WITH October designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Grove House is continuing to help local women come to terms with the shock of receiving such a diagnosis. In the UK today, one in nine women will develop breast cancer during their lives. But the good

WITH October designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Grove House is continuing to help local women come to terms with the shock of receiving such a diagnosis.

In the UK today, one in nine women will develop breast cancer during their lives. But the good news is that survival rates are on the increase due to better awareness, early screening and advances in research and medical care.

The Cancer the Next Step course is one of a range of free support services for local people diagnosed with cancer or other life-threatening illness.

Open to newly-diagnosed cancer patients - with any type of cancer - aged between 18 and 60, the course runs over eight Mondays and is held three times a year.

During the morning there are various information sessions with an opportunity for questions and plenty of time for discussion. Afternoons are spent relaxing and participants can enjoy a range of complementary therapies such as reiki, reflexology and massage as well as art, craft and music activities.

Elizabeth was just 46 with three school-aged children, a career she loved and a busy social life, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago. Cancer was the last thing on her mind when she visited her doctor with a small painless swelling on her breast.

She said: "I thought I was going to die. Normal life went on the hold, the shock was overwhelming. A breast care nurse told me about the Cancer the Next Step programme at Grove House. Attending the course, I realised I did not have to cope alone; I could talk openly to others in a similar situation to myself."

Elizabeth found the course really helped her to accept the diagnosis and move on with her life. This year she is planning to take part in the Herts 10K Challenge to raise money for Grove House.

More information about Cancer the Next Step can be obtained from Ros Thomas on 01727 731026 or visit www.grove-house.org.uk