Cancer stigma is a great problem in South Africa, it touches all groups, ages and genders and impacts cancer patients daily.
With our current survey we aim to gain more information and insight into the role of cancer stigma in our communities.
Often the journey through cancer can be lonely and confusing. You need clarity and peace of mind!
We help patients lighten the load during their cancer journey.
A helping hand...
Positive steps to take control of your situation, to help yourself heal.
We are dedicated to help you face the journey
to find a cancer buddy...
I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Breast Cancer in August 2007at the age of 45. I discovered my lump and went straight for a mammogram and sonar (my mammogram was due in October) and off to the surgeon who gave me the devastating news. I felt like I hit a brick wall, but decided to...
I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Breast Cancer in August 2007at the age of 45. I discovered my lump and went straight for a mammogram and sonar (my mammogram was due in October) and off to the surgeon who gave me the devastating news. I felt like I hit a brick wall, but decided to have a lumpectomy. I then had to have 6 months of chemo, the dreaded ‘red devil”. My family was excellent in giving me lots of love and support. I really battled to come to terms with the hair loss, but was prepared by having a wig ready for the dreaded day. I wore the wig for a few weeks but found it very hot and it gave me headaches, so I opted for scarves which were much more comfortable. I did have a few days of nausea and feeling like I had been drugged after each treatment. One definitely gets’ chemo brain’ – I would go into shops not knowing what I needed to buy,- not remembering things my family has just told me and just being very forgetful (I have been told this can last for 10 years). After chemo finished I then had to have 32 treatments of radiation. Radiation is a walk in the park after having chemo. I was much happier now as my hair was back, much curlier than before and just as thick.
During my radiation I got involved with PLWC and became a cancer buddy. I believe that I got cancer for a reason, being able to now talk to fellow patients and putting some of their fears and concerns at ease. I go to the Sandton Oncology Centre weekly and chat to patients while they are having treatment supporting them and telling them about PLWC.
I am also on the Moments in time web page. www.momentsintime.co.za and go to Peter Marneweck’s blog ” I am a cancer survivor’s spouse”
