This request for feedback comes on the back of the recently formed Prostate Cancer Support Group, a group made possible through the collaboration between the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, Cancer Council NSW and the Forster Prostate Cancer Support Group.

“Support groups provide a safe place for people affected by cancer to come together to support each other, develop friendships, share ideas and thoughts, obtain information from health professionals and each other, and learn coping skills in a non-judgmental and caring environment.” Said Eliza Goding, community programs coordinator, Cancer Council NSW. 

“Men of the Manning Valley and their partners are already starting to benefit from the Manning Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group, formed in May this year. However, we know that there are many other people who could do with support as they navigate their way through diagnosis, treatment and remission and we want to know what types of support groups for which there is the greatest need.”

Eliza says, “There are many different types of support groups that exist throughout NSW but our aim is to improve not only local accessibility but the support options available to people affected by different types of cancers, by creating a specific local Manning Valley Group.”

“The five most common cancers on the lower Mid North Coast are Prostate, Melanoma, Breast, Lung and Colon.  Cancer Council wants to know whether the Manning Valley community feels strongly about developing a support group in any of these most common cancer areas. There may also be a completely different type of Cancer Support Group required, such as a general cancer support group or support group for carers of people with cancer.”

“Once we receive feedback from the community we can set about putting wheels in motion and facilitate the new group starting up.”

To provide your input into the Manning Valley Support Group feedback, please contact Eliza Goding at Cancer Council on 6659 8400 or email elizag@nswcc.org.au