45 stories for 45 years. Throughout 2026, we’re sharing the stories of our clients, volunteers and staff who make the Wessex Cancer Support community what it is. Through our community’s lived experience of cancer, we can provide our clients with the tailored support they need.
For this edition, Liz, Centre Support Manager for the Isle of Wight and former client of Wessex Cancer Support, shares their story and experience.
Â
‘It’s cancer.’
In that moment, my life changed. The questions, the uncertainty, not what knowing what to say or where to turn.
I had a feeling for a while that something was wrong, but it still came as a shock. I had a few dark days and became quite protective with it all. Not just for myself, but also for my family, I didn’t want to be that burden. If I shut it out, then I had control of it.
But I could see the impact it was having on my family. When I first sought out support, it wasn’t for me, it was for my daughter. I was more concerned about ensuring she had what she needed.
“I remember when I first walked into the centre as a client and how welcoming it was. There was support for me and my daughter. I was finally able to open up; I didn’t have to hide. It’s not just the treatments, the team were willing to listen to me. It felt like a weight had been lifted and I didn’t have to keep saying ‘I’m fine’.”
There was something about the vibe and atmosphere, I could see the benefits that it was having not just on me, but those around me.
When I was having my treatments, the therapists would always talk to me. Now being a manager of the centre, I know this is part of the training all our team members have. Throughout their experience with us, clients are encouraged to explore their feelings – whether they want to laugh or cry.
At the time I was going through my treatments, I remember talking about wanting to go back to work, but was unsure of how or what I would do. One of the therapists encouraged me to volunteer as the Centre Manager at the time was looking for support.
While I was unsure at first, I knew I wanted to give back.
I started as a volunteer and eventually became a member of staff and then running the Isle of Wight Cancer Support Centre. If you had told me this is what I would be doing, I wouldn’t have believed you.
The most rewarding part is seeing the difference in people.
Often people are scared to come in or unsure as to what to expect and having been there myself, I know how they feel. But after their first visit you can see how much more relaxed they become. Our centres are not a place of ‘doom and gloom’, these are safe spaces, where we don’t just share tears, but also laughter and understanding.
People can be themselves without having to worry about being burden to friends and family. There’s no judgement.
“For me, it’s not just giving back, volunteering at Wessex Cancer Support, and now working for the charity has changed me. I’m more confident and don’t go in on myself as I used to. I’ve learnt how to encourage people to open up and through that see the difference I’m personally making. It’s an amazing feeling.”
We have volunteers who have supported us for over 10 years, and it’s incredible to watch our community have the positive impact it does.
Our community provides a safe, supportive space for people affected by cancer. Through our emotional and wellbeing services, we provide the support to our communities in Dorset, Hampshire and the isle of Wight.
We’ve been here for you since 1981.
You can call or email your local centre today, or drop in to speak to our friendly team.
