Published on 1 September 2022
A new group is launching in Cheshire with the aim of “reaching out to support every woman with cancer”.
Cheshire Roses Group – which will give emotional and pastoral support to women at all stages of the disease – is being launched by Kay Maple, a breast cancer survivor who lives in Nantwich.
Kay says that the new group – for all types of cancer – will give women information about living with the long term effects of a cancer diagnosis and the physical, mental and emotional problems that some face, even after successful treatment.
Kay was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 and says that after her treatment finished was felt more could have been done to give her information on the possible lasting effects of the cancer and treatments, including sexual and gynaecological problems.
She has previously worked with focus groups and one collaboration group which included artists who created artwork to express the feelings and concerns of cancer survivors.
Kay, who is a CMCA patient ambassador, said: “The aim of the research was to help patients to recognise important side effects of treatment that are often not discussed in the health care settings, and yet have critical importance for the patients. It was hoped that they would then feel more confident in seeking help from healthcare professionals.
“When discussing our individual ‘journey’ through cancer we all had a different story to tell. One thing that we all agreed upon, though, was once treatment had finished there is very little emotional support offered; we felt alone.
“Working with the group improved my confidence and gave me the desire to help other women by getting information out there to as many places as possible. This is when I had the idea of a local support group. A place where women can feel comfortable to talk and also get the support they deserve.”
Ho
wever, Kay says the new support group will help women at all stages of their cancer treatment, from when they suspect cancer right through to living with the after effects of treatment.
Since 2018, Cheshire & Merseyside Cancer Alliance has created 120 posts to help guide cancer patients through their personal cancer ‘journey’, including aftercare. Cancer Support Workers are a growing workforce which can support patients after successful treatment with a care and support plan.
The group’s first monthly meeting will be at The Tea Lounge at Nantwich Town FC’s Weaver Stadium (CW5 5BS) on Tuesday, October 4th at 7pm.
For more information, ring 07453 870602 or email cheshirerosesgroup@gmail.com. You can also find the group on Facebook.
Kay said: “Each month, we will have guests such as health professionals, holistic therapists or other experts giving advice to help use though the cancer journey.
“There will be lots of opportunity for people to chat among themselves and offer support to each other. It will be a chance to make friends, relax and have a little fun too! You are not alone.”
