Write a comment
Macmillan are encouraging people who have experienced a cancer diagnosis to join their Cancer Experience Panel to help drive change in the Northern Ireland cancer care system.
Bernie McNamee who lives in Armagh joined the panel and found the sense of camaraderie amongst the members really lifted her spirits at a difficult time Bernie explains "My cancer diagnosis in November 2020 was earth-shattering on a personal level, especially as I was trying to come to terms with my brother's diagnosis in August 2020."
After being diagnosed with breast cancer and lymph nodes removal, Bernie from Newtownstewart joined Macmillan’s Move More programme where she heard about the Macmillan Cancer Experience Panel (CEP). Explaining how being part of these groups has helped her through her cancer experience Bernie said "I joined Move More on Thursday mornings in Craigavon and this enabled me to build on my physical strength and the sense of camaraderie within the group bolstered my spirits. I fully engaged in all the activities, even having the courage the participate in dunking in Lough Neagh!
"Through participating in Move More I became aware of the Cancer Experience Panel and decided to take the plunge to apply. Following a successful interview, I joined the CEP members and once again the sense of camaraderie bolstered my spirits. Whilst all of the members have varying diagnoses and experiences, we all shared a common goal, to help others. I attended the meeting as an individual but left as part of an active community."
Bernie continued "CEP membership has challenged me physically and emotionally and it has given me a platform to engage with a wide spectrum of people engaged in the Cancer journey. In March 2022 I attended the Cancer Strategy launch in Stormont, at which I gave my personal insight into cancer. I joined CEP colleagues to meet Members of the Legislative Assembly prior to the May 2022 local elections, reminding the Health Minister and Health Committee, of the central importance of cancer in society.
"Through CEP, I'm involved in the Mental Health Strategy for Macmillan and working within this is also having positive effects on my own mental health. On a personal level, CEP has introduced me to some amazing people, whom after a relatively short time, I'm happy to consider great friends, who have given me the courage to keep challenging myself and never give up, no matter how steep the climb!"
If you would like to join the Macmillan Cancer Experience Panel click on www.smartsurvey.co.uk
