Hi
Are there any ladies out there that have received counselling for living with secondaries at St Barts? If yes, how did you access this service?
Been told there are very limited resources in my area (Redbridge) & therefore a long waiting list.
I need some professional help to deal with my situation & save my marriage!!!
Cheers
Ingrid
Hello Mildred1602
I’m sorry to hear that you are going through a difficult time at the moment. I don’t have details of the support at St Barts but our helpline may be able to help.
If you would like to talk things through with a member of the helpline staff who are there to offer emotional support as well as practical information the free phone number is 0808 800 600 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9.00 to 5.00 and Saturday 10.00 to 2.00.
best wishes
June, moderator
You should also check if any of your local cancer charities offer counselling - maybe a breast care nurse could give you a list and you could contact them directly.
Hi Ingrid
My bcn referred me for counselling which I have at Whipps. Not sure whether Barts do it but they have a Macmillan centre there who may be able to advise. I’ve got secondaries and have found the counselling very valuable. My bcn also referred my husband for counselling - maybe worth thinking about.
BCC are also starting a living with secondary breast cancer forum, the first overview meeting takes place in mid October. I can’t remember the details, but there’s a post about it in the living with SBC section - I’ll bump it up for you.
Moondog xx
Hello Mildred1602
Breast Cancer Care is launching a new Living with Secondary Breast Cancer Service in central London from October. There is an Overview of Secondary Breast Cancer day on the Thursday 18 October which is a full day and as well as a chance to meet others with secondary breast cancer, it’s a chance to hear from expert speakers on the Medical Management of Secondary Breast Cancer, coping with Cancer Related Fatigue and tips for relaxation. All refreshments and lunch are provided and it’s completely free to attend.We will then be running regular monthly meet ups (the fourth Thursday of every month 11am) where, as well as a chance to meet up and chat over a cuppa, we’ll be inviting speakers along to longer sessions on alternate months to talk about subjects including Benefits, Pain Management and ‘Ask the Nurse’ sessions.
If you like more information or are interested in attending you can email us on secondaryservices@breastcancercare.org.uk or phone 0845 077 1893
Many thanks
Carol (UK-Wide Services Team)