Reacting to crisis with new coronavirus information hub

I find myself writing this column in a very different place to where we were only a month ago. As people across Rotherham follow the government’s advice to stay home, protect our NHS and save lives during the ongoing coronavirus (covid-19) crisis, Macmillan have quickly responded by developing a reliable coronavirus information hub for people affected by cancer.

Since the outbreak of the virus, we’ve seen a big increase in the number of people contacting the Macmillan Support Line. Over a quarter of people who contacted Macmillan had concerns or questions related to coronavirus.  

We’re all concerned about the impact of coronavirus on ourselves and our families, it’s hard to imagine how it must feel to have a diagnosis of cancer to deal with too. People living with cancer, especially those receiving active cancer treatment, may be in isolation and feeling anxious about how coronavirus will not only affect their health but also their cancer treatment and after care.

I want to encourage anyone who is affected by cancer and concerned about how coronavirus to visit Macmillan’s coronavirus information hub on the Macmillan website.  

The information hub provides clear information, support and advice about coronavirus for people living with cancer, their family and their carers.

https://www.macmillan.org.uk/coronavirus

During this moment of national and international crisis I’m reminded of why I’m so proud to work for Macmillan, despite the incredibly difficult and uncertain situation we’ve found a way to adapt quickly and find ways to be there for the people who depend on our support, now more than ever. I hope this provides some comfort during these uncertain and scary times we live in.

I want to personally thank everyone who has ever fundraised for Macmillan, from a bucket collection to a coffee morning, your donations allow us to react quickly to changing situations and provide the right support for people affected by cancer.

Although many of our fundraising activities have been paused, postponed or shelved to protect the spread of the virus some of our local supporters have taken to online fundraising.

Keeley Brookes from Ravenfield has been planning an event for Macmillan, for people to come together and wear their wedding dresses! The event was due to take place in May but Keeley is postponing this until later in the year.

Keeley commented: “We know how important it is to stay at home, save lives and protect the NHS. Local people need Macmillan now more than ever, we didn’t want to cancel the event so we’re keeping our fingers crossed we can still go ahead later this year”.

If you have an event planned and would like to chat about how we can change this to a virtual challenge or would like to start a new challenge from home, please don’t hesitate to get in touch so we can share ideas. My number is 07710 307050 or email [email protected]

Please do continue to stay safe everyone.

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Comprehensive information and support, including Macmillan’s latest guidance and advice on the impact of coronavirus on cancer care, is available on www.macmillan.org.uk. The charity’s online community continues to provide invaluable emotional and peer support. The Macmillan Support Line is open Monday-Sunday between 9am-5pm on 0808 808 00 00.