Farming, rural communities and cancer

It's such a problem when navigating so many appointments.

Yes, the cost of fuel is so high now, a considerable strain on family budgets. 

Hi everyone,

Emma here from the Online Community team. Thanks all for your contributions to this important discussion so far.

We know how important it is to access shared knowledge and understanding around the topic of farming and rural living whilst living with cancer so it's great to see that happening here.

If you are new here you may like to start by introducing yourself and sharing your experiences around the following topics: 

• How have you managed stock whilst going through treatment? 

• What was the biggest challenge about living with cancer in a rural area? 

• What support would you offer others who may be going through something similar 

Take care,

Are there any social groups locally for farmers to get together? I have a friend who's father was in the same position and he joined a local farmer social group which helped him as he met fellow farmer widowers. He now meets them outside of the monthly group meet ups, and they go for supper together. They call it their supper club - which "saves them cooking for 1".

Additionally are their any local "meals on wheels" services? Another idea to help take the pressure off him cooking, while he gets used to his new circumstances.

Hi All, I wonder if sharing a bit about my experiences may help others, particularly thinking about managing livestock etc.

Ultimately, my Dad just wanted to carry on farming, but understanding limits was a real mental battle. He dislodged his PICC line lifting straw bales, another time tried to manage cattle that had escaped when he had been having chemo in hospital all day. When he was knocked over by a cow he finally accepted he couldn't do it all anymore.

Initially it was challenging, but as he accepted help he actually saw the benefits and became much more at ease. Sometimes actually a different person brought in different and better ideas. I know how lucky we are to have been able to employ someone, it may not be possible for everyone. However my general message is not to fear support, there really is no weakness in asking for help. 

On another note - there is a real lack of understanding of these issues in health teams. His medical team had no idea he would be trying to do all of this whilst undergoing treatment!

This is so insightful AB4. Agreed there needs to be some further education of healthcare professionals when they have farmer patients. There are some very specific things they should be aware of, including potential risks, that would help them to tailor treatment and support. 

This is a great contribution, thanks for sharing your experience AB4 

AB4, you are 100% correct - most health professionals have no idea what farmers have to do every day. I think some training regarding farming as an occupation would be beneficial to most.

With temperatures starting to increase for summer, and the strength of the Sun's UV rays, it's important to protect yourself.  Farmers are especially vulnerable. 

Read more about Why Farmers Need to Watch Their Skin

AB4 said:

not to fear support, there really is no weakness in asking for help. 

I think this is such a powerful message.  Well said AB4