Contact magazine: Wellbeing

Clinical Psychologist at Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children (RBHSC) talks to us about her work.

Kate Beddow uses types of complementary therapies such as Reiki and journalling to help the wellbeing of families affected by childhood cancer. Here, she tells us more.

Caitlin Shorricks’ daughter Theía was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in May 2020. She explains how a special vest she created to protect Theia is now helping other families caring for children with cancer.

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust supports young people aged 8-24 in rebuilding their confidence after cancer through sailing and UK-wide adventure activities. Scott Wilson, Communications Officer at the Trust, explains the positive impact these trips have on wellbeing.

Complementary therapies can play a part in supporting children and teenagers through treatment by offering relaxation and calmness. They are typically used alongside a patient’s standard medical treatment and though they do not treat or cure cancer, they can offer relief from symptoms and help promote feelings or emotional or physical wellbeing.

In an effort to improve the physical and mental health of young people diagnosed with or treated for a brain tumour, the ACT Now study (funded by The Brain Tumour Charity), is investigating whether a psychological therapy called ‘acceptance and commitment therapy’ (ACT) is both useful and possible.

Lauren Murrell was diagnosed with leukaemia aged 23. She tells us how her experiences inspired her into business with her sister to help others get back to themselves through wellness products.

Matteus Irsø-Coombes, Community Fundraising Coordinator at CCLG, was diagnosed with leukaemia aged 24. He tells us how his outlook on life has been altered by his cancer journey and how talking about his experiences has helped him mentally.

When Beth Kellie’s son Kai was diagnosed with leukaemia, she struggled to maintain her mental and physical health while adjusting to life during his treatment. She writes on how she learnt to look after her own wellbeing and the importance of doing so.

Dr Bob Philips,Senior Academic Consultant at The University of York, Consultant Paediatric Oncologist at Leeds Children’s Hospital and CCLG member

Dr Amandeep Samrai, Consultant Clinical Psychologist in Paediatric Oncology at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, writes on the impact that a childhood cancer diagnosis can have on emotional health and wellbeing. She offers tips on self-care and coping strategies, and explains where to access support.

As part of Cat Macleod’s role as a Young Lives vs Cancer social worker, she helps families plan and access trips and holidays while their child is on treatment. She explains the positive impact these breaks can have, and things to consider beforehand.