Support group empowers cancer patients

A bi-monthly support group set up to help anyone living with cancer has been described as ‘comforting and vital’ by a grateful Wolverhampton patient.

Steps to Living Well sessions were launched in July 2023 and are held at the Long Knowle Community Centre in Wolverhampton.

The sessions are set up to help patients and provide support and information they may not have been aware of.

They are also a safe place for them and their friends and families to meet with other patients in a support group setting.

Patient Nicholas Sercombe said the group has been a great support to him.

Nicholas was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2019 and is currently taking oral chemotherapy tablets.

The 70-year-old said: “To anyone suffering from cancer, this group is extremely knowledgeable. Knowing that you are attending a group with other people who are in a similar position is comforting.

“I became aware of it through the Macmillan office at New Cross Hospital, and it has been one of the best things I have done.

“My advice to anyone is take advantage of this group as it has enhanced my ability to live my life and has been vital to me, and I hope it can do the same for others.”

Jo O’Sullivan, Living With and Beyond Cancer Support Manager at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, said: “The group offers individualised information points for patients to access the information provided by the appropriate professionals.

“We provide practical information on the benefit system through our welfare rights team and have clinical nurse specialists in attendance.

“We have a varied range of activities available, such as relaxation techniques, a taster session of yoga and a chance to learn more about Reiki (a Japanese healing technique).”

For more information and dates please call 01902 695234 or 01902 695245.