Facing a cancer diagnosis is difficult. It stops us in our tracks, makes us re-evaluate our priorities, sometimes our whole life. It changes our daily routine, disrupts our plans and work commitments. It hits hard those who love us and significantly impacts their lives as well.
I have worked for many years at the Breast Clinic, Mater Dei Hospital and could see the effect of cancer diagnosis and treatment on a daily basis. Moreover, I have experienced this first hand when my own father was diagnosed with leukaemia. Our lives revolved around his hospital visits and admissions, cancer treatment and remission. When he took a turn for the worse, our lives stopped. My sister, mother and I took it in turns to be with him in hospital and tried to see to his every need.
Currently those being treated at our Oncology Centre are having it much tougher than we did years ago. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, relatives cannot accompany their loved ones for doctor’s appointments and cancer treatment in an attempt to protect the patients themselves and curb viral transmission in a group of individuals that is considered vulnerable.
This is taking its toll on families facing cancer. Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be taxing. Emotional, physical and social support are of utmost importance. Relatives, neighbours and friends usually rally around to help with housework, taking care of the kids, school work and grocery shopping. Currently, due to social distance measures, helping needs to be well planned out and carried out cautiously and safely.
The sense of isolation that this pandemic has brought about, especially to those most vulnerable amongst us is not easy to face. In fact, many are using technology in an attempt to keep connected. Talking with family members and friends through various internet applications can help keep relationships alive and serve as a window to the outside world.
Seeking professional help online is important and beneficial. Virtual group support sessions also help. For example, since March Europa Donna Malta has conducted monthly meet-up sessions for breast cancer survivors which seem to be very effective.
Facing cancer and its treatment is not easy. COVID-19 has made the situation harder. However with a bit of creativity, good will and hard work we can still support those amongst us that are facing this disease. Let’s do the best we can and give it our all.
Anna Catania (M.Cons. PG(Dip) Psychosexual and relationship therapy is a warranted counsellor specialised in the area if sex and relationships. She provides counselling to individuals and couples who are having difficulties with sexuality, relationships and intimacy.
Click here to check out Anna’s full bio as well as a list of all her Wham published articles
