Lessons Learnt

If someone starting their cancer treatment asked me for advice this is what I would tell them.

•Be active in your care.

•Be kind to yourself.

•NEVER look up about your cancer on the Internet – I repeat NEVER.

•See a counsellor – I found the wonderful Belle through a cancer support centre - she was my rock and helped give me clarity through some very difficult times.

•Don’t feel like you have to speak to everyone on the phone – it can be exhausting and not too healthy to be having the same conversation with people about your treatment six times a day – send a group email outlining everything every few weeks and speak to people when you are up to it.

•Learn to say YES when people offer help – This was my biggest lesson learnt and the one for which I am most grateful. People’s kindness and generosity gives you so much strength and positivity as you are going through your treatment and can also be overwhelming - as Belle my amazing counsellor told me by being able to help you even in a small way it makes those around you feel like they have been able to do something worthwhile for you and not feel so helpless.

What would your advice be? It can relate to motherhood, loss, cancer or anything you like – let me know.