ISLANDERS are being reminded of the mental and physical support available to those affected by cancer, as an international awareness campaign has shone a light on the illness.
Last Sunday marked World Cancer Day, which aims to raise awareness and encourage access to screening, early detection, treatment and quality care.
A day later, Buckingham Palace announced King Charles’s cancer diagnosis, revealing that he had begun a schedule of regular treatments.
The Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, as well as several politicians and charities have expressed their support for the King, who has been praised for raising awareness of the illness by sharing his diagnosis.
And in a frank, emotional and uplifting Weekend Essay, Simon Boas, of Jersey Overseas Aid, provides an update on his personal battle with the disease.
Pam Aubert, the chief executive of Jersey Cancer Relief, said: “One in two people will hear the words ‘you have cancer’ in their lifetime. It can affect every aspect of their lives and the lives of those around them.
“What we and other organisations like us want to do is make sure that those affected know where to access the support that is out there.”
Mr Boas has previously spoken of the “amazing” support, both mentally and physically, which he has received from Macmillan and other organisations.
A spokesperson for Macmillan Cancer Support Jersey said: “We provide emotional, practical and wellbeing support to any-one in Jersey affected by cancer. Our team of trained Macmillan professionals and volunteers help ensure you have the support you need.”
Towards the end of last year, Jersey’s first cancer strategy was published following 18 months of work between the government and Macmillan Cancer Support Jersey.
The document aims to highlight the ways in which health providers can aid disease prevention, increase detection through the further development of existing screening programmes and better support patients and their families.
