Elizabeth Fitton was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2021, four months after the death of her husband, Jack.

As part of her treatment plan, Elizabeth was given information about the variety of support on offer, which included CancerCare. She also had friends who had benefitted from our services for people coping with a cancer diagnosis or bereavement.

Elizabeth said: “I felt overwhelmed by the thought of facing cancer without my husband at my side. I had the support of my family, but they were still dealing with their own grief.”

Elizabeth got in touch and opted for counselling as the best way forward to help her come to terms with the changes in her life. Two weeks later she arrived at our Morecambe Centre for her first session with counsellor Kathryn Fitch. Elizabeth was initially apprehensive, but her fears were quickly allayed.

Elizabeth said: “I approached this first appointment with hesitation as I had never been in this situation before, but Kathryn put me at my ease immediately and reassured me that I would be able to express my needs and wishes and I would not be required to talk about anything that made me uncomfortable.

“We had two meetings before my surgery which helped me prepare mentally and emotionally. Kathryn took the trouble to contact me after my operation to ask how it had gone, which I very much appreciated. I realised that her support was helping me so we resumed our meetings and again she was a great support when the time came for my radiotherapy.”

Kathryn also scheduled a session around the first anniversary of Elizabeth’s husband’s death which helped her cope with her sense of loss, as well as her treatment.

“Kathryn accompanied me through my cancer journey and helped me to cope with my grief. I am already anticipating my annual mammogram in December, but I know that CancerCare will be there if I need them in the future,” said Elizabeth.

“I have recommended CancerCare to others and would encourage anyone with a cancer diagnosis to see what they have to offer. An enquiry doesn’t have to mean a commitment if you feel that it is not for you,” she added.

Elizabeth’s counselling sessions are now complete, but she continues to access our services through aromatherapist Susannah Cogger.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness and Elizabeth also had this message: “I would encourage all women to take advantage of the Mammogram service, including those over 70 who may not be routinely called for screening. An early diagnosis can help with the provision of the most appropriate treatment plan."