Dundee cancer support service helps 1000th patient

A support service for people fighting cancer in Dundee has helped it's 1000th patient.

Macmillian has offered counselling and advice alongside the city's health and social care partnership.

It's helped people like 71-year-old Bill McGregor who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in January.

“The support I have received from Macmillan has been out of this world. When you’re diagnosed with cancer, it’s life changing," he said.

"Your head can go to some very dark places. I had to drop out of so many things I loved doing, like my work as a lollipop man which I loved.

“I went from being really down and not well to feeling so much better. Macmillan linked me up with a psychologist because I really struggle with my thoughts sometimes, especially at night.

"Staff also referred me to Maggie’s which was a very positive part of my week before it had to close due to Covid.

"From day one, Macmillan have been there for me. ‘I’m only a phone call away, day or night’ – that’s what Macmillan always say to me. That’s what you need.”

The Dundee Macmillan Improving the Cancer Journey service is a joint venture between Macmillan Cancer Support and Dundee Health and Social Care Partnership.

Macmillan's Head of Services in Scotland, Janice Preston, said: “Cancer has a huge impact on every aspect of people's lives, and right now it’s tougher than ever with so much uncertainty.

“We often hear from patients that they don't know where to turn for help, which is why Macmillan invests services like these to make sure everyone in Dundee with cancer has someone to call on for help, no matter what they need.

“We are delighted to see the impact it is having so far and hope more people locally will get in touch with the team to get the much-needed support they deserve.”

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