Support group for lung cancer patients

Dr Craig Martin, consultant oncologist at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, will explain the latest developments in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer to an audience of patients and their families on Saturday 6 May.

Anyone who is affected by lung cancer is welcome to attend the meeting in the Benjamin Gooch Hall, East Atrium from 10am – 12 noon.

The Norfolk and Norwich Lung Cancer Support Group meets four times a year to enable patients and their families to meet others in similar circumstances and to learn more about lung cancer. Health professionals are always on hand to offer information and reassurance and to answer questions about issues such as diet and breathlessness.

Mr Colin Howard, from Catton, who had part of his lung removed in August 2004, says: “Being part of the support group has really helped me because there is always someone there who can answer your questions. I am happy to share my own experience with other people who may be worried and apprehensive about having an operation.

“Certainly if I had my time over again I would not have started smoking. I was a smoker for more than 50 years and reckon I wasted £75,000 (in today's money) on cigarettes.”

Specialist nurse Chris Waller explained: “We welcome this opportunity for patients to talk about their concerns and to tell us about their experiences, good and bad. Their suggestions and comments help us to improve the care we provide for other cancer patients.”

Dates planned for the next meetings of the support group are 6 May, 12 August and 11 November 2006.