Success of cancer support groups lies in patient participation

Today, as medical advancement is ensuring higher survival rates and better quality of life, support groups are building confidence as survivors are living proof of hope.

“I was diagnosed in 2009 with colon cancer. During the course of my treatment before chemotherapy, I was very jittery. There were all sorts of advice from well-wishers. Some even suggested that I should try medicines, instead of going in for chemotherapy,” said 64-year-old TV Gurunath.

“At that point, I did feel the need to speak to someone who had undergone colon cancer treatment, to help me come out of my dilemma,” Gurunath said. However, he said, “With a lack of support group, the doctors at St John’s Hospital talked to me and my family at length on the benefits of chemo. They also advised me that no matter what, once I start the treatment, I should complete all sessions of chemo.”

Speaking at a programme conducted by St John’s Medical College and Hospital, he said that a broad support group that combined all cancer types could also help.

Stigma surrounding cancers is still high, even among the educated. Knowledge about treatment, side effects too, is shrouded with myths that cause anxiety among patients and their families. Support groups for breast cancer patients have helped many women dispel myths, find a shoulder to cry on and get motivated.

However, support groups are voluntary groups involving survivors and the success or failure lies on patient participation. Maybe the reason why breast cancer support groups are more active in the city could be because women are coming together to share their stories. Anita Vijayarajan, 47, a breast cancer survivor said, “A group, Adhara, was formulated around the time I was diagnosed and it helped me tremendously.”

She said that these groups were vital as there were times when as a patient one wanted to hear what the others went through.  Often what these support groups do is not only get patients and survivors together, but also create a platform of comfort where patients can discuss their fears that they cannot with family.

“I could reach out to the group and share my anxiety as I couldn’t with my family,” said Vijayarajan.

She said while there was tremendous support from her family, she was the second person in her family to be diagnosed with breast cancer. Previously, her mother had undergone treatment for the same. “It is a taxing time for families too and often patients look towards support groups. This way, we relieve our fears without adding to more stress to our family,” she said.