‘We can offer emotional support along with a listening ear,’ says local Macmillan cancer manager Martha Magee

Martha Magee is the Macmillan Information and Support Manager, at Altnagelvin Hospital and the Western Health and Social Care Trust.

She said: “We offer emotional support along with a listening ear and can help signpost you to counselling, if required.

“We can help answer some of the questions you may have regarding your cancer treatment.”

Martha is part of a network of Macmillan support workers across the north who understand that for people who are newly diagnosed with cancer, particularly during the ongoing emergency, it can be a very difficult time for them and their families.

During the pandemic people are restricted and prevented from seeing friends and loved ones. This can make a difficult situation even more challenging.

The restrictions can equally present practical and logistical difficulties for cancer sufferers. This is where Macmillan comes in.

“We can offer support around practical things, such as benefits, financial advice or signpost you to local services, like transport, or help at home,” said Martha.

Amy Wilson is a colleague of Martha who is based in the Northern Trust.

She said: “Finding out that you or someone close to you has cancer can often be a very difficult and confusing time and the impact of COVID-19 has of course added to these anxieties.

“There will be a Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service in a hospital near you, and we support people through all stages of their cancer experience.

“When you’re waiting for your treatment to start it’s important that you look after yourself and we can help with this too.

“So, please do get in touch. We are here for you.”

Sharon Clarke, another member of the Macmillan team, said: “We take the time to understand you and all that matters to you so we can help you to get the information and support that you need.

“Our experienced staff are here to listen to your worries and concerns and offer free, confidential advice and support.”

You can contact the Western Macmillan Information and Support Service by telephoning 07342075636 or 02871 320105 Monday to Friday from 08.00am until 4.30pm – excluding bank holidays or by emailing: [email protected]