FCN volunteer Tracey Docherty has shared her story of supporting someone with cancer
A volunteer with the Farming Community Network (FCN) has shared the challenges of caring for her husband through cancer in a to mark Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.
Developed by FCN as part of the Rural Communities Cancer Project - a UK-wide partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support - the piece forms part of the #NipItInTheBud campaign which aims to raise awareness among farming and rural communities of the signs and symptoms of cancer while shining a light on the vital role carers play supporting loved ones who receive a cancer diagnosis.
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In the film, Northern Ireland-based Tracey Doherty, recalls the 鈥榙ifficult journey' of being both a wife and a carer and details how she encouraged her husband to visit his GP after noticing symptoms, and how, through her persistence, he was diagnosed with bowel cancer at an early stage.
Ms Doherty said: "There are times when as a wife, as a loved one, you feel very alone. You feel as no one hears you and you don't really have a voice. No one really thinks that the loved one is suffering too.
'A shoulder to cry on'
"It is important to talk to people about how you feel. Friends and family are good for this. Let them be a shoulder for you to cry on."
Ms Docherty also paid tribute to the cancer support charity and added: "For me, when I was sometimes at my lowest points, I would pick up the phone and contact Macmillan."
Over the past two decades, Mr Docherty has faced three separate bowel cancer diagnoses, with Tracey supporting him throughout each stage of his treatment.
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Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, yet when diagnosed early, outcomes are significantly improved. If detected at stage one, the five-year survival rate is around 90%.
However, when diagnosed at stage four, this falls dramatically to just 10%, underlining the importance of recognising symptoms early and seeking medical advice without delay.
Rural barriers
A report by Carers NI found carers living in rural communities can face additional challenges to those who live in urban areas, including limited access to local social care services, difficulties accessing healthcare professionals and increased travelling distance and time. These barriers can leave carers feeling isolated at a time when support is most needed.
Caitriona Crawford, national manager for the Farming Community Network in Northern Ireland, said: "This Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, we are highlighting the powerful and often unseen experiences of those caring for loved ones impacted by cancer, alongside the importance of early diagnosis and its life-saving impact.
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"Cancer can be an incredibly difficult time, not only for the patient but for their loved ones who quickly become carers and find themselves navigating unfamiliar services, new medications, side effects, and the emotional toll of seeing someone they love become unwell or frightened.
"That is why Tracey's story is so important. It highlights the need for carers to seek support early, whether through friends and family, Macmillan Cancer Support services, or other local charities, before things become overwhelming. It is vital to #NipItInTheBud and look after your own wellbeing so you can continue to care for your loved one."
- The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. Call free on 0808 808 00 00 to speak to an information and support adviser or cancer information nurse specialist. Available seven days a week, 8am to 8pm.
