"North Devon Cancer Care Counselling Service"

In November 2019 I was told the shocking news that my prostate cancer had spread into my pelvic area. At the same time my daughter who lives nearly 300 miles away was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. I started Chemo in Jan 2020 it finished at the end of March 2020. At the same time I was experiencing chronic pain relating to my back and Sciatica. In April and May 2020 I had Cauda Equina Syndrome and two spinal operations. My daughter had cancerous cells removed and radio therapy, finishing her treatment in time for her to lockdown with us in Devon. This was a wonderful time.

Having had productive counselling before I decided to apply for some more. I started again in the summer of 2020. I explained all my issues to the counsellor that I was low on confidence, concerned with recovery and perhaps not that easy to live with. I found the counsellor to be sensitive, thoughtful and very skilful in manoeuvring our discussions relating to my issues. I opened up freely about my feelings and thoughts, this made me very emotional and teary, I did feel liberated.

In summary my sessions were extremely important to myself and family members. It relieved a lot of pressure from my wife, she was no longer the sounding board. They enabled me to think /positively about my issues/thoughts. I have been able to move on with my life and think differently.

I have also discovered Mindfulness.

I always recommend counselling to friends and acquaintances, I have had so many numerous benefits, It is good in confidence to talk,