Coping with cancer in York

A new specialist Macmillan counsellor is helping people at York Hospital cope with the psychological impact of cancer.

Abigail Manzira, pictured, is a Specialist Macmillan Cancer Counsellor who helps people who have finished cancer treatment and are struggling to cope. 

Abigail said: “The people I see have finished their cancer treatment, which might have included chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, or all three. They might be surrounded by friends and family celebrating the end of treatment and being clear of cancer, but they won’t necessarily feel like celebrating. I see a lot of people who go through the process of regular appointments at hospital and maintain a ‘fighting spirit’, putting their emotions on hold. It’s when treatment stops that people might struggle coming to terms with what has happened. Cancer is probably the biggest psychological fight they have ever faced.”

The new counsellor role has been funded by Macmillan Cancer Support and provided in partnership with York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Abigail is based within the Cancer Psychology Team in Psychological Medicine Services and sees patients on a one-to-one basis in hospital. Earlier this year, research by Macmillan revealed almost one in four (24%) of people living with cancer in North Yorkshire - an estimated 5,700 - are suffering from loneliness as a result of their cancer.

Abigail said: “Patients can feel incredibly isolated after they finish treatment as they’re no longer having regular hospital appointments. Many people can struggle that they’re no longer able to do what they used to do - that could be work, for example. I’m there to provide talking therapy. It’s not about trying to mask what has happened; it’s about giving people the confidence to cope and self-manage and be able to move forward with their lives.”

Patients, who are referred via their GP or nurse, typically see Abigail for fortnightly one hour sessions for up to 12 weeks, depending on how they feel. As part of Abigail’s role, she is also putting together a research document, looking further into the emotional issues people in North Yorkshire face having finished cancer treatment.

To help more people living with cancer, Macmillan relies on public donations. To find out ways you can give, call Harry Baines, Macmillan Fundraising Manager for North Yorkshire on 07473 541337 or email hbaines@macmillan.org.uk