CENTER PAGE SPREAD IN NORTHAMPTON CHRONICLE AND ECHO

HOW TO LIVE WITH TERMINAL CANCER  

When Marian Christine Cross was diagnosed with terminal cancer,  she was devastated, and wanted to know more on how to deal with the horrific news,  she looked round for information on all possible aspects of the subject.  Apart from medical information on the subject,  there was nothing practicle in print.   No one had  chronicled  the problems that were likely to arise.   To benefit her own mind,  and to allay the fears of  others in the ‘same boat;’  she decided to write a book,  on the problems and decisions that had to be made, as she experienced them.   So,  her book,  ‘Living With Terminal Cancer’ was written.   Her story is ongoing. 

An interesting article,  by Anna Bronson,  appeared the ‘Northampton Chronicle & Echo’ with pictures and the following appendix: 

‘A Glimpse of standing in someone else’s shoes.’ 

The ‘Cynthia Spenser Hospice’  is now an important sourse for Marian Christine,  as she continues to live out her days with terminal cancer.   When she came up with the idea of writing her book,  the hospice’s help was vital in getting it off the ground,  according to Marian.  

Voluntary Services Manager,  Lesley Bacon was  a driving force behind the project,  working with Tim Vernon,  who volunteered his time to edit the book and design the layout.   The Cynthia Spenser Hospice then put forward money to cover the books printing costs,  which will be recovered  through the publications sale.   Lesley said,  “The book will provide an important resourse, not only for cancer patients,  but also for those training or working within Oncology.” 

She said,  “as a resourse,  having read it myself,   I would say it is a brilliant read for any one working in palliative care.   We are trying to get it put on to the reading list at the university,  that would be brilliant.   You don’t often get a glimpse of standing in someone elses shoes like this,  and it is written so well.”

Attending day sessions at the hospise also helped Marian’s own strength of mind,  as well as helping her to realise  more about the practical issues faced by cancer patients on a daily basis.   For this reason the book includes many contacts,  through which the patients can seek advise about everything from financial benefits to mobility aids.   She said  the problem is that information is spread through so many agencies,  unless you understand the benefits system,  you don’t know what is available. 

Marian continues,  “Going to Cynthia Spenser and being in the same boat as others was the key to getting me straight.   I was seeing other people,  worse off,  and younger than me.   I was quite hesitant about going along.   I did not know if I would benefit from the course,  or if it would be too morbid,  but believe me,  it is not.   We have had some real giggles.

The book is now available

Cost £6.99  Useful for anyone working in Oncology,

Cancer patients,  or those on Long term illness.

All profits go to the Hospice

To Order Tel:

Lesley Bacon 01604 678078

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