Cancer support reaches uMhlanga

BATTLEING cancer is more than medical intervention, argued Sheila Moolman, co-ordinator of the Durban North Cancer Support Group (DNCSG). “Beating cancer has a lot to do with what is in your head. Your thoughts, outlook and belief play a huge part,” she said.

The DNCSG was initiated in the 1990s, and Moolman took over as the co-ordinator in 2002, after nursing her mother, who suffered from terminal cancer. “It was something natural. I wanted to help others who had been affected by the disease. The experience has been a journey of personal growth and development, and the support group has become very close to my heart,” she added.

According to Moolman there is a misconception that support groups are depressing and filled with doom and gloom. “This cannot be further from the truth. They are very positive and uplifting. They are all about information, support and encouragement,” she said.

The groups aim to not only provide support to those diagnosed with the disease, but also the family and friends of cancer patients. The weekly meetings enable everyone who is affected to mix and mingle with other people who are or have had similar experiences. “It is all about realising that you are not alone, and that there is hope,” said Moolman.

Paul Ferreira, an uMhlanga resident, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2013, insisted that it was not an easy decision to attend a support group. “It is about admitting and accepting that your life and circumstances have changed permanently. It is a bold decision, but worthwhile,” he said.

Knowledgeable speakers are also invited to attend the meetings to help educate people on the disease. Topics vary from dealing with the stress, psychological dynamics; the importance of nutrition and fitness, acceptance and treatment options. Cancer patients are also referred to CANSA representatives when they require additional assistance or support. 

Over the years Moolman has watched the support groups grow and flourish, but she soon realised that this meant that cancer was growing in the community, as the need for support groups grew. “It was to this end that we attempted to form more groups in the different areas of Durban, to increase their availability and to increase awareness of their benefits,” she said.

Recently, Moolman, with assistance from CANSA, set up a cancer support group in uMhlanga. The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, 17 September from 6pm to 7.30pm at St Michael’s Anglican Church.