No one is immune to the pain of losing a loved one. The grief process is never linear, even if you are a trained professional with experience of supporting others who have been bereaved.

Last year, CancerCare therapist Heidi Santamera-Black lost her mother, Marie. Marie was a pillar in Heidi and her son Adam's life. Heidi shares their experience of coping with grief and how CancerCare supported them through difficult times.

“When my precious Mum died last year, the decision to donate to CancerCare in her memory was an easy one. This was threefold. Firstly, Mum would have been over the moon giving to the charity who had supported her 20 years ago through her breast cancer diagnosis and recovery.

“Secondly, Adam and I cared for Mum during her illness last year and were both offered a course of aromatherapy at CancerCare's Kendal Centre. The sessions provided a relaxing and healing space where our mental and physical health was prioritised. As full-time carers, our own wellbeing can often take a back seat. Taking time to tend to our own self-care was essential to avoid overwhelm and burnout, ensuring that we could continue to provide the best possible care for Mum.

“Thirdly, and on a more personal note, Mum was my rock throughout five intensive years of counselling studies. She was thrilled when I graduated and went on to secure a counsellor role at CancerCare in 2021.

“Having been on both sides of the fence as a counsellor and client, I have a unique insight into the vital services CancerCare has to offer. I realise how every donation, big or small, can make a huge difference, allowing the charity to continue carrying out their invaluable work helping clients and their families when they need it most. The effect this support can have on both a physical and emotional level is immeasurable. CancerCare offers a much-needed chink of light during some of the most difficult and darkest times.

“Life without Mum has left an unfillable void and we continue to navigate a new and very different life. Family was everything to Mum; she was the glue that held us all together, in the same way that we felt held and cared for at CancerCare, for which my son and I are truly grateful.”