The Acorn Cancer Support Group

I was diagnosed with rectal cancer in January 2010, the surgery in April 2010 was successful but left me with peripheral damage which limited my mobility and left me feeling isolated. I was introduced to the St Ives Acorn Cancer Support Group by a Macmillan nurse (Mandy). I didn't attend at first as I was sceptical about such a group being able to help me. Eventually I was so desperate I decided to try. What I found was a lively friendly group of cancer sufferers and survivors who understood and shared my problems. The support team, nurses, therapists and refreshment providers are friendly and helpful. I came away greatly cheered by my experience and now look forward to our meetings and events. Loss of mobility limits my lifestyle, the Acorn Support Group provide a lifeline to the outside world. The meetings and events have become a highlight of my month. I cannot praise them highly enough.

Upon reaching retirement I was taken ill with what turned out to be prostate cancer, living alone, support from family and friends is so valuable but sometimes they can be too close to the problem. The 'Acorn' group have been invaluable in the support with therapies, a chat and an opportunity to meet others in a similar situation. The professionals involved can put life into perspective and provide support when your emotions get the better of you during setbacks, which inevitably occur.

I have attended the Huntingdon Branch of the St Ives Acorn Group now for the last 3 years. I had cancer of the uterus, and following my hyterectomy in Addenbrookes Hospital I felt alone, a little confused, very scared, and isolated. I knew only one or two people with or recovering from Cancer. And more people who had died, and I thought I would be next. I discovered the group through Bedford Hospital group whilst visiting a friend there Id seen a poster and went in and asked if there was anything in Huntingdon. I soon found many friends, a wealth of information, alternative therapies on offer, courses to help deal with life after Cancer, and other people who were sharing the same experiences as me. I cannot praise the group enough for the support that is there for each one of us.