Irene’s Story

I started accessing Cancer Support Scotland’s counselling service after my husband, James, passed away from cancer last year.

By the time my husband was diagnosed with mesothelioma, I had accepted it. I was thinking that it would have been nice to see him in a hospice rather than in a hospital but he never got there.

We had a visit from the hospice staff but they said he wasn’t ready to go into the hospice at that time.  They offered day care but there was difficulty getting up and down stairs after some time he never got admitted to the hospice.

I felt James’s treatment was badly managed and he wasn’t treated well. I needed to talk to someone but I didn’t want to burden my family and friends.

Cancer Support Scotland has been a lifeline for me. I found a leaflet and called the Glasgow centre, originally looking to find a support group, but Cancer Support Scotland offered one-to-one counselling. An appointment was arranged when the service started at Craigmillar Library.

Things are more sorted in my mind, I am looking forward. Christmas was difficult but I feel I have to get on with my life.

Cancer Support Scotland has been very helpful. I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to access Cancer Support Scotland’s counselling service. I’d advise anyone who has cancer or who has lost a loved one to access their service.

Cancer Support Scotland provides free emotional and practical support to anybody who has been affected by cancer. If you or a loved one would benefit from accessing our one-to-one counselling services, or would like more information about our Mindfulness courses, complementary therapies and stress management please click here to view our contact details.

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