COMING TO CHARIS WAS THE BEST DECISION FOR OUR FAMILY

Charis Cancer Care centre user Angela McCabe discusses her journey:

“I have a rare form of cancer which is called neuroendocrine cancer (NEC). My symptoms began in February 2017 and were minimal. Following multiple visits to my GP a scan finally revealed abnormalities in one ovary. Surgery occurred in June and that summer a diagnosis and a CT scan showed spreading to the lymph nodes which in my case meant the cancer was inoperable. I started chemotherapy in September 2017 in Belfast City Hospital. This involved five intensive rounds of treatment. In between cycles, there is a time when you feel well enough to do something. For me, it was a trip to Charis Cancer Care. From the scenic drive, to my quality time at the centre, I can only describe the experience as something my husband and I really looked forward to. The Charis team are supportive and friendly. As for the setting, it’s idyllic and the staff always greet you with a smile. Everyone remembers your name and the services are really beneficial. I availed of counselling, reflexology and massage.”

Angela’s husband Frank adds:

“As a family, we feel truly blessed to have found Charis. Recommended by Macmillan Cancer Support, this is a complete haven of calm. When I first arrived here, I did not feel I was deserving of the treatments. However, my attitude has changed. I need to be fit and healthy to care for my wife and our children. We have a son Michael aged four and a daughter Emma aged seven. One of the best pieces of advice we received at Charis was to take time out and enjoy a holiday to Spain and importantly not mention the C word in advance of the chemotherapy. My advice to anyone who is on a similar life journey is to be the best that you can be for your family. Charis holds a special place for me. On my first visit, sitting outside I took a photo which captured the essence of this wonderful place. It’s now my Facebook profile photo.”