Lincolnshire support group aids lung cancer patients' recovery

A 35-year-old woman named Rachel Bell, who was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2023, credits a support group for aiding her recovery. She mentioned that the group, called Breath of Hope, helped her during a difficult time by allowing her to connect with others who understood her experience. Breath of Hope was created by the United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (ULTH) in 2024. It is open to anyone affected by lung cancer, including family and friends. Barbara Bambro, the Lung Cancer Care Coordinator, noted that the group has been very successful in supporting its members. Rachel Bell attends the meetings with her mother. She expressed that sharing her experiences and knowledge felt rewarding. A fellow member, John, shared that he felt isolated after his cancer diagnosis in 2020, but the group helped him meet others facing similar challenges. His wife, Sandra, mentioned that families also benefit from sharing coping strategies. Sarah Civello, a Macmillan lung cancer clinical nurse specialist, highlighted that guest speakers provide valuable information on various topics, including treatment side effects and healthy living. The support group meets every three months on Wednesdays at Jubilee Hall in Heighington, Lincolnshire.