Head and neck cancer patient-led support group launched in Torbay
A patient led, Head and Neck Cancer Support Group has now successfully launched in Torbay.
Fahida Rehman-Manby, Cancer Nurse Specialist, said: “Many of our patients benefit from the 24-hour helpline run by the Swallows Head and Neck Cancer Support Group and we were keen to seize the opportunity to work with them to bring face-to-face, patient-led support here to Torbay. While our original plans were delayed by the pandemic, we are thrilled to finally be able to offer this additional support to our patients.”
Sam Gregory, Head and Neck Cancer Speech and Language Therapist, who worked closely with Rehman-Manby, added: “As a clinical team we try our best to support our patients through their treatment but there’s nothing better than meeting someone who’s lived it and can share their experience with you.
“Patient-led support groups are a safe space for people to share their coping strategies and techniques as well as sharing personal experiences and feelings. After the first meeting we received twelve phone calls from patients who attended saying how useful they had found it. We’re looking forward to seeing the group grow and develop.”
Liz Davenport, Chief Executive, attended the launch of the group last month and said: “I am delighted to welcome The Swallows Head and Neck Cancer Support Group to Torbay. Our focus is always on what matters to the people we care for and doing everything we can to support person-led care.”
The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at Kingskerswell Community Centre from 6.45pm. You can contact the group through their page on Facebook.
To find out more, you can watch the Torbay Patient and Caregiver Support Group Launch 2022 video below:
