A Warminster support group offering friendship, understanding and vital peer support to men affected by prostate cancer has marked its first anniversary.
The group was set up last year by Kerry Evans and his wife Rachel as a way for men affected by or concerned about prostate cancer to support each other.
Kerry said, “We are a very friendly group – we don’t always talk about cancer, sometimes we talk about cars or holidays, but everyone knows that it’s OK to share their experiences as we are all on the same journey. It was particularly important for me, given my experience, to help other men understand about symptoms and treatment.”
One of the group’s members, Terry, said, “When I was first diagnosed, I felt completely isolated. Being part of the group has allowed me to talk with others about their experience, and it gives me great comfort to know that I am not alone, even though everyone’s experience is unique. “
Nathan, another member, was diagnosed after a routine visit to the doctor. The shock of hearing he had cancer is something he said he will never forget. He added, “I found it really hard to speak to my family, so I started coming to the group. I’m not really a ‘group’ sort of person but I found it really supportive.”
In the UK, prostate cancer is the most common cancer amongst men. On average, more than 56,000 men get diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, according to provisional figures. Around 510,000 men are living with or after prostate cancer.
The prostate cancer support group, which marked its first anniversary on 28th July, is managed by Open Door Warminster and runs on the second and fourth Monday of each month at the Athenaeum Centre. Doors open at 7pm until 8.30pm.
The group say, “There is no need to book, just come when you feel like it. You will find a welcoming and supportive bunch of men – and their partners – with lived experience of this cancer.”
Pictured: Group members celebrating one year of support with tea and cake
