6 May 2011
A free course to help local cancer patients and their loved ones deal with the shock, upheaval and distress the disease causes is set to begin at Epsom Hospital later this month (May).
The seven week programme deals with every aspect of cancer, from the first diagnosis. It includes topics from diet and nutrition to how cancer affects the human body, and from relaxation to complementary therapies.
Cancer information manager, Tarlika Patel, said: "The course tries to be as comprehensive as possible, and this year we're focusing on 'survivorship'.
"For example, we've developed the course to bring in issues that can arise from working during and after treatment, as well as how to deal with the changes people may experience at both diagnosis and recovery stages.
"More people survive cancer now than ever before, so this practical element of the course has become more prominent year on year."
Tarlika added: "Feedback from previous courses has been very positive, and the whole ethos is one of support. Carers, relatives and loved ones are all welcome to attend, as the information we provide often applies to those living with the indirect consequences of cancer too."
The course is completely free, and will run on Wednesday afternoons from 2pm until 4pm, from 18 May to 29 June 2011 at the Macmillan Butterfly Centre, Epsom Hospital.
For more information and to book a place, please call Tarlika Patel, Pam Battell or Sheena Woodward on 01372 735 456 or email tarlika.patel@esth.nhs.uk.
