claire, United Kingdom

The theme for World Cancer Day 2025, “United by Unique” a people-centred approach to cancer care, emphasising the individuality of each patient's journey.

I LOVE THIS! 

So many times I was told what I wouldn’t be able to do: 

You won’t be able to dance and work during treatment. I did for 2 weeks! 

You won’t get back to work until the New Year. I went back on a phased return in Oct! 

You won’t teach and dance until the New Year. I started the end of October! 

You won’t feel well for a year. The person who said this I swapped out of my team! 

The team then got on board with me and my counsellor describes it as my unique approach to cancer. They worry I do too much but accept I will make good decisions.

The guidelines for head and neck patients are weighted towards older people. I’m relatively young, fit and very enthusiastic!

If I’d done it their way I would have been a shell of myself now. Instead I’m living a relatively normal life with a few adjustments! 

I need goals and cheerleaders! Tell me go on and have a go! If you tell people to accept the new normal that’s what they will do. Challenge it, push it, see what happens! 

This is what I need and not a blanket approach for everyone. The counsellor should be involved in guidance of best approach for mental wellbeing to complete the medical circle.