Sarah's Hope Story
Sarah was diagnosed with breast cancer, underwent surgery, followed by a 5 day course of intense radiotherapy, along with a 5 year course of hormone therapy. She has kindly written and shared her story with us after completing the Macmillan Cancer Support Hope Programme.
“I found having cancer, and the changes I had to make in my life because of having cancer, really difficult to deal with, both physically and mentally. I gave up my job as a teacher as there was no way I would manage to go back. My mental health was poor and life felt very difficult. Every day was a struggle from beginning to end.”
“Being part of the HOPE Programme has been invaluable. It was like being nurtured and looked after, and the community aspect helped me realise that there were others finding life difficult just like me. For the first time, I started to feel hopeful about the future.”
“I had the information and means to deal with the initial feelings and emotions (especially on body image) that I had had, and strategies to improve my mental health. I also learned about self-compassion and how to be kind to myself.
The most valuable tool for me was setting myself a goal each week. It really helped me to move on with things I found difficult or scary. I am now on my recovery journey, building up my new life. I am looking to the future. I will be eternally grateful for the support of the HOPE programme.”