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, Geoffrey, a client of Wessex Cancer Support, shares his story and experience.
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I remember when I was first diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer in 2017. It wasn’t just the cancer; it was the impact on my whole life, even my ability to speak and sing.
Singing has always been an outlet for me, there’s something about being part of a choir, but when I couldn’t, along with trying to deal with the symptoms I had, this put me on a different path. One that I never thought I would walk down.
One of the treatments for Thyroid cancer is surgical. Mine was done in two halves, one in the November and the other in the December.
Going through this experience meant that I had lost the power in my voice. Walking into a shop and having to whisper, only for someone to whisper back was frustrating – I’m not whispering for fun, I just didn’t have a voice!
At the time, my Clinical Nurse Specialist could see that I was struggling and recommended I speak to Wessex. The first time I walked in, I just burst into tears and someone there gave me a literal shoulder to cry on. I felt like I could let it all out, I could finally just be. Be myself with the big ‘C’.
Getting to that point wasn’t easy, I was nervous.
I remember being unsure as to whether I should go, and when I got the courage to go to the centre, I paused. I didn’t know if I should walk in, especially being a bloke. It’s not what we do, right?
I almost turned around and walked away, but something told me to press the bell and walk through the door, and I’m pleased I did. I was greeted with smiles that made the weight a little bit lighter.
After my initial crying session, I was able to speak to the team. They advised me on the support they could offer and what would work best for me. Reiki and counselling really helped but just being able to drop into the cancer support centre at any time made all the difference. Finally, I had a safe place to go.
I’m on my third cancer diagnosis now: after my thyroid, I had prostate and now bowel cancer. It’s been a challenging time, but the Wessex Cancer Support team have been brilliant in supporting me throughout. Even helping me through my divorce and walking alongside me as I rebuilt my life – it felt like a family, being there for you through thick and thin.
My experiences with cancer have been vast and I wanted to give back and help those who were also following the same or similar footsteps.
I got involved with becoming an ambassador for Wessex, going to community groups and events, talking about what we have on offer and encouraging more men to come forward – we do have a habit of hiding things and can be fairly reticent at times!
Cancer has become part of my life, but I don’t let it define me. I’m using this experience to give back to those who have supported me and to ensure that we think differently about those affected by cancer. It’s not just about the medical treatment, it’s what happens after the medical treatment.
Through sharing my experiences, I’ve been able to get involved in the NHS Public and Patient Voice and the Wessex Cancer Alliance, helping to shape the delivery of services for cancer patients. Helping to ensure everyone gets the experience they need and deserve. Making it better for the next person!
As a Support Volunteer, I’ve seen from both sides what it’s like to receive a cancer diagnosis and not knowing where to go, and to take that first step in coming to a cancer support centre.
I feel privileged being able to give back to the community and share the support I have received. I’m proud to be part of the Wessex Cancer Support community.
My advice to anyone, especially men, is to reach out for support. There’s no shame in asking for help. Just do it.
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.
