by Bernie English
A REPORT on the Irish Cancer Society’s Counselling Service shows that many families impacted by a cancer diagnosis require emotional support in the months and years after a cancer diagnosis.
While 48 per cent of those accessing the service did so within the same year of learning they had cancer, 20 per cent of clients attended for counselling within two years of diagnosis. A further 20 per cent of clients used the service between three and ten years after a cancer diagnosis.
The counselling service is available from the Limerick Cancer Information and Support Centre which is affiliated with the Irish Cancer Society.
Ahead of Daffodil Day on Friday March 11, the Society is highlighting the emotional impact of a diagnosis as one of the long term needs of cancer survivors.
“Counselling provides emotional and practical support to cancer survivors and their families” said Dorothy Thomas, Community Support Network Coordinator at the Irish Cancer Society.
“Coping with cancer can be difficult and families may experience many emotions such as anxiety, fear and sadness. It can be valuable to speak to a counsellor who can provide support in adapting to life after cancer and in finding a new ‘normal’.
The service is free of charge to cancer patients and their families.
Anyone who is concerned about cancer or is interested in accessing the counselling service, can contact the Irish Cancer Society’s Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700 or visit www.cancer.ie/support/counselling.
