Just hearing the ‘C word’ can be frightening. When someone is first diagnosed with cancer, it can be very overwhelming and one of the hardest things can be telling other people and sharing their fears.

That’s why this year Cancer Talk Week, which runs from 21st to 27th January, is encouraging people affected by cancer to get talking about it - and all of the associated worries - with partners, family, friends and professionals. As they say, a problem shared is a problem halved.

Many people find it hard to talk to their loved-ones about how cancer makes them feel, or to talk about it at all. But getting the right support from family and friends can really help - especially when you’re facing the toughest fight of your life.

And it’s not just patients who need support; partners, children, colleagues and carers may also find it hard to talk about the impact cancer is having on their lives.

Susan Morris, General Manager for Macmillan Cancer Support in Wales said: “Many people affected by cancer often struggle to admit they feel scared and alone. Similarly they can feel they shouldn’t care that their appearance might have been affected by their cancer treatment, even when it’s affecting them psychologically. Others don’t want to admit they’re struggling to pay the bills as a result of their illness forcing them to give up work.

“Relatives of people with cancer also often feel they must be strong for their loved one and so don’t want to access the support available. All of this means that many people often struggle to cope with cancer on their own, ignoring the practical and emotional help that is available.

“That’s why Macmillan Cancer Support is using Cancer Talk Week, which runs from January 21st to 27th, to encourage everyone to be more open about cancer. We want people affected by cancer to realise that it is normal to need support, and that Macmillan is here to help them.

“We offer face to face support via our nurses, information projects and support groups, as well as online and telephone support for those who prefer to access help that way. Asking for help when you are affected by cancer isn’t an admission of weakness. It can take a huge amount of strength for anyone, to admit they need help. That’s why Macmillan will be there for anyone who needs us.”

Macmillan Cancer Support can help you find the words you need. Call our support line| for a chat with one of our experts on 0808 808 00 00, talk to others going through the same in our online community |, or access information on talking about cancer http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/Livingwithandaftercancer/R... |

Local information centres

Our centres offer free, confidential information and support to everyone affected by cancer. Find your nearest information centre http://www.macmillan.org.uk/HowWeCanHelp/LocalInformationCentres/Macmill... |