Living With Cancer
This is such an enormous subject that we have selected a few of the most frequently asked questions. If there is a subject that you feel you would like us to cover then please contact us.
Coping With Symptoms & Side Effects
Macmillan Cancer Support
Tel : 0808 800 1234
Web Info Source : www.cancerbackup.org.uk includes a comprehensive section on living with symptoms or side effects of various treatments. In addition they offer a range of information leaflets which can be downloaded or obtained by phoning their helpline.
CancerHelp UK
Web Info Source : www.cancerhelp.org.uk also has some very useful information especially on issues such as coping with fatigue and pain. It also provides a reading list and details of relevant organisations.
Some complementary therapies are very helpful with the side effects of treatment. Most notable are acupuncture, homeopathy and hypnotherapy, for further information go to our Helping Yourself section.
Travelling with Cancer
We recommend three websites that should answer all your queries - the links below will take you directly to the relevant page.
CancerHelp UK website includes helpful information on taking medicines abroad, taking care when you are away, travel insurance and general travel tips.
The Macmillan Cancer Support travel section also includes information on vaccinations and immunisation, how to avoid health problems and specific issues such as travelling with a stoma.
The Department of Health website tells you how to get treatment abroad and includes information on the European Health Insurance Card (EUHI).
Travel Insurance - a helpful tip
We cannot recommend individual companies but we do suggest that you shop around as every company will have its own criteria for deciding who they will cover and under what circumstances. We also suggest that you check if your policy includes an "on going medical warranty" - this allows the insurer to change the terms and conditions of the policy if your health status changes after you have taken out, and paid for your policy.
Working with Cancer
The Macmillan Cancer Support website has a comprehensive guide to all work related issues
Web Info Source : www.cancerbackup.org.uk. In addition to information on employment rights and financial issues, there is advice on coping with the effects of treatment and tips on how to talk about cancer with colleagues and employers. There is also a section for people who are self employed.
Financial Issues
For queries about financial issues and the benefits you may be entitled to claim we suggest you start at the Citizens Advice Bureau website. In addition to clear and comprehensive information you can find details of your local CAB office that will be able to give you personalised advice.
Macmillan Cancer Support operates a Benefits Helpline on 0808 801 0304. This is staffed by experienced benefits advisers who can talk you through the system and help you complete the relevant forms.
Help with the costs of Cancer
Having cancer can be expensive in many ways, such as the cost of prescriptions, travel to hospital, a special diet, child care or travel to hospital. Macmillan Cancer Support has a very comprehensive section on Financial help and Cancer on their website that explains what help you can apply for. Click here for details.
Page Updated : 13-Jul-2009