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My experience at the wellbeing space
Kevin
The Wellbeing Space at The Christie Private Care, part of HCA Healthcare UK, brings together a community of patients who can talk openly about their experiences and feelings, whilst providing practical, expert led support for coping with life during and after cancer treatment.
Kevin was treated for prostate cancer at The Christie Private Care and is part of The Wellbeing Space community. We spoke to Kevin about his experience of The Wellbeing Space and the support it provided.
How did you first hear about The Wellbeing Space, and what made you decide to come along?
"I came to the end of my radiotherapy treatment, and Rachel, one of The Wellbeing Space founders - who's also a radiotherapist, made me aware of The Wellbeing Space. It sounded like a great opportunity. You reach the end of treatment thinking, 'What's going to happen next?' Then suddenly this opportunity to attend a well-structured course with fantastic healthcare professionals came along. I thought, 'I'd be stupid if I didn't take this opportunity’."
Can you share a memorable moment or experience from The Wellbeing Space?
"Our course took place during COVID, so we had our sessions on Teams. I remember one session where we were doing exercise or Pilates, and when you looked at the screen, all you could see was this selection of heads and limbs popping up everywhere. It was absolutely chaos - quite memorable and funny and brought us closer together!"
How has being part of The Wellbeing Space made a difference during or after your treatment?
"The Wellbeing Space gave me things I didn't know I needed to consider - everything from sleep and diet, to exercise, wellness, and sexual health. At the end of treatment, your brain's scrambled and you don't know where to go next. They provided ideas for mental recovery that helped me be the best version of myself during the ‘coping-afterward’ phase."
What does being part of this community mean to you?
"It's incredibly useful because this is one of the few spaces where you don't have to edit yourself. People generally don't want to talk about cancer - it's not everyone's favourite subject. But this group gives you the opportunity to be with people who have similar experiences, it helps if you can talk about it. You don't have to edit - you can talk freely and openly about anything. You can discuss your cancer experience without having to dress it up in beautiful language."
Learn more about cancer treatment and care at The Christie Private Care
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.