis in the UK. That is almost 1,200 people across the UK on average are diagnosed with cancer. To put in perspective, by the time you have read this blog at least two people will have been diagnosed with cancer.
Watch our new 75 second film featuring well known faces, bringing to life the reality behind the statistic.
Today is also a big day for cancer, as the government announced the launch of the National Cancer Plan for England
The Plan shows big ambition to centre care around the person to help ensure everyone has access to the best cancer care possible, whoever and wherever they are. Macmillan has been involved in shaping this Plan from the start. Our priority has been to make sure the voices of people living with cancer have been heard, particularly those having the worst experiences right now.
Find out more here about World Cancer Day and the National Cancer Plan for England.
Whoever you are, wherever you live, you deserve the best cancer care. Macmillan has a range of services to help people find the support they need.
How being a part of the Online Community can help
The Macmillan Online Community is a vital support resource for many as it can be accessed 24/7. If you need support during the night, start a discussion or join in the Awake and up all night chat.
With over 77,000 members, we see lots of different lived experiences being shared in our forums every day. Whilst there are a lot of similar experiences with cancer, sometimes there are discussions highlighting the variation of cancer care across the UK.
Members share experiences regarding unequal treatment access, disparities based on location or demographics, and challenges with self-advocacy in managing care.
A discussion you can get involved with:
“It can be so overwhelming to navigate the healthcare system, and having the courage to ask questions and seek second opinions is vital. Online communities like this one are a fantastic resource for learning how to be a better advocate for ourselves. The shared experiences and support here can empower people to take an active role in their care. Thanks again for this valuable reminder!”
-Community member blog comment
Read more shared experiences in the Cancer, self-advocacy and pre-existing health conditions on the Online Community blog.
How the Community Helps
“This is an important topic as self advocacy is hard, really hard, for most of us. We're all conscious that Doctors are busy; we don't want to ask “stupid questions; we're scared to admit when we don't understand something; some stuff is just really embarrassing to talk about; some medical staff can be quite intimidating. Somehow, though, we have to get over these fears and concerns and remember that WE are the most important people in this situation.”
-Community member, Cancer chat forum
Macmillan believes that everyone should get the very best cancer care and treatment, no matter what. If you’re worried about the care you’re receiving, or feel you’re being treated unfairly, Macmillan can help:
Have you experienced variations in healthcare across different hospitals and areas of the UK, and want to share your experience? Use the comment box below in this blog or start a discussion.
Please do contact the Community Team by email at community@macmillan.org.uk if you have any questions or would like to get involved in sharing your story.
