18/09/2025
I can’t tell you how important these meet up’s are. For some time now I’ve been working with the incredible and inspiring who founded
T H R I V E F O U N D A T I O N
(formally )
(more on the name change at a later date!).
Not only have I received the very best care and support with via the charities funding of mental health support for parents of children who have had cancer, but my connection with Lucy developed into a strong and grounded friendship.
This connection inspired us to create these meet up events, so we call all get together, talk about a subject that others don’t get or find uncomfortable and stick our fingers up and say F**K YOU CHILDHOOD CANCER together.
There’s no going back to life before you heard those devastating words.
There’s no getting back to normal.
This changes a person. A parent.
You’re not alone.
For me, in the aftermath I have had ptsd, flashbacks, anxiety, panic attacks, I haven’t driven on a “big” road for 18 months, nor have I been able to go on the underground, I have developed a fear of heights, car accidents, crowded spaces, I’m hypervigilant and see risk everywhere. I go on high alert whenever there’s a sniffle or high temperature in the house. I get scanxiety, and obsess over test results. I research everything. Smells, sounds, photos, tv storylines, people’s conversations, posters, someone wearing a charity t shirt etc etc can trigger an overwhelming emotional response.
But I also have a lot of joy in my life and these issues are improving over time with patience and gentle understanding and encouragement. I have the right network of support and people around me.
If you or you know someone who wants to thrive again after their child has been through a childhood cancer diagnosis please get in touch. We encourage you to come along to our next support session on Tuesday 7th October.
Don’t just survive - Thrive!
🎗
