NEW SUPPORT GROUP LAUNCHED FOR CANCER PATIENTS AND SURVIVORS
Cancer patients in Nandi are getting a supporting hand with the launch of Nandi Cancer Survivors Support Group at an event presided over by H. E the Deputy Governor Dr Yulita Cheruiyot.
The Cancer Survivors Support Group was formed by a group of 120 cancer survivors in the county with the support from the County Department of Health through the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital Oncology Unit.
The support group will serve as a welcoming space for cancer patients and survivors in the county, enabling them to engage in a close-knit community, where individuals share their personal experiences.
According to the group, cancer patients and survivors often face cognitive and emotional decline. They experience lack of attention, slow processing speed, memory dysfunctions, loneliness, anxiety and distress among other things. These deficits have a substantial impact on their well-being and quality of life.
The support group will be a platform that will provide patients and survivors with the opportunity to get moral support from people who are actually going through the same situation, or people who have great knowledge and experience in providing emotional and psychological support.
This group aims to instil persistence and hope in breast cancer patients, while providing them with all types of assistance needed. Group members will be able to set and edit goals as a means of coping with their difficulties.
The aim of the group is to educate its patients. The support group will correct misconceptions and myths about cancer and cancer-related treatments that could cause confusion. It acts as a hub for fact-checking, demystifying incorrect messages, and explaining the truth.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor Dr Yulita Cheruiyot said “As a county government, we are committed to enhancing access to cancer screenings and treatments for our residents. While we strive to bring these services closer, we also encourage our residents to utilize the oncology center at Kapsabet County Referral Hospital for comprehensive care and specialized treatment options.”
“Together, we celebrate life, inspire hope, and reaffirm that no one has to face cancer alone,” she added.
Stressing on the importance of the Cancer Support Group, the CEC Member for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech said, “Cancer diagnosis and treatment is an overwhelming process for the patients and their loved ones. The treatment of cancer is a journey right from the diagnosis to treatment and even after survival. Hence, this cancer support group is extremely helpful for patients to get motivated and inspired every step of the way. With this support group, we aim to combat cancer jointly by encouraging the patient and their families, and friends to be courageous and positive during the treatment process. At Kapsabet Oncology, we are committed to offering best clinical expertise, and service excellence for our patients in the County.”
Present at the event were the head Kapsabet Oncology Unit Patrick Kenei, Cancer Survivors and patients, among other senior department of health officials.