In our participant’s words…

My brother was diagnosed with stage four cancer following a routine scan so it was a shock to everyone. I have been his carer for a long time due to his chronic mental illness but this new diagnosis obviously added a degree of difficulty which I was uncertain I could manage well and was causing significant anxiety. I received an email from my union the PSA offering a free seminar and a six week course specifically for those caring for someone with cancer – how amazing!

The program involved weekly phone calls with a dedicated and qualified coach exploring various common topics and issues and offering techniques and solutions tailored to your particular circumstances. Information was emailed in advance of the call. The weekly modules were very well chosen and included: being a caregiver; communication; managing daily activities; navigating the healthcare system and physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.

My coach Emma was truly fantastic. I found her easy to talk to, a good listener and great at interpreting my sometimes rambling remarks and relating them to something I said in an earlier conversation then making an accurate interpretation of the circumstance or difficulty and then recommending a course of action to alleviate or even circumvent the situation.

I highly recommend this course to anyone in this situation. I learned to use breathing to calm myself, practical tips to communicate better with my brother, management of information, medication, finances and household duties as well as factual information regarding impact on employment, leave entitlements and flexible work arrangements.

Importantly it also focused on monitoring yourself for wellbeing in all facets. Emma gave me referrals for additional resources which would help me, but I still follow the general guidelines I learned regarding the necessity for good sleep, exercise and regular relaxation to be able to reliably, effectively and lovingly support my brother for the time he has left.