Maggie's Forth Valley urges cancer patients to seek its support

Maggie’s Forth Valley knows that, with tightened restrictions in place, the practical, emotional and social support it offers is more important than ever before.

Based in the grounds of NHS Forth Valley Hospital in Larbert, the centre is ready to welcome anyone with a cancer diagnosis, or their family and friends, in a way which adheres to government guidelines.

Support by professional staff is available face-to-face or by phone, email or online to help people with stress, fear and anxiety as well as money worries and questions about treatment.

Visitors will be asked to call ahead for an appointment with the charity which is adhering to all social distancing, hygiene and safety measures.

Those visiting the hospital anyway are also welcome to pop in.

Maggie’s Forth Valley centre head Yvonne McIntosh said: “We know people with cancer need Maggie’s now more than ever.

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“Cancer is possibly the hardest experience of a person’s life, yet coronavirus and restrictions have made living with cancer even more difficult.

“We hear about heightened fear, stress, anxiety and even trauma, as well as loneliness and a range of other mental health issues, but the good news is we are here to help.

“We can help with money worries, questions about treatment and support with stress, anxiety and more, but even if all you want is a chat then please do get in touch.

“We can organise an appointment with our psychologists very quickly if needs be too, just give us a ring.”

Maggie’s has been supporting people with cancer throughout the coronavirus crisis over the phone, email and online. The service helped people 60,000 times during full lockdown.

Maggie’s Forth Valley relies almost entirely on voluntary donations to be able to offer this high-quality, professional support.

The charity’s third annual Elf Family Fun Run is taking place on Sunday, December 6, in which participants can run, skip or cartwheel a route of their choice over a distance of 3km, 5km or 10km to raise money for Maggie’s Forth Valley.

Registration for the event is free and participants are asked to raise a minimum of £50.

Click here to register.

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