Dear Editor,
Healing Journey post colorectal cancer diagnosis:
In the spring of 2009, I was advised to go and see a specialist following a positive result on a routine test asked by our new family doctor as part of their protocol for accepting new patients. Although I had neither signs nor symptoms, I did heed the doctor’s request to take what for me was a new test that has been recommended for people over 50 almost worldwide since 2007.
Beyong the initial shock of being told that I had cancer, I started to focus on my chances of survival. Once the diagnosis confirmed by biopsy, then started the discovery of a world of Colonoscopy, MRI’s, CT scans, Pet scans, Ileostomy and the rest, all part of the choice of treatment recommended after dealing with three specialists. Past several operations, then what? Pretty soon you tap out all your immediate resources. Now starts the Healing Journey!
Having read about Dr. Alastair Cunningham’s work and the benefits of being part of a support group, I inquired about what was available locally. Dr. Cunningham is a biologist and psychologist as well as a specialist in cellular and molecular biology working at Princess Margaret hospital, and also a 27 year survivor of colorectal cancer. He started couses for cancer patients in 1982 at the Ontario Cancer Institute, Canada’s largest cancer treatment centre and the closest location that I found the courses taught was at Wellspring in Brampton. Since April 2008, the Centre has received over 22,500 visits from cancer patients and their families, volunteers and community groups. Wellspring Chinguacousy has 147 trained volunteers providing daily support and over 1,015 registered members who attend the 27 programmes that are offered free of charge. The combination of a welcoming environment filled with volunteers and professional staff has been part of my recovery for the last 4 years. (1-877-907-6480)
I recommend it greatly to anyone who asks me for help in dealing with their healing journey.
Sincerely,
Pierre Brianceau
Cancer survivor.
Pierre Brianceau