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, Elisa, a client of Wessex Cancer Support, shares their story and experience.
I was emotional.
I couldn’t process the information. As soon as I heard ‘it’s stage 3 breast cancer’, my mind was all over the place, as you may expect. I panicked; you hear those words and you just think ‘that’s it’.
It was a surreal moment. It was like I was walking in and out of that situation, but my body hadn’t moved. I had been diagnosed with triple-positive breast cancer, where all my hormones were impacted.
I hadn’t heard of this type of breast cancer before and my body didn’t feel like it was mine. I didn’t know what questions to ask.
You automatically start thinking about what you’re going to say and how you’re going to tell friends and family.
There wasn’t just a single moment or challenge, it was the feeling that the finish line kept moving. From being told I was ‘cancer free’ after my operation, to the ever-increasing number of chemotherapy sessions, sitting in the chair from 9am to 7pm, having an allergic reaction and seeing my husband and daughter’s reaction, and then having to deal with infections. It felt like every time I took a step forward, I was pushed five steps back.
As a woman, it’s hard enough to be told that you have breast cancer, but as you start to lose your hair through the treatments, it really impacts your confidence. It’s your identity and your dignity.
But I did find that using a cold cap helped me to keep my hair – something I would recommend to anyone going through these treatments. I quickly realised that pushing myself to ask questions and talking to people, I was able to learn more about the information and support that is out there for people like me.
I was really grateful for the support and advice I received from my cancer support worker. Being Portuguese, I wasn’t always familiar with the English medical terms and it was amazing that someone was there to guide me throughout my treatments and who encouraged me to explore other avenues of support.
It was through my cancer support worker that I learned about Wessex Cancer Support. I never had been interested in support groups or anything along those lines.
I was nervous at first, walking up to the centre not knowing what to expect. Yet as soon as I walked in I felt so welcomed. I had gone for a coffee but ended getting involved in so many other activities including the Walking Groups, Reiki and took the offer of counselling, which really help me to process where I had been and where I am now.
Now, I appreciate every day and make sure I prioritise time with my family and what I want to do.
That’s why I wanted to share my story. I know many people are scared to talk about their diagnosis or join groups. They lock themselves away. That’s how I was.
Having reflected on this time, the only advice I would give is: take that first step in seeking help. Do it for you.
It is easier said then done, but just taking that step and pushing myself out of my comfort zone allowed me to make incredible friends who truly understand, because they’ve been though it too. I wasn’t on my own; and through this experience I’ve been able to find the support I needed as well as get involved in all sorts of activities.
I’m still standing.
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 cancer support centre today, or drop in to speak to our friendly team.
