Emotional support
Nothing can prepare you for hearing you have cancer. Yet that's exactly what nearly 740 people are told every single day. And it's not just devastating for the people who have it – cancer turns their family's lives upside down as well.
We understand just how important it is to have someone objective, yet understanding, to talk to when you're affected by cancer – an expert, who'll really listen and who knows exactly what help is available.
Macmillan health and social care professionals
Our Macmillan nurses and other professionals offer emotional support to people with cancer and their families. They can also refer people to Macmillan clinical psychologists and Macmillan counsellors who help them cope with the impact of their illness.
'When Sue had to go back for her second round of chemotherapy Mary [our Macmillan nurse] was there as a friend – it was like having an arm around the shoulder for both of us. She was always honest and compassionate, even when things were really tough.'
- Mike McKenna, London
Macmillan CancerLine
Our CancerLine provides free information and emotional support for people with cancer, their families, friends and carers. We’ll listen to your concerns and put you in touch with the right support for you, whether it's a Macmillan service, another organisation offering information or guidance, or a local self help and support group. Over 33,000 people contacted the CancerLine in 2005.
'When I was diagnosed with bowel cancer, I was absolutely terrified. My head was full of questions and I needed answers quickly.
'I had no idea where to turn for help until a friend suggested I call the Macmillan CancerLine. I spoke to a woman who knew exactly what I was going through. I've discovered that a lot of the fear I felt when I was first diagnosed was just fear of unknown.'
- John Holmes
Email the CancerLine at cancerline@macmillan.org.uk
Self help and support groups
We can direct you to around 750 local self help and support groups that also offer emotional support to people affected by cancer, their families and carers. To strengthen this independent network of support, we offer information, support, training and small grants to new and existing groups.