Support people affected by cancer in Gisborne, Hawkes Bay, Manawatū, Whanganui, and Taranaki
My name is Clive Harris, I live alone in Gisborne and last year I was diagnosed with lung cancer. I went to the doctors with a cough to get checked out thinking that it was probably a virus. An x-ray and a CT scan soon after revealed that there was a tumour in my lung. I was referred to the Cancer Society by the cancer clinic at Gisborne Hospital, initially I thought it was just to get help with transport to and from treatment, but it became so much more than that.
From my very first visit I was shown such genuine care and kindness by those at the Cancer Society. Caro Deutsch a member of the supportive care team was an incredible support, she arranged for transport to and from treatment and explained what the Cancer Society could provide as I was preparing to undergo chemotherapy. She made home visits checking on my food supplies, financial situation and my ability to look after myself as well as making follow up phone calls. The Cancer Society’s support was so comforting and reassuring, it felt like I had a family looking after me and that I was not alone.
In January I was sent to Auckland for another scan and in March the tumour was operated on and removed, chemotherapy was the next step of the process. Few things in life have scared me, but going to chemo was one of the most frightening things I’ve ever experienced. If I had gone by myself, I would have really struggled. Having someone there to talk to on the way who has things in common with me took away so much of the stress and anxiety of the situation, and made it feel almost like I was attending a regular doctor’s appointment rather than cancer treatment! I would have felt out of my depth without the support of the Cancer Society.
It has been such a privilege to meet the whole team and their help smoothed the journey beyond all my hopes. I’d encourage anyone experiencing cancer to reach out to the Cancer Society, the support they provide is lifechanging.
Thank you so very much for donating to the Cancer Society, it is because of people like you that they are able to help people such as myself who are experiencing cancer.
The Cancer Society relies on donations to fund the free services that they provide. Setting up a regular donation is the best way to make sure someone like me can get this support.
