Complete Late 2009 As at 15.12.09 SECOND ONE!!

voice Cancer Information and Support Centre

The Patients’ Newsletter Edition 8

Refresh gets underway ! I am very pleased to announce that the first phase of Refresh (the Isotopes department on lower ground one, funded by the Friends of BHOC) has now been completed. Work is now well underway on the next phases which includes more work on lower ground one; and work on the stairwells and lift lobbies which will both improve the environment and improve signage. The work on the stairwells and lift lobbies will continue for approximately 12 weeks, which means that access to levels via the usual lifts and stairs will be restricted. We apologise for the inconvenience and are grateful for everyone’s understanding during the building work. Above and Beyond are running the CaRE (Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Environment) Appeal to help raise money to fund Refresh. They are organising a number of events including the BHOC Challenge event, where BHOC will be turned into an urban assault course; and Pie & Cash – a ‘Come Dine with me’ style event where Pie Minister will provide pies at a reduced price, and you raise money by having friends to dinner. If you would like further information FIONA JONES about the fundraising events, details can be found on The new Deputy Divisional www.aboveandbeyond.org.uk or by contacting Lucy Smith on Manager, Specialised 0117 3700 486. Services, Haematology, If you have any questions or comments about Refresh, Oncology and please feel free to contact me (0117 342 4148) or Sarah Wright Homoeopathy (0117 342 2411). Fiona Jones PACKED FULL OF ACTION INSIDE

Run Dance Wing- with with walk Freddie Meena with Mercury Tony

VOICE is generously funded by The Friends of Bristol Haematology & Oncology Centre 1

NEWS FROM THE FRIENDS OF BRISTOL

FREDDIE RUNS THE HALF MARATHON Katharine Preece and Ryan Shipman have been raising funds for the Friends of Bris- tol Oncology and Haematology Centre since April 2009. Ryan ran the London Marathon this year and they both successfully completed the Bristol Half Marathon together in Sep- tember with Ryan dressed as Freddie Mercury! So far they have raised £966 in memory of Katharine's Nan (Pam) and their friend Carley's Mum (Ann) who were both cared for at the Bristol Oncology Centre.

MARRIAGE OF FIGARO he Friends held another fund-raising opera in 2009, the 5 th they have organised. As before, this T was an open-air performance in early August, and was hosted by Mrs Cherry Bretton in her beautiful garden near Wrington. The opera was the very popular Marriage of Figaro by Mozart, a delightful and light-hearted production full of humour and memorable tunes. We were lucky, in this year of austerity, to attract an attendance of 280, only a little down on our earlier years. All our guests brought their own picnics, eaten during the interval in convivial groups scat- tered around the extensive gardens. For the first time we had taken the precaution of providing a marquee shelter for the audience, which was fortunate. The blustery weather turned to drizzle during the 2 nd act, from which the audience, the cast and the 12 piece orchestra were fully protected. Without such shelter the orchestra could not have continued. The opera was once again produced and performed, in English, by the very talented Opera Pro- ject, formed 16 years ago and run by 2 Bristol University graduates, Richard Studer and Jonathan Lyness. They are an increasingly well-known and acclaimed company who now regularly perform for 2 weeks each autumn at the Tobacco Factory and during the summer in a variety of venues throughout Britain. We are indebted to our sponsors of this event including local family trusts and businesses. With their help we raised a profit of over £17,000 this year for the charity, which in turn will go to the Centre to be spent on equipment as well as patient care and well-being. We hope to put on another opera in 2011: for further information or inclusion on the mailing list please ring David Farris on 01761 462428.

HAEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY CENTRE

CLIMB AGAINST CANCER ‘09 (more photos on page 15) HOC first entered into my life, days of cycling in unfamiliar places, on the top of the world. B and the lives of my loved ones, on unknown roads, and up massive THE FINAL DAY when in 2007, at the age of 29, I was mountains. So to the final day, and Alpe diagnosed with stage four bowel can- Slightly daunted, but mas- D’Huez. Nine kilometres to the top, cer. I quickly learned that not only sively excited, we started out for 21 hairpin bends, an average gradient would this have a massive impact Poole to hop on a ferry to Cherbourg, of 10% and a vertical kilometre of upon me, but also those closest to me, and the start of the real adventure. climbing. It is jaw-dropping to stand and most particularly my partner, and Day one in France started out at the bottom and look up! But I am soon to be husband, Oliver. so well – the lads making good pro- proud to say that my boys all made it It became obvious very gress, getting to grips with the to the top without once getting off quickly that he would need to learn ‘carefree’ attitude of the French mo- their bikes, hitting the summit in a how to deal with the stress of our toring public until we got to the small hugely impressive 1 hour and 8 min- situation and find ways of blowing town of Lessay, which we discovered utes – all that after cycling across off steam. And so he rediscovered his was holding its annual town fayre, France for the previous 7 days to love of cycling, and would spend which meant all of the roads were even get there. Consider that your hours out on the road, just him, his closed, and the streets littered with average professional can reach the bike and his thoughts. It was a great people and animals, all of whom had summit in around 45 minutes, and the release for him and as time went by, to be navigated around, unfazed by achievement is amazing. he became fitter and stronger than he the sight of a 25 foot long van com- So an amazing challenge had had ever been before. ing towards them! a successful and emotional finish. So when the notion of cy- Day four and the lads cycled There were tears and smiles, followed cling to the French Alps came to him, for 100 miles in torrential rain and by a hairy 40 mile and hour descent it didn’t sound like a crazy idea. into a substantial headwind; day six back down the mountain! Not only What a great adventure it would be! and we suffered a bad puncture and a was the trip an adventure that we will He would get the opportunity to fulfil busted tail-light in the busy town of never forget, but it has so far raised a boyhood ambition, and I would Givors; day seven and we had to nearly £7,500 for the Friends. have a goal to focus on, something to navigate our way through the bustling I am so grateful to everyone get fit and well for, so that I could city of Grenoble. Not a single day who has supported us – and for those join him on the trip. And then it went without a hitch, but that made of you who still want to, it’s not too dawned on us – such a massive chal- each day’s achievement that much late! You can donate online at at lenge would surely attract interest, so more impressive, and fuelled our de- www.justgiving.com/ why not use the opportunity to raise termination to succeed. climbagainstcancer09 , or drop in on some money for the hospital? “Climb UP THE ALPS Liz in the Friends office. Against Cancer ‘09” was born! We hit the Alpine regions on Just as I, and many others, The aim was simple – Bristol day six, and just driving up some of climb a mountain every day in our to the French Alps and up Alpe the mountains was tiring enough! fight against cancer, so these three d’Huez, one of the most famous Where we had encountered the odd boys climbed a mountain, their way mountain stages of the Tour de 5% climb in the days before, we were of saying thank you to this hospital France. Eight hundred miles in 8 now starting out at the foot of seri- for all that it does. days, and as much sponsorship as we ously imposing ascents, long and re- could secure. Joined by his brother lentless mountain passes. It wasn’t Toby and good friend Steve, 18 unusual to hit an 8% gradient that months of training got underway, went on for two or three miles. ready for 12 th September, the day we But once we got to the top, left for France. The boys would cycle the views and landscapes were spec- and I, along with my best friend Kate, tacular. So many of the little French would drive in support. villages that we passed through were THE ADVENTURE BEGINS like ghost towns, and at times it felt Leaving Bristol on a dark as if we were the only people for Saturday morning, it suddenly miles around. But the air was so crisp dawned on all of us just how much of and clear, and the silence was awe- a challenge this trip would be. Eight some – it felt like we were standing

Hotel services

he Hotel Services Department is The food service has changed such as Foundation Food Hygiene T responsible for cleaning, cater- from cook/chill to cook/freeze which Training, NVQ Level 2 in Cleaning ing and portering within the hospital. meant modifications have been un- and Food Service. A very small number of staff work in dertaken to the Holding Room and Porters also have to under- all areas of the building at various some of the equipment being changed take a variety of training which in- times of the day and evening. in the kitchens at ward level. cludes Gas training with B.O.C, Many of the staff working in The last P.E.A.T (Patient En- Blood Transfusion training and NVQ Hotel Services have worked in this vironment Action Team) visit gave 2. unit for a number of years. The man- very favourable comments about both Margaret says she is a firm ager herself, Margaret Cropley, has the cleaning and food provided for believer in the saying that a manager been in this unit since January 1st the patients (100% for Food Service is only as good as the staff who work 1990, although she says there is one and 94% for cleaning). for her and feels very lucky to have member of the Hotel Services staff Hotel Services are very proud had such good staff to work with. who has been here longer. of the 5 Gold Stars for kitchen Over the years there have cleanliness awarded to each kitchen been many changes which have af- by the Bristol City Council, Environ- fected the service provided but suf- mental Health Officers. fice it to say the staff have always Government Policies and taken these changes in their stride and Regulations have to be implemented, continue to provide a service which is these include National Cleaning Stan- second to none. Changes have re- dards and Food Hygiene Regulations. cently taken place in the department which it is hoped will enable the staff Years ago staff did not do much pro- to provide an even higher standard of fessional training but to-day staff un- care to the patients. dertake a variety of training courses

A1 LUNG CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

We are a friendly supportive group, which is made up of Sarah Smith is our dedicated “Lung Cancer Nurse Spe- lung cancer survivors, patients, partners and friends. All cialist” telephone no 0117 9596260. We would welcome have or have had lung cancer or mesothelioma. We hold anyone who would like to come along to any of the our meetings on the 1st Monday of each month at G meetings for a cup of tea and a chat. ward outpatients at Southmead Hospital at 6pm (the We are in regular touch with The Roy Castle parking being a lot easier then). Lung Cancer Foundation and some attend their annual conference at Liverpool. We also have different guest speakers that come along to help and advise us all on different aspects. We have fun outings occasionally, and also have ‘cake sales’ which are very successful. Although our meetings are not all about fund raising, we have managed to raise quite a lot so far and have recently bought 2 syringe pumps for Ward 10 at Bristol Royal Infirmary. If you would like any other information about our group please give Sarah a ring on the above number or call Lynn 0117 9832895, Olive 0117 9355405, Maureen 0117 9373825

North Bristol Trust Cancer Survivorship Project he National Cancer Reform Strategy sets out, information geared to understanding more about T as one of its key challenges, the need for their cancer and follow up care. To see if they are cancer services to explore the needs of people living of benefit these days are being aimed at patients with and beyond cancer; this has also been called who are approximately six months after finishing Cancer Survivorship. treatment. In order to support the exploration and Other interventions being tested are ten development of services that are appropriate for week living well with and beyond cancer course people at this time North Bristol Trust cancer based at Penny Brohn Cancer Care for patients who services are leading on a cancer Survivorship are beyond this six month period. These groups project supported by NHS Improvement and also focus on topics such as nutritional information Macmillan. and diet but offer a further level of individual and The team at North Bristol have been group support. working in partnership with Penny Brohn Cancer The team at North Bristol have a wide steering Care and The University of the West of England to group supporting this work including patient develop and test lifestyle management training and representatives. In addition focus groups with support for patients with breast, colorectal, urology patients have told us where we need to concentrate and haematological cancers. effort and where difficulties are often experienced. The aim of the project is to provide and test In light of this two five week courses run by a interventions that nurture the recovery of everyday clinical psychologist and clinical nurse specialist are life functioning, independence, confidence and being tested with breast and prostate cancer morale. The approach is aimed to be patient- patients. These courses are offered at centred with a strong emphasis on informed choice approximately two months finishing treatment a and personal control time when lots of people identify a need for support Groups of patients have been invited to in the transition from cancer treatment to recovery attend patient conferences or “big clinics” where the of everyday life. Clinical nurse specialists co ordinate an informative Marika Hills - [email protected] day on topics such as diet and exercise as well as Dany Bell - [email protected]

WHO SAID IT? (answers page 20)

Th e following are quotations from famous ( infamous) people. Who?

1. I have taken more out of alcohol than alcohol has taken out of me ...... 2. I want to be alone ...... 3. Germany will either be a world power or will not be at all ...... 4. Come up and see me sometime ...... 5. Cauliflower is a cabbage with a college education ...... 6. I don’t watch television. I think it destroys the art of talking about oneself ...... 7. We are not amused ...... 8. I’m not afraid to die. I just don’t want to be there when it happens ...... Lynn 0117 9832895, Olive 0117 9355405, 9. Stop me and buy one ...... 10. I’m the girl who lost her reputation and never missed it ......

Who says you can't have fun when you have cancer? By Meena Reetooraz-Yeomans

I was diagnosed with bone cancer earlier this

year (my second round of cancer). Physical circumstances have meant I have been taking it slowly and carefully. But there I was sat watching Glastonbury festival on the TV on a Friday night in June, with tears in my eyes wondering if I'd ever make another summer festival. Then a crazy urge took over. I texted my friend who is married to a musician playing at Glastonbury and she wangled me a ticket to go. Before I knew it I was being driven to the festival on a Sunday evening to go and rock out to the Prodigy no less! Here are some pictures of myself, my sister, boyfriend and friends having fun

pictures taken by Nicky Gravestock

You’ve got to dance like there’s nobody watching Love like you’ll never be hurt. Sing like there’s nobody listening. And live like it’s heaven on earth.

PROSTATE CANCER

Prospect is the Bristol and District Prostate Cancer Somerset Prostate Support Support Group. Association was formed in 2003 with a In brief our aims are to: handful of men who wanted to support other newly ∗ provide a local informal group for meeting diagnosed men and to spread awareness across other prostate cancer patients and their support- Somerset as much as possible. ers, where individual experiences of treatments The Association now has 265 members and their side effects can be exchanged. with two MPs and Sir Ranulph Fiennes as patrons. We hold quarterly meetings in Taunton and six ∗ offer support to men who suspect that they may monthly meetings in Yeovil where we attempt to have prostate cancer or have been diagnosed have speakers who will not only inform but answer with the disease and feel that they need more the many questions that men have. Partners are al- information or support to decide the best way ways encouraged to attend and are most welcome. forward. A small library is available and many leaflets on most aspects of prostate problems, diet etc. are ∗ keep patients in touch with medical profession- available. als so that they have an up-to-date knowledge

of medical developments.

∗ champion the cause of prostate cancer patients and generally raise awareness of the disease. We meet regularly throughout the year at BAWA Filton when a guest speaker will talk to the group followed by a free buffet and an opportunity for members and their supporters to chat informally and exchange ideas and experiences. We are also involved in other activities to raise awareness of Prostate Cancer generally and several of our members sit on the NHS committees and work- Upon diagnosis men are often only given ing groups specifically involved in Prostate Cancer. In two or three treatment choices and then asked September, as part of the annual Run for the Future, Pros- which one they prefer. Somerset PSA have a list of pect once again organised free PSA testing for men. Sev- fifteen local men using ten different treatments who enty five men were tested and received individual notifica- are available to phone to pass on their experiences. tion of their results (as did their GPs). It was notable that Members receive two quarterly newsletters. we had many “repeat” visits from the year before. One local with up to date news of events, reports and usually the story of a man’s prostate journey. Our 2010 Events Calendar has just been printed The other newsletter contains national and interna- and the early part of our programme finalised. Represen- tional news of what is happening in the prostate tatives from the Harbour will be talking to our January world. meeting about counselling in general and about the ser- A comprehensive website is available for vices they offer to the Bristol and District community. In those just looking for a bit of information on the March we will be visiting the Penny Brohn Centre for a prostate or those looking for a more in depth expla- lunch and tour of the Centre. nation Should anyone want more information about Pros- www.somersetprostatecancer.org.uk pect then please call Malcolm Gamlin on 01275 859419 or For More information on Somerset Prostate Support visit our website Association contact Peter Loader on the helpline www.prostatecancerbristol.org.uk 01460 62935.

THE BRISTOL MYELOMA SUPPORT GROUP

he Bristol Myeloma Support Group started up clinical trials to complementary therapies and much T in 2007 with the help and support of Myeloma more. UK which is the only UK organisation dealing ex- This year has been a busy time for the group. clusively with myeloma and its related disorders. We took members out on the road with a “road The group which has gone from strength to show” visiting various hospitals and cancer support strength had intended to celebrate its third birthday centres in Bristol and surrounding areas giving out in January 2010 with a group carvery evening but information on myeloma, plus holding a free prize unfortunately had to cancel due to bad weather. draw. Much of this was done in the summer around Members travel from Bristol and the sur- the time of Awareness Week for Myeloma UK and rounding counties to attend meetings which are held over £600 was raised from hand-crafted items made bi-monthly on the third Tuesday of the month in the by group members which was donated to Myeloma evening between 7 - 9 pm. It is a friendly patient- UK. run group with a total of over 60 members, around We also promoted the support group and 30—40 of them attending each meeting and every- Myeloma UK to patients, hospital staff and passers- body is very willing to join in and help out. by which resulted in many new members to the Meetings are varied. Some are social eve- group. nings and some involve having guest speakers visit In September a Retail Therapy Walk was or- to talk on a variety of interesting topics ranging from ganised by Myeloma UK to raise funds for research up-to-date information on myeloma treatments and into myeloma. Around £10,000 was raised.

Get your views heard about cancer services and help us improve them Avon, Somerset and Wiltshire Cancer Services (ASWCS) Network aims to improve the quality of local cancer services. We work in partnership with cancer patients and carers as well as health professionals and voluntary organisations. An essential part of improving cancer care is listening and acting on the views of people affected by cancer. Your views as patients and carers affected by cancer help us learn how to make a difference to local cancer services so that they can reflect what patients and carers need. How to get involved There are several ways you can get involved including: Joining the ASWCS User Involvement Group Receiving the ASWCS User Involvement Group newsletter Attending local patient/carer events Joining ASWCS tumour site specific groups Joining the Consumer Research Partnership Panel Tra ining and Support Training is provided by Macmillan Cancer Support and buddy support is offered from another user repre- sentative. All out of pocket expenses are reimbursed for user involvement meetings, events and conferences. For more information on how to get involved, please contact Nikki Smith, ASWCS Patient and Public In- volvement Lead, Tel: 0117 9002321, Email: [email protected].

IN MEMORY OF A VERY SPECIAL PERSON

A cheque for £100 was

gratefully received by the

Information and Support Centre.

Peter and Bozenna Craig

donated the money in

memory of their son Krystian .

The group is held at the day hospice on a Tues- day morning 10-12 am and is run by an Occupational therapist, Physiotherapist and Nursing staff. The sessions consist of discussion time, gentle exercise, and relaxation. Simple homework tasks are set each week which will build on your progress. Coping with Fatigue and

Breathlessness. Don’t just take our word for it, some of the things people have told us: atigue is the feeling of extreme tiredness all or most of the time, often not improved by rest. “Nice to know there are things I can do for my- F Breathlessness can be another very distressing self” symptom and often goes hand in hand with fatigue. “It’s unusual to treat Fatigue in such a way, Does any of this sound familiar? it’s been really helpful” It may do because they are symptoms experienced by a significant number of patients suffering from “The care offered and the explanations could- cancer. They can be caused by a variety of different fac- n’t be faulted. I would highly recommend it” tors and are often difficult to treat by taking a tablet. “I found it useful to talk to others in a similar At St. Peters Hospice over the past 2 years we situation” have developed a 6 week programme designed to help combat those feelings. Using commonly used and well recognised techniques, we help you indentify practical Samantha Marshall Occupational therapist St. realistic goals and find ways of achieving them. As a re- Peters Hospice sult a sense of control can be re-established and levels of independence improved. It is important to find a balance between activity We welcome people at all stages of their illness. and rest. Each week we focus on a different area of your If you feel you could benefit and you would be interested life. Energy levels, exercise, nutrition, sleep, breathing in joining us ask your health care professional to refer control and relaxation and on the final week we encour- you. age family to join us so the skills learned can be taken Further information can be found on our website at forward beyond the group. www.stpetershospice.org

The Cancer Information MISSING LINKS (answers page 20) and Support Centre received a donation of Find a word which forms a link between the two words - £100 from Jack and eg. Gift……. Up ( wrap) 1. hanging ……… ball 2. salted ……….. butter Helen Moody-Grant in 3. hunger ………… back 4. human ……….. reserve appreciation of the 5. stock ………… rate 6. bay ……..…… ledge 7. chief …………. lash 8. nest …………. white support received from the 9. conference …... shape 10. spin ……..…. hat Centre. 11. Jersey …….…. shed 12. generation ..... year

Lymphoma Association Bristol and District Support Group n about 1998 Lucy Pedlar joined the Lymphoma Support Group which meets in Bristol. She had developed I Hodgkins Disease while at University undertaking a degree in Art and Sculpture. She was a wonderful asset to the group being such a positive, outgoing and supportive young lady. She was able to return to finish her degree and as part of her work towards it she made a scale model of a hospital corridor complete with doors opening off each side leading to more little rooms. Lucy was exploring the industrial and alien- ating qualities of some of the hospital spaces and their emotional impact on the patients and staff, illustrating what she felt when she was having treatment, when long corridors held unknown things behind those doors. Lucy talked about this and other similar pieces in Leeds at the Lymphoma National Conference in May 2001 and also at her old school, Redland High School as well as exhibiting it in at Spike Island in Bristol. Since gaining her degree she has kept in touch with the group and has been able to join us at some of our meetings. She is always a very welcome breath of fresh air and her commitment to support friends within the group continues. I had the privilege of attending Lucy’s wedding in July and the group met Nik, Lucy’s husband, at a recent group meeting when he talked to us about his painting, printmaking and illustrations for children’s books. He incorporates his interest in wildlife into this work. Both he and Lucy are currently based at Marlborough College taking part in the Artist in Residence programme. The contact the Group have had with Lucy has enriched all our lives and we are thrilled to have been able to see her progress from her illness, complete her degree, find a good job and then get married and we wish her and Nik a wonderful life together and they will always be welcome to visit us and inspire us. The Lymphoma Association was formed 21 years ago and the Bristol Group very soon afterwards and continues to thrive and provide a place where patients, carers, family members and friends can meet to com- pare experiences and also hear talks on a variety of subjects as well as en- joying social events together. We are always happy to welcome new members. We meet on the 4 th Monday in most months at 7.30 p.m. usually at Wills Hall, Parry’s Lane, Bristol but further information can be obtained by contacting Mary Walters 01275 875551 mary_walters@talktalk .net

WHERE IN THE WORLD

M A A P A L E S T I N E V D A L A P E N

N M M U S W I T Z E R L A N D U M S S E

A R E R A U M E X I C O Y N N G I C N W G U R U S P T R I N I D A D A U B O H Z

F B I L K N H O Y N A M R E G R Q T I E

I L C A N A D A G J S V B W U E N L N A

N H A A F R I C A E J U E G Y P T A D L L W P U L S L H L B L P T F B C T N O A

A S T S O A R A N B I E T B D H E D N N

N O U T D A W I N E Z T N E Y I N P E D

D A R R N J O A K R A V Y L D L G U S S

K I K A G O P R B I R A N G W E L H I Y V S E L B A N H I A B F B U R P A O A I G S Y I J I B K T U N I S I A R N L I R Y U P A A D R Y C A S T I M O W D L E E

A R W P Z A I S P U R B A N D O R A C L

W S S G M Q U A D D L I Q V D X A N N A

R O I N D I A A W Q C A N I H C W D A N O L E A R M N C L A P L A N D Y S A R D N D L E B A N O N N A I N A M U R O F T

How many locations did you find? Can you find more than 40? Answers on page 20

THE DAISY NETWORK This organisation supports, informs The Daisy Network is the only na- They have a quarterly newsletter and links girls and women who have tionwide support group for women which is full of the latest news about been affected by a premature meno- who have suffered a premature meno- premature menopause, HRT and IVF, pause. Premature menopause is de- pause. They link girls, women, their people’s experiences, views and ideas fined as the onset of the menopause friends and families together through as well as a list of Networkers. before the age of 45. There may be their Networkers. The Networkers Contact information is a recorded many reasons for this including dam- are members who have volunteered to helpline on 0845 122 8616: or send a age to ovaries during pelvic surgery, take calls, to listen to and talk about stamped address envelope to The chemotherapy or radiotherapy treat- problems, answer questions and per- Daisy Network, PO Box 183, Rossen- ment or removal of the ovaries due to haps arrange a get-together in a spe- dale, BB4 6WZ: or cysts or in conjunction with a hyster- cific area. www.daisynetwork.org.uk ectomy.

Cancer Information and Support Centre

WHO WE ARE he Cancer Information & Support Centre is the first centre that is run by ex- TTT patients and carers. We have two full time members of staff and a team of dedicated volunteers. All of the staff have personal experience of cancer and our volunteers under- take training in listening skills and how to provide support and information sensitively before taking up the position of volunteer in the centre Drop-in Service We are a Drop-in-centre for anyone whose life has been affected by cancer. We are open Monday – Thursday 9am–5pm, Fridays 9am -4.30 pm. You do not need to make an appointment.

Our Telephone Helpline is 0117 342 3369 You may just want to talk or need signposting to a service to fit your need. We can send information di- rectly to you if you are unable to drop in. We also accept referrals from healthcare professionals.

INFORMATION Come and help ∗ A warm and friendly environment, where you can discuss how cancer is affecting your life. Our service is free and confidential to . anyone affected by cancer; their relatives; friends and carers. Headstart ∗ Information on all aspects of living with cancer and cancer aware- Would you be interested in ness becoming a volunteer. ∗ Details of other organisations both locally and nationally Can you offer us a few hours a week? ∗ Information on all types of cancer and treatments If so, please contact Carol ∗ Free copies of a DVD ‘Preparing for Chemotherapy’ Hill 0117 9046176 or ∗ Information on benefits and allowances Margaret Pritchard ∗ Travel Insurance information 0117 967 1975 ∗ Park and Ride/Hospital bus service timetables ∗ Financial Assistance information

Help to relax - we offer a Relaxation CD and booklet for £2

Cancer Information and Support Centre

OUR SERVICES

oping with cancer usually involves a lot of changes in people’s lives: meeting new doctors, strange C tests, unfamiliar treatments and so many hospital appointments. Your working life may have had to change: relationships may seem different. With so much stress, some people find it helpful to talk to a trained listener who is not involved in their lives . Our service is free and confidential to anyone affected by cancer; their relatives; friends and carers. SUPPORT ∗ A safe space to talk through your worries about diagnosis, treatment, family difficulties, ending treatment ∗ emotional support by trained people who have experience of cancer ∗ support for partners and carers, advice for couples ∗ access to other areas of support ∗ bereavement support Managing the Stress of Cancer

Why not pick up a free copy of the Managing the Stress of Cancer booklet written by one of the BHOC

resident clinical psychologists . Other booklets are available on anxiety and sleep problems.

Red Cross - Learn to relax

Head, Neck and Shoulder Massage and Nail Care is provided by The Red Cross. The sessions are free to patients, carers and staff. Come and book a session at the Information Centre.

Patients will need to pick up a consent form to be signed by a medical professional before attending the session.

Look Good Feel Better - Book a FUN session with us

These sessions offer advice on skin care and make-up for women undergoing treatment. Ladies can attend one session whilst going through their treatment Call in at the centre to book.

Headstart —A DROP-IN SERVICE . Wednesday from 10am-4pm. The Headstart ladies will be available to help and assist with headwear for patients experiencing hair loss.

Turbans —A selection of turbans supplied by Liz Woods the Hair Consultant is available to buy at the Centre .

A NEW PATIENT SERVICE FOR THE BRISTOL HAEMATOLOGY & ONCOLOGY CENTRE W e are very pleased to offer our The service provides advice on patients a Welfare Benefits Welfare Benefits, Tax Credits, Health Costs, Disability Exemptions and Charita- Advice Service for anyone who has ble Grants. The Advisors will also help been diagnosed with cancer. with challenging decisions where Macmillan Cancer Support and appropriate. Bristol Citizen Advice Bureau have teamed This is a confidential service, your up to provide this service for people being personal information will not be passed on treated within the Bristol PCT area. The without your permission. service is available to cancer patients at Your clinical nurse specialist can BHOC and also to those patients attending refer you to the service or you can call into North Bristol Trust, Southmead, Frenchay the Information & Support Centre situated Hospital, Whitchurch Health Centre, St on the ground floor (near the main en- Peter’s Hospice and Downend Health trance) where staff will take your details Centre. and refer you on to the benefits service. The Benefits Advisors are available Those who wish to can self refer by con- by appointment only to see people at the tacting the Advisors direct on 0117 Haematology & Oncology Centre on Mon- 9462563. day & Tuesday mornings or all day

Wednesdays.

NEW ADDITION TO THE HEADSTART SERVICE In addition to the Wednesday service in The Information and Support Centre that Headstart presently run for ladies experiencing hair loss, the service has now been expanded to include the clinic at Whitchurch. If you are worried by the prospect of hair loss, Headstart can provide a wealth of advice on how to tie scarves, wear hats etc. Headstart advisors will bring along scarves and other headwear for you to choose from and purchase. Headstart are offering their service by appointment only at the Whitchurch clinic. Patients can access the service at Whitchurch either through their chemotherapy nurse; the Information & Support Centre on 0117 3423369; or ring Headstart advisor Carol Hill on 0117 9046176.

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THE BRISTOL AREA? Use the clues to find the following locations Answers on page 20

1. Bristol’s Bemmie ………. 2. Did your flight arrive at this colour? ……. 3. Did a famous WW2 leader really live here? ……… 4. Legendary dragon slayer .. …… 5. Add coals to this purple vested churchman ….. …… 6. Who moved this London cathedral to Bristol? .. ….. 7. 2240 lbs follow this tree. …… 8. Have the people from across the river returned? ….. … 9. Saline shallow river crossing …….. 10. A noise at this source of drinking water ……… 11. The baby’s bed is in front of the cured pork …… 12. Was this where a Royal person took a tumble? ……… 13. What does this 30th November possess? .. ……. 14. Royal hunting forest ……… 15. Winter’s stuff in the dancing place ……...

Tips for buff and scarf wearers We have received the following useful PHOTOS tips from Maureen Emery and Glenda FROM Lovell. CLIMB 1. Add a light piece of sponge 1/4 “ x 5” shaped to the front of the head to add height underneath AGAINST your scarf. CANCER 2. To make a handy bag from a buff for outdoor (See story or household items i.e. make-up, shoes, hair- dryer etc. from a buff which is no longer needed on page 3) • Close un-hemmed end with stitching. • Thread drawstring through the hem end.

BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

The 'Breast Reconstruction professionals (plastic surgeons, involved and not by NHS funding. for Life’ DVD has been breast care nurses and Although it is provided free produced to provide patients who anaesthetists). Central to the film is of charge, all donations are are scheduled for, or have a patient who is followed from welcome to help cover costs. undergone a mastectomy with diagnosis through reconstruction Please visit the Queen Vic- comprehensive information and return to life before surgery. toria Hospital page of the Charity regarding the options for breast Production of the DVD has Choice website, or see reconstruction. been made possible by Consultant www.charitychoice.co.uk/donation It has contributions from a Plastic Surgeon Mr Charles Nduka The suggested donation is £5, but variety of patients and health care and the voluntary any donations are gratefully re- contributions/time of those ceived.

Beauty tips Local Lymphoedema Suppo rt (this was read at the funeral of Audrey Group Launches New Website Hepburn)

The Bristol and District Lymphoedema Support For attractive lips, speak words of kind- Group was formed about four years ago by a group of people living with primary or secondary Lym- ness. phoedema. This condition leads to swelling of the For lovely eyes, seek out the good in peo- limbs often following cancer, injury or surgery. ple. Living with Lymphoedema can mean that people run the risk of becoming isolated or depressed. For a slim figure, share your food with the Even simple everyday tasks such as buying clothes hungry can become more of a challenge. However we are For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her determined as a group to have fun together whilst learning more about our condition, treat- fingers through it once a day. ments and offering support to each other. For poise, walk with the knowledge that The group meets four times a year at St. you never walk alone. Andrews Methodist Church from 7.30 – 9pm on People even more than things, have to be the first Tuesday of March, June, September and December. We sometimes have a visiting speaker restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and and sometimes just meet to catch up and share ex- redeemed; never throw out anyone. periences. New members are always given a warm Remember, if you ever need a helping welcome with partners and friends also welcomed. hand, you will find one at the end of your Last April a group of members attended the arms. first International Lymphoedema conference in Ascot and we are now planning our next day out at As you grow older, you the forthcoming conference in March 2010 at will discover that you Brighton. have two hands; one for We recently launched our new website which can helping yourself and the be accessed at: other for helping others. [email protected] Please log on for more details!

16 What’s new with Testicular Cancer in the South West ?

esticular Cancer is the commonest form of cancer the men wanting to give something back and raise T in younger men but remains relatively rare. The awareness, as one said “don’t die of embarrassment”. care and treatment of men with Testicular Cancer is pro- The topics discussed centred around pre-diagnosis, on vided by a Specialist Centre (Bristol). treatment, post follow-up support, websites, informa- Testicular Cancer is highly curable with the ap- tion, buddies system and fund/awareness raising. Many propriate treatment and follow-up, even when the cancer were concerned that Testicular Cancer did not have a has spread to other organs of the body national identity and needed a figure head to help raise The Specialist Team in Bristol is led by Medical On- awareness in the South West. The group looked at infor- cologist Dr Jeremy Braybrooke and in June 2008 mation available at all stages and concluded lack of in- UHBristol employed Sue Brand Germ Cell Clinical formation in the GP surgeries and post orchidectomy. A Nurse Specialist to join the Specialist Team and to im- new network post-op leaflet was being looked at and prove the care and support of men with Testicular Can- hoped to be available in the New Year. The new leaflet cer. for men newly diagnosed was well received and a few changes were made at the men’s request, including 2 websites they felt were very good. The group identified that they wanted a local website to let men know what was available and to be launched in the New Year. This was not to reinvent the wheel but inform of local issues and have links to other good sites. Many of the group liked the idea of becoming buddies of those new to treatment and this would be investigated to ensure con- fidentiality, volunteer support and matching. However the main topic became how the group could help others by raising money and awareness. One idea was to have a Testicular Ball (excuse the pun) in June 2010, to launch some of the projects, raise aware- Based in the Bristol Haematology and Oncol- ness, raise money and promote team work and user in- ogy Centre she has instigated many changes to support volvement. There were some great ideas about having a new patients, patients receiving chemotherapy and those logo, orange wrist bands, orange orchids for the ladies, in follow up. orange bow ties, the list goes on….. The group then ex- Often communication is using a modality of ited to Colston Yard for a pint or two, where Sue was patient choice includes text and email; this has also officially granted honorary male status! helped the communication difficulties of young men. Information leaflets have been produced about the MDT, service and other areas that were not covered by A special projects fund with Above and Be- generic information and a training package for staff di- yond Charities called: It’s in the bag (name rectly involved in testicular cancer patient care. There is improvement of the sperm storage organisation, which voted for by men with Testicular Cancer) kick started a poster for the Nurse Day celebrations in has been formed, which aims to provide May 2009. monies for user activities, staff develop- In August, Sue organised the first meeting ment, specialised equipment and patient aimed at asking men what support they would like. The meeting was attended by 7 men, Sue Brand, Sue Sten- support. We have a few fund raisers already gall and Dr Susanna Alexander and was followed up by who are on track to raise £15,000! Any a meeting in November, when Dr Braybrooke also at- charity event can raise money for us! tended. There were many issues discussed, especially

ANGER (written after the death of the poet’s THE KITE AT BREAN daughter Victoria from leukaemia in 2008) (dedicated to Victoria Paniale on the 1st anniversary of her death)

I’m going to roll my anger into a

rock hard ball Barefoot and breathless and hurl it in their faces a lone kite buzzing slap it on the ground and jump on it lifting and swooping pummel it and knead it like dough on the salt sea breeze and bake it at 200 oC

then serve it up on a platter A lone kite buzzing and offer it to those who stayed spotted wings flapping away on the salt sea breeze distancing themselves from our eyes blind from the sun. pain

Spotted wings flapping I’ll frame my anger gulls screeching and squarking and exhibit it for all to see eyes blind from the sun advertise it on ebay on a flat green sea place it on that empty plinth in

Trafalgar Square Gulls screeching and squarking I’ll pack it in a ruck sack lifting and swooping and climb Everest with it on my barefoot and breathless back. to celebrate you Then I’ll leave it at the summit as my cross

These poems were written by Victoria’s mother Patricia as part of the Creating Writing course facilitated by Fiona Hamilt on.

Support for Minority Ethnic Cancer Patients

revious readers of this newsletter will already effort to increase attendance to breast screening ap- P know about the CHEC (Cancer Help for Mi- pointments. The response of the women who at- nority Ethnic Communities) service. CHEC is a tended these sessions was extremely positive and NHS service providing advice, information and early indications are that these sessions may have support for BME (Black & Minority Ethnic) people contributed to the recent increase in the uptake of with cancer and their families. The main aims of breast screening services. More recently, CHEC the service are to assist in the provision of cultur- has been working along with one of the BHOC ally appropriate and accessible cancer care and to based clinical psychologists; piloting a days work- raise awareness of cancer among BME communi- shop with newly recruited interpreters covering ties where awareness is known to be low. The ser- general cancer awareness, breaking bad news, con- vice covers Bristol and South Gloucestershire Pri- fidentiality and also managing the impact a pa- mary Care Trust areas. http://www.avon.nhs.uk/ tient’s diagnosis may have on them in terms of their palliative/ role as interpreter and the likelihood of them being Recent Work part of the same community as the patient. In the past 18 months, the CHEC worker CHEC is also part of the Bristol cervical has spoken on local community based radio stations screening uptake group which is looking at ways of about cancer awareness and cancer services and has reaching younger women and helping them to un- delivered talks to various groups including:- church derstand the importance of attending screening ap- congregations mostly attended by African and Car- pointments. The CHEC service has also been con- ibbean people, a South Asian Elderly Men’s group tributing to the Breast Care Services Review, help- and people from the Chinese community across ing to raise and address issues that may affect peo- Bristol and South Gloucestershire. CHEC has also ple from minority ethnic backgrounds. had information stalls at special health events; one Anyone can refer to the CHEC ser- held for the Polish community and another for the vice or find out more information about the Somali community. service by phoning Marion Burrell on 0117 The service also worked jointly with Avon 982 8549 or e:mail [email protected] . Breast Screening; delivering awareness sessions to groups of women from BME backgrounds in an

TWO SPECIAL DRIVERS CHEMOTHERAPY DVD It is with such regret that we have said farewell to two very special drivers. Produced to give you some key Ken Thompson had been a volunteer driver with the Red Cross for the past year and information about chemotherapy and Roger Burton was a driver for over five years working for Amcar uk. what it is like to have this treatment. Ken and Roger were two wonderful people who were brilliant with patients in their Available free from care and many a time they went beyond the Information and that of just a driver. Support Centre at BHOC. They will be sadly missed by us all.

Hammer Out Brain Tumour Support Group

ince September 2009 Bristol Hammer Out and we are on a direct bus route from Bristol. S Brain Tumour support group has undergone a A Festive evening was held on Wednes- number of changes. day 16 th December with mulled wine, nibbles and The charity has moved into larger prem- mince pies on offer. ises, which has given us more working space and The dates for the meetings next year are our own meeting room. We decided to re-launch th the support group from the office, meeting every Wednesday 17 February 11.00-3.00pm other month on the third Wednesday 11.00- 3.00pm. Tea, coffee and biscuits are available as st well as lunch if people want to stay all day. Blos- Wednesday 21 April 11.00-3.00pm som Therapeutic Counselling work very closely along side Hammer Out and someone from the service is always available if anyone wants to talk. Wednesday 16 th June 11.00-3.00pm Speakers are also invited to the meetings to give talks on relevant issues which the group may have st asked for. Wednesday 21 July 11.00-3.00pm . The meetings prior to this had been on an evening and at St Peters Hospice in Brentry. The contact details for Hammer Out: Whilst we are really grateful to the Hospice for Unit One, Thornbury Office Park, Thornbury BS35 the invaluable support they gave to Hammer Out 2BS over the six years we used their premises, we felt a complete change for the support group was For further details please contact Anne Coles, Patient needed. The ground floor office has its own park- and Family Support Co-ordinator ing spaces, along with disabled access and toilet Tel: 0845 4501039 or 01454 422701 facilities. Thornbury is a pleasant market town Mob: 07923 413304

Who said it (answers) 6. Stephen Fry Bristol Quiz 6. St Pauls 7. Ashton 1. Winston Churchill 7. Queen Victoria (answers) 8. Welsh Back 2. Greta Garbo 8. Woody Allen 1. Bedminster 9. Saltford 3. Adolph Hitler 9. Walls icecream advert 2. Redland 10. Soundwell 3. Churchill 10. Mae West 11. Cotham 4. Mae West 4. St George 12. Kingsdown 5. Mark Twain 5. Stoke 13. St Andrews Bishop 14. Kingswood

Where in the world (answers) Missing Links 7. whip There were 42 locations . (answers) 8. egg Africa America Andora Australia Belgium Brazil 9. pear Burma Canada Chile China Cuba Denmark Egypt 1. basket 10. bowler England Finland France Germany Holland India 2. peanut 11. cow Indonesia Iran Ireland Japan Lebanon Lapland Mex- 3. strike 12. g ap ico Nepal New Zealand Norway Palestine Peru Ru- 4. native mania Russia Scotland Spain Sudan Switzerland 5. exchange Trinidad Tunisia Turkey Uganda Wales 6. window

SPOTLIGHT AWARDS Many congratulations to the following recipients of Bristol May winner Onocology and Haematology Centre’s Spotlight Awards.

May winner Phil Matthews (IT department) June winner All Radiology staff and Receptionist July winner Denise Gibson (Patient Services Manager) August winner Becky Summerfield (medical records) September winner Linda Parry ( Health Care Assistant) October winner Zoe Murray (Health Services Assistant) November winner Chris Millman (Sarcoma CNS)

Bristol Ostomates Support Group. BOSS

he BOSS support group was started in 1991 home visits. T when a group of nurses realised that there was Any member of BOSS going into hospital a shortfall in support for new patients facing the un- will not be forgotten and our welfare co-ordinator certainty of having a stoma formed and what that will ensure that they have what they need and keep would entail. These nurses set out on a mission to in contact with them until they are home again. deal with this and arranged an inaugural meeting to We produce a newsletter twice a year with discuss the need for a support group. It soon became useful addresses, ideas and news about our mem- clear that this was a very popular idea and a core bers. This goes out to the hospitals and is another group of patients formed a committee to run this good way to spread the word about or support group. group. The group has roughly 100 members whose Dates and information of future meetings: families, friends and carers are also welcome at the All the meetings are held on the first floor of meetings. They come from all over the South West The Broadmead Baptist Church Hall which and meet 4 times a year in Bristol. We open the meeting by introducing new members and then a is at the bottom of Union Street on the right speaker will talk on a variety of different subjects. hand side as you go down. This is followed by refreshments and a good chance for people to mix and get to know each other. It is a 2010 March 6 th at 2.00. very friendly group and no one needs to feel alone. June 5 th at 2.00 New patients with a stoma may feel quite isolated September 4 th at 2.00 and not able to discuss any problems they are hav- th ing. December 4 at 2.00 This is the place to meet others who may have experienced similar problems and have now For more information please call overcome them. A stoma care nurse attends all our Christina Hammond 0117 9075326. meetings and our members are able to discuss any Joyce Roderick 0117 9558236. problems with her in confidence, she will also do Rob Malkin 0117 9668021

Showing we CaRE… ver the coming months you may begin to see a lot of building work taking place O within Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre. This is the culmination of several years work planning and consulting and will lead to a major transformation of the Centre. We wanted to take this opportunity to let you know a little more about what is going on…

Why is this work taking place?? The BHOC opened in 1971 and cares for more than 6,500 individuals diagnosed with cancer every year, with up to 1,000 visitors passing through the centre each day. Forty years of caring for Bristol’s cancer patients has taken its toll on the building and patients agree that, like the Bristol Heart Institute, it needs to reflect the outstanding care and dedication of the people who work there. Dr Peter Wilde, Head of Specialist Services agrees. “The patients we treat in the BHOC are frequently passing through a very difficult time in their lives and we are anxious to ensure that their experiences are as comfortable as possible. We have always delivered the highest standard of medical services but we also know that for patients, families and staff, a good environment makes an enormous difference.”

What areas of the centre will be affected? The works will focus on five key areas: • Transforming the reception area to create a bright and welcoming environment for patients and visitors. • Redesigning the Outpatients Department so that patients have greater privacy by increasing the number of clinic rooms and creating quiet rooms. • Relocating patient support services to the front entrance of the building and refurbishing the information centre. • Refurbishing the Radiotherapy waiting area (funded by the Friends of BHOC) • Developing an Arts Programme for the Centre to provide a calming and relaxing environment throughout the building.

Who is funding this work? This work is being funded by three groups. University Hospitals Bristol have provided £500,000 to move services and create more available space within BHOC, the Friends of BHOC have agreed to provide £350,000 to fund the refurbishment of the waiting areas on the Radiotherapy Floor and Above and Beyond Charities have committed £1.6million towards the transformation of the reception area, outpatients department and stair wells. Above and Be- yond have been able to secure £1.1million towards the total cost of the project from past donations, however, £500,000 still needs to be raised by autumn 2010. To do this, they have launched the CaRE Appeal (Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Environment Appeal) which aims to raise the funds needed to complete the project.

How do I find out more? You can find out more about the CaRE Appeal and the refurbishment by visiting www.aboveandbeyond.org.uk or telephoning 0117 9277120. Equally please feel free to talk to any member of staff and they will do their best to answer questions or point you in the direction of somebody who can.

How can I make a donation or get involved? Over the next year Above and Beyond Charities will be organising a whole range of fundraising events giving people the opportunity to get involved in any number of activities. Equally, we hope that many of the families who have been affected by the work of BHOC might want to get involved either by organising their own event, spreading the word or by making a donation.

You can make a donation online: www.aboveandbeyond.org.uk . By telephone: 0117 927 7120 By post: please send to: Above & Beyond’s CaRE Appeal, The Abbot’s House, Blackfriars, Bristol, BS1 2NZ

Together we can make a real difference to cancer patients and their families in Bristol and the South West.

BRISTOL SARCOMA SUPPORT GROUP The newly formed Bristol who have likely been come each month, others Sarcoma Support Group through the same thing. drop in occasionally but the held its first meeting in July There is normally a door is always open. 2009.The group is for any- speaker for the first half of We meet on the third one affected by a sarcoma the meeting, followed by Monday of each month and members include pa- free time to talk. Speakers from 4pm to 6pm in the tients currently undergoing include a psychologist, bene- Windsor Room at the Bris- treatment, those in remission fits adviser and physiothera- tol General Hospital . and family members, friends pist. Although Sarcoma and carers. For further informa- Nurse Specialist Christine tion please contact Christine We meet monthly to Millman comes along, the Millman (Sarcoma Nurse offer support and friendship, group is patient-led and Specialist) on 0117 3424849 with the aim of providing a members’ input is always or visit our website: safe environment where peo- welcome. www.bristolsarcomasupport. ple are free to express what Attendance is entirely co.uk they are feeling with others to suit you; some people

Sarcomas are cancers of connective tissues, such as bone, muscle, nerves and cartilage. They account for about 1% of all cancer diagno- ses each year.

I Like Hugs

It is wonderful what a hug can do, A hug delights and warms and charms, It cheers you up when you’re sad and blue. It must be why God A hug can say, ”I love you so” gave us arms Or “I hate to see you go”. So stretch those arms without delay A hug is ,”welcome back again!” And give someone a A hug can soothe a small child’s pain, hug today. And bring a rainbow after rain. The hug! There’s just no doubt about it, We scarcely can survive without it.

therapy. You will be able to read about fatigue Ψ The clinical psychology management training in the next issue of Voice. Next year the psychology team are hoping to department at the BHOC run a course on living with cancer and managing uncertainty after the treatment is finished. D id you know that there is a clinical psychology HOW CAN PSYCHOLOGISTS HELP STAFF ? dept in the BHOC? Well there is, but it’s quite Although a lot of our work involves meeting small – only three clinical psychologists actually, and patients face-to-face, an equally important role is to one of us is part-time. There’s also a part-time share our knowledge and skills with other staff. psychologist working at St Michael’s Hospital in the Psychological care is the responsibility of all staff and gynaecological cancer service there. In fact there has it is important that if any patient is worried about how been a clinical psychologist in the BHOC since 1992 – they are managing emotionally they feel comfortable that’s 17 years. But what do we do and why does the mentioning this to any member of staff. The BHOC have us here as part of the service? psychologists therefore run training programmes for WHAT DO PSYCHOLOGISTS DO? staff in managing distress, provide a lot of staff with The first thing to know is that psychologists are clinical supervision and support, and we contribute to not psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who the communication skills training that goes on in the diagnose and treat mental illnesses, usually with drugs. Trust more widely. Clinical psychologists on the other hand draw on psy- We are also currently developing and chological theories and research about how researching a method of helping front-line staff (such people in general think, feel and behave. We prefer not as nurses and radiographers) identify and respond to to diagnose people but we do know a lot about how to any concerns patients may be having during the course recognise when people are distressed and over- of their treatment and beyond (this is known as the whelmed, what may be going on, and importantly what distress thermometer). can be done to help. We work collaboratively with our ARE THERE ANY INFORMATION MATERIALS patients to find a way forward to resolve the problem, I CAN OBTAIN? whatever it is. Finally, the clinical psychology department has WHAT HELP MAY BE AVAILABLE? produced a number of information materials which are Some clinical psychologists work in healthcare available through the Cancer Information and Support settings such as cancer hospitals like the BHOC. Here Centre and which are free and which you are welcome we work with individuals, couples and families to help to pick up: people adapt to the impact of their illness. Talking with Managing the Stress of Cancer (a general guide to a clinical psychologist can help you with things such your emotional reactions to having cancer) as: Managing your Anxiety – a self-help guide (comes Making sense of how you have been feeling with a CD of relaxation exercises) – this costs Adapting to and coping with a physical illness £2 Managing feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, Overcoming Insomnia – a self-help guide Preparing for Chemotherapy (DVD or video) loss and depression Soon we hope to offer a website which will Learning ways to cope with tests, procedures include all these materials but also a series of short and treatments films ( Living with Cancer ), produced with patients about how they and their families managed their Managing worries and living with uncertainty psychological and emotional reactions during their Supporting people with decisions about treat- illness. If you can offer professional help with the ment design of this website we would love to hear from you! If you feel it would be helpful to see a clinical Finding ways to solve problems and make use psychologist speak to any member of staff including of your own strengths and skills. your GP; they can discuss a referral with you. Helping you to get back to your life after However, you may first wish to see if someone at the treatment has finished Cancer Information and Support Centre can help. It may be that simply talking through a particular problem Helping couples and families with their helps you make better sense of it and enables you to relationships find a way forward. Staff at the Information Centre The department offers a range of more specific may feel, after talking through your needs with you, therapies such as fatigue management training, anxiety that you would be better off seeing a psychologist and management training, and mindfulness-based cognitive in which case they will discuss making a referral with you.

- My friend is so stupid a sea is on she thinks that an auto- Does your other brother y br keep M t. graph is a graph showing himself cle d die an? foo sales figures for cars Oh,Y es. He take ally? ees b s a Re he s ath every more s. year , the e eat whethe Yes ore h r he needs the m or it food not

“Let me inform you young man”, said the slow golfer,” that I was playing golf before you were born.” “That’s all very well, but I’d be obliged if you’d try to finish it before I die”

A young man sat on a train chewing gum and staring vacantly into space. The old lady opposite him glared and said,” It’s no good you talking to me young man. I’m totally deaf” An American visitor was talking to an old man in the pub.

I’m as pretty as a “You’ll have lived here all your flower. life, then?” Yes, a cauli- “No, me dear . Not yet “ the old flower. man said wisely

Logical - .What is black when you buy it, red when you use it and grey when you throw it

away? Charcoal Charcoal

CANCER ORGANISATIONS Collar Group – Head & Neck Cancer Support Christine/Cedric 01454 633284 A1 Lung Cancer Group Brian/Rose 0117 9517915 Sarah - 0117 9596260 Ken Brock [email protected]

BOSS - Ostomy group Cotswold Care Breast Cancer Support Christine Hammond—0117 9075326 Group Maurice Cox 0117 9358949 Kathy Lane 01453 886868

Bath Breast Care Group Daisy Network—Premature Menopause Sup- Mrs G A Hockedy 01225 424252 (9am-6pm) port Group Sister Irene Buckley 01225 428331 ext. 4057 0845 1228616 (9am – 5pm) www.daisynetwork.org.uk

Bath Information & Support Centre GOSH (Gastro Oesophageal Support & Help) 01225 824049 Issy Battiwalla 0117 9701212 Ext 2454

Bosom Buddies – Breast cancer support Gloucestershire Breast Cancer Support Lynnette Hopkins 0117 3424940 Group 08454 226110 (Mon – Fri 8 – 4) Bristol & Avon Chinese Women’s Group (sitting service) Hammer Out – Brain tumour support group Main Office 0117 9351462 Anne Coles 0845 4501039

Bristol & Beyond Lung Support Group Jewish Community’s Cancer Support Or- Michelle Samson – 0117 3423489 ganisation Lois Phillips - 0117 3424050 Helpline: 0808 808 4567

Bristol Sitting Service – for South Asian Lymphoedema Support Group carers of elderly people Lynn 0117 9601537 Dhek Bhal 0117 9556971 Lymphoma Association – helps people with Cancer Information & Support Centre lymphatic cancer (Hodgkins or non-Hodgkins) Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre – 0808 808 5555 See centre pages of this issue! Local contact: Mary Walters 01275 875551 Sue Stengel 0117 342 3369 Penny Brohn Cancer Care Changing Faces – support for disfigurement (used to be Bristol Cancer Help Centre) to face, hands or body 0845 123 2310 0845 4500 275 www.pennybrohncancercare.org (payment on a sliding scale) Cheltenham Cancer Information Centre Pat Barlow 08454 224414 Myeloma UK (Mon – Fri 10 – 5) 0800 980 3332 Sylvia 01275 833106

Nicola Corry Support Foundation (for Testicular Support Group young families who have a mother or father Sue Brand 0117 342 3472 suffering from cancer) 0845 2573754 The Harbour – counselling for people affected by life-threatening illness Off the Record - counselling & informa- 0117 9259348 tion for young people 11 – 25 0808 808 9120 WHAT (Women’s Hope After Treatment) Support group for women who have been Positive Action on Cancer – free counsel- diagnosed and/or treated for cancer of the ling service for 18+ Frome, Bath, Warmin- cervix ster Jane Alexander 0117 342 5177 01373 455255 Wessex Cancer Trust Drop-in Centre Princess Royal Trust Carers Centre Jane Scarth House 0117 965 2200 01794 830374

Prospect Support Group – Prostate Can- Weston Breast Cancer Support cer Talkline 01934 647119 01373 813060 (Mon-Fri 8.30 – 4.30)

Rainbow Centre – children affected with Young Women 4 Young Women cancer & life-threatening illness 0117 9186501 0117 9853343 www.yw4yw.com

Rarer Cancers Forum WEBSITES 01227 738279 Beating Bowel Cancer www.rarercancers.org.uk www.bowelcancer.org

Sarcoma Support Group Breast Cancer Care Christine Millman 0117 342 4849 www.breastcancercare.org.uk www.bristolsarcomasupport.co.uk Cancer Research UK Somerset Cancer Care www.cancerhelp.org.uk Taunton - 0800 7314608, 01823 433510 Minehead – 01643 851430 Dipex (personal experiences) www.dipex.org Somerset Prostate Support Group Asso- ciation Macmillan Cancer Support Peter Loader 01460 62935 www.macmillan.org.uk www.somersetprostatecancer.org.uk Marie Curie Cancer Care St Michael’s Laryngectomee Club www.mariecurie.org.uk Mary Donovan 0117 9071519

MORE NEWS FROM THE FRIENDS A GREAT EXPERIENCE As part of my wish list, I wanted to do a wing walk. What a great time I had! I had already started to get sponsorship from friends and colleagues to do this and collected donations for the Oncology Hospital. Unbeknown to me, my friends and colleagues raised the money for me to do it, which meant I could give all the £450 raised to the Oncology hospital.

It was an amazing experience and I would recommend it to anyone to try. I would like to thank the team at the Oncology Hospital who are supporting me through my illness, and as you are reading this, I am looking at my wish list for the next great experience to try. Wish me luck.

Tony Gould

TAP DON’T FAUCET

Carrington Dance Studio first started putting on shows at The Redgrave Theatre 10 years ago. The last show was their sixth one to date and each time the cast has chosen a charity to donate all the proceeds to— this time The Friends of BHOC were the lucky recipients of £1,200 which they presented at the Church House in Long Ashton at the end of November. It takes the group 2 years to put together a show and in July they performed ‘Tap, don’t Faucet’ for one night only to a full house. .

They are lucky to count on the support of their friends and families. They had a cast of around 50 and also some invited guests. The dancers show great commitment and dedication and their crazy sense of humour makes rehearsals such fun—they are already planning their show for 2011! Many thanks to all of you for such a fantastic donation.