EVERYONE who goes through a cancer diagnosis and treatment will experience it differently. Local people who have had cancer treatment in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, or supported someone who has, are being invited to join a special online focus group in May.
In the East of England Cancer Alliances we work to transform local cancer services. We would like to know what worked well and what might have made things better for patients and their families or supporters.
The virtual focus group will be held on two alternative dates:
10 May 3-4.30pm
11 May 7-8.30pm
We would be delighted to welcome as many people as possible to share their thoughts and experiences.
These will be one-off informal meetings led by people who have themselves experienced cancer. We want to hear your first-hand accounts. All views and comments shared within these sessions will be used anonymously only to help design and improve NHS services for the future.
Holly Masters, from Cambridgeshire, co-chairs the East of England Cancer Alliances Patient Partnership Group said: "As a former cancer patient myself, I know how important it is that we share our stories to help improve cancer care for others.
"Our personal experiences are vital in shaping services for the future, from diagnosis through treatment and aftercare, as well as help for families and supporters.
"I very much hope that people of all ages will take this opportunity to join a one-off focus group with others who know what it is like to be affected by cancer. Our voices matter and can make a difference."
You can choose either of the dates above to suit you.
If you are interested in sharing your views, but are unable to attend of ether of those dates, you are welcome to contribute later via an online survey or a pre-arranged one-to-one telephone survey - more information to follow on this.
People attending the focus groups will be sked to consider their diagnosis, care and treatment and to share their views in a number of ways, including using personal statements such as:
“I would have liked ... when I was first diagnosed.”
“I would have preferred ... during my treatment.”
“I wanted to know ... after surgery.”
“I appreciated ... throughout my care.”
Anyone interested in taking part or for more information, please email england.eoecancerallianceteam@nhs.net, or call 0113 539 9425 and leave contact details.