THE shock of a cancer diagnosis can be so great that questions go unasked and patients feel rushed. Often they feel so frightened and alone that they can t absorb what they have been told. That is where Grove House Canceri comes in – the dedicated informa

THE shock of a cancer diagnosis can be so great that questions go unasked and patients feel rushed.

Often they feel so frightened and alone that they can't absorb what they have been told.

That is where Grove House Canceri comes in - the dedicated information service which offers free, confidential information and support not only to patients but to families, friends and carers as well.

The Canceri office, situated on the ground floor at Grove House, is open from 10am until 4pm Monday to Friday and people are welcome to phone or drop in with appointments not necessary.

Professional staff and trained volunteers are always on hand to offer information and support at any stage of diagnosis, through treatment and beyond.

Mary Wrenn, who runs the Canceri service, said: "We aim to provide a warm friendly environment giving people the time and space to relax and share their concerns.

"We provide people with the opportunity to ask all their questions and obtain relevant and up-to-date information. We are fortunate to have a team of trained volunteers who can help people to find the information they need or point them in the right direction."

She added: "We have a wide range of booklets and leaflets for people to take away with them."

Canceri volunteer Laura Corcoran said: "We have to be prepared for all kinds of queries, people ask a wide range of questions. One minute we may be talking about Grove House services, the next about practical issues of living with cancer. If we don't know the answer we will always try to find out.

"This is a fascinating place to work and I have met some truly wonderful people. It is very rewarding to be able to help people through what can sometimes be a difficult journey."

To contact the Canceri office at Grove House call 01727 843401 or email canceri@grove-house.org.uk