A warm welcome and a hot cuppa awaits ...
I am writing this in the early summer of 2024. I'm very fortunate to have my therapy rooms located just a short walk from the Market Place in the bustling and busy town of Belper in Derbyshire. The Market Place has a large, free car park and plays host to some great community events, including a Farmer's Markets, Art Trails, Pride Events and much more more. Tucked away in one corner is a meeting venue called Number 28.
It was whilst walking past there one morning on my way to my therapy rooms that I first noticed the advertising poster for the Cancer Support Cafe in Belper. It caught my attention as this is a topic I feel very motivated to support, particularly with a focus on Cancer Wellness and Support for those on their journey (whether past or presently being treated) and those much loved family, friends, carers and inspirational figures who take a supportive role.
Cancer Wellness Support in the Community
I then got introduced to the Cancer Support Cafe host, Tony Lormor, separately through the friend of a friend that led me back to Number 28 .. so I went along to find out more about it.
Topics that raise eyebrows or warm the heart ...
First, Tony has created a wonderful space for people to relax and share whatever comes to mind at these Cafe-based meet-ups. It's very informal, yet respectful of confidentiality and privacy.
And what a wide range of topics arise during shared discussion over a hot drink and a chocolate biscuit.
How it feels to receive that very first "it's Cancer" diagnosis, to the way that was delivered, and how that moment still impacts people's minds much much further along. How do people cope with that?
What nutritional advice/support did people get from the hospital (if any!) and - in hindsight - was it good advice, or poor? I have heard a few horror stories about that too, yet also found out how people have adapted their diets to help support their healing processes better.
What is most important to people on their cancer journey; quality of life or quantity, if they had to choose?
How has the cancer diagnosis affected that person's carers and loved ones? In the opinion of some people on their cancer journey, it's their loved ones and carers that struggle most emotionally and mentally.
What are some of the hidden costs of cancer that become more apparent further along the path after diagnosis and early plans for treatment .. (see my blog "The Hidden Costs of Cancer" #WorldCancerDay for more on this topic)
Sometimes, it's really good to be able to talk about these things, rather than be continually ruminating over them, which can contribute to stress, worry and anxiety that - in a nutshell - just sap precious energy when the mind, body, emotions and spirit need it that energy to nurture positivity, resilience and strength.
 Common Issues
As I learnt when I went along to the Cafe in Belper to meet Tony and everyone else enjoying some refreshments, there are some surprisingly common themes and patterns that emerge.
It's come as a surprise (and a relief!) to many to learn that they are not alone in their experiences.
Look at Tony himself, for example. Going from peak fitness as a pro football player, to then having to replace that with a focus on treatment, recovery and then living life with a view through a completely different perspective. Life-changing .. means just that.
To meet other people who have the same concerns as you is a comfort that no, you're not alone, and there is a wealth of support and help available to you.
Having a positive social support network of your own is essential; family, friends, helpers, recognised cancer support charities, and from individuals and other groups who have had the same concerns as you and found ways forward through them.
And of course, this isn't' just limited to a cancer diagnosis. It could be any "label" related to a health diagnosis that makes a major change to life as you previously knew it. (Stroke, Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and so on....)
 How can I help?
From deep relaxation, to soothing aches & pains, easing mental and emotional stresses, and helping you find the inner resources you feel need to move forward to the next part of your journey with more energy, optimism, and resilience, I can help!
I work from my therapy room in Belper, Derbyshire, UK and also offer online services too for those who are unable to travel or live elsewhere in the UK and Overseas.
There are always always always different options and opportunities so please never ever feel stuck with your health challenges, or feel there is no way out or no way forward. And if I feel a service or skill I'm unable to offer would most likely be a better route for you, I'm part of an international network of health coaches and health professionals that I can refer to you. Never suffer in silence, or feel isolated.
There is so much you can do to help yourself, so get in touch with me if this message really resonates with you and let's talk.
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