This is a course that helps people who have had cancer to move on with life after treatment. It runs for six weeks, 2½ hours a week, at the Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre.
The course aims to enable people to cope emotionally, psychologically and practically by focusing on building on their existing strengths.
The size of each group varies and can be up to about 12 people. The time is spent in facilitated discussion, with some group activities and ideas to try between sessions.
The course is run by facilitators who have been trained by Macmillan Cancer Support. They may be health care professionals and/or people who have had cancer or caring experience.
Topics covered include:
- managing fatigue and stress
- communication
- body changes
- fear of recurrence
- getting active
- developing personal strengths.
Many people who have attended the course have reported positive outcomes such as:
- knowing how to achieve long and short term
- plans for change by setting goals for themselves and using problem solving steps being able to address difficult problems
- learning to use relaxation techniques to refresh mind and body
Comments from participants
“I feel reassured and able to recognise my own potential for enhancing the quality of life”
“This course has really helped me focus on the future”
“I feel more confident in dealing with emotional issues”.
