Landmark for cancer service

For the last year, clinical psychologists and gym staff have delivered the Macmillan Cancer Support programme, which helps to aid cancer recovery.

Fordingbridge resident Sylvia Field, who started the programme in March, said: “It’s absolutely wonderful.

“I’ve been so helped by every part of it.

“It encouraged us all to look forward and be positive, and here we are enjoying life.

“It’s very important to anyone with cancer, before, during or after treatment.

“I would not hesitate to recommend this marvellous programme.

“Our group are now meeting up with each other every now and again, when we are able - health permitting.”

Diet, sleep problems, exercise and relaxation are covered during the eight-week programme plus any financial woes can be helped by the Macmillan benefits adviser.

The programme is open to all patients being treated at Salisbury District Hospital or who completed their treatment in the last 12 months.

Rowena Ingram from Salisbury was referred by her consultant.

She said: “For me it was building confidence and talking to other patients.

“You feel very vulnerable after a cancer diagnosis so it’s nice to know you’re not alone.

“I’ve carried on trying to get as much exercise as I can, being careful about eating the right things and even started a support for people with blood cancers like mine.”

Clinical psychologist Dr Kate Jenkins said: “A massive thank you to Macmillan, for funding the programme.

“We hope that in future services like this will be embedded in patient care and funded as part of their standard treatment.”

All patients reported a reduction in symptoms, with a 70 per cent drop in depression, 35 per cent decrease in anxiety plus a 54 per cent drop of feelings of cancer-related fatigue.

For details go to macmillan.org.uk.

Alternatively, call the fundraising manager Steve Goodrick on 07595 091812.