World Cancer Day (4 February) is a leading international awareness day led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) which has grown into a positive movement for everyone, everywhere to unite under one voice to face one of our greatest challenges in history.
Lynn Mack, cancer haematology, breast and plastics service manager, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “World Cancer Day unites us all to raise awareness and take action. It’s also an opportunity to remind NHS Lanarkshire staff of the support available throughout Lanarkshire.
“I would urge anyone who is struggling due to being affected by cancer, to seek the free support provided by Macmillan and other local charities in the area.
“More people are surviving cancer than ever before, and it’s important to get any early signs or symptoms checked without delay. While it’s probably nothing to worry about, a quicker diagnosis can mean less worry.”
Gillian Harley, volunteering coordinator, Macmillan Services, said: “World Cancer Day is a great opportunity to raise awareness of all our support and initiatives available throughout Lanarkshire and the UK.
“Whether you have just learned that you have cancer, are in treatment, finishing treatment, or have a family member affected by cancer, we are here for you.
“Our services are all free and support is offered by highly trained and dedicated volunteers. We know that sometimes it can be hard to make that first step but there is so much we can help with on an emotional, financial or practical level.”
Macmillan in Lanarkshire
Cancer Information and Support Services
Whether you have just learned that you have cancer, are in treatment, finishing treatment, or have a family member affected by cancer, Macmillan is there for you. Request a pack of local cancer services that you, your friends and family might find useful at a time that is best for you. To request a physical or digital pack visit Cancer Information Packs – Culture NL
These support hubs are now open:
East Kilbride Library: Monday, 10am-2pm
Bellshill Cultural Centre: Tuesday, 10.30am-12.30pm
Fairhill Lifestyles, Hamilton: Wednesday, 1.30pm-3.30pm
Coatbridge Library: Thursday, 10am-noon
Active and creative community venues also have Macmillan information points where there is quality information. Macmillan Cancer Information & Support Services – Culture NL
Alternatively, telephone Macmillan directly on 01698 332607 for further information and support or email Macmillan@northlan.gov.uk
GET ACTIVE. FEEL GOOD – Move More
At Move More, we know that when living with and beyond cancer even a small amount of gentle exercise can help reduce your fatigue and leave you feeling better.
Being more physically active can help you cope with and recover from tiredness and fatigue. Exercise also helps to reduce stress and anxiety, looks after our bones and heart, reduces the risk of a blood clot and helps to keep you a healthy weight…. in general, it improves your wellbeing. That is why Macmillan Cancer Support has developed a range of activities in Lanarkshire.
Circuit Classes
Circuit classes are led by specially trained cancer rehabilitation and exercise instructors. They use a variety of simple cardiovascular and strength exercises which are adaptable to provide an individualised physical activity programme.
Time Capsule – Mondays, 4pm–5pm
Sir Matt Busby Sports Complex – Mondays, 1.50pm–2.50pm
Wishaw Sports Centre – Wednesdays, 2pm–3pm
Tryst Sports Centre – Wednesdays, 2.40pm–3.40pm
Airdrie Leisure Centre – Thursdays, 10am–11.30am
Macmillan Friendly Gardening
Like other forms of physical activity, gardening can have many benefits for your physical and mental health. Macmillan community gardening groups are a fun way of becoming more active. They provide a supportive, friendly environment with various gardening tasks available for novice or experienced gardeners. Activities include developing new gardening displays and maintaining existing ones. Raised beds are used for ease of access. Grow your own veg or bedding plants. Nothing too strenuous. Take it at your own pace.
Summerlee Museum, Coatbridge: Wednesdays, 10am–noon
If you are interested in joining the Macmillan Friendly Gardening team, telephone 01698 332607.
All the above activities are good ways of meeting kindred spirits, as well as helping you to become more active. Feel free to bring a friend or a family member along.
Volunteering Opportunities
With all this going on at the start of a New Year, Macmillan is rolling out new volunteering opportunities.
They would welcome people who can offer a few hours per week or per month, who are warm and reliable and have an interest in volunteering with people living with and beyond cancer.
Vacancies are available within the cancer information and support service drop-in hubs.
Also, they would love it if you are interested in leading or supporting the Move More classes. Full training will be given.
MacMillan wants to make sure that everyone affected by cancer has access to appropriate information and physical activity opportunities. They need your help to achieve this.
Please telephone directly on 01698 332607 for further information or email macmillan@northlan.gov.uk
Follow Macmillan on social media: Facebook and Twitter.
Get Checked Early
Cancer screening involves testing apparently healthy people for signs of the disease and remains one of the most effective ways to find cancer early. It could save your life.
Find out more at Get Checked Early
