Living with Cancer
Support, Information, and Care – You Are Not Alone
Being told you have cancer, or supporting someone who does, can feel overwhelming. It is completely normal to experience a wide range of emotions — fear, uncertainty, anger, sadness, or even numbness.
At Priory Medical Centre, we want you to know that you are not alone. We are here to support you, your family, and your loved ones every step of the way — not just medically, but emotionally and practically too.
Our support as your GP practice
If you are diagnosed with cancer, we aim to offer:
- A 3-month review after your diagnosis
- A 12-month review
These reviews are in addition to any other appointments you may have with us for your general health or ongoing care.
We understand that a cancer diagnosis can affect many areas of your life, not just your physical health. These reviews are a dedicated opportunity to check in with you and make sure you feel supported. They can cover anything that is important to you, including:
- Physical symptoms or side effects from treatment
- Pain, fatigue, appetite, or sleep changes
- Emotional wellbeing, including anxiety, low mood, or coping
- Support for your family, carers, or those close to you
- Work, finances, or practical concerns
- Lifestyle advice, recovery, and general wellbeing
- Future planning and ongoing care
Sometimes these reviews may take place as part of another appointment, particularly if you are already seeing us for another reason.
You are always welcome to request a cancer care review at any time, and we may also contact you to offer one if you feel it would be helpful.
If you would prefer not to have a review, that is absolutely your choice.
We offer these reviews to make sure you are receiving the best possible care and support during what can be a very difficult and uncertain time, and that you feel listened to and supported.
Understanding cancer
Cancer is a condition where cells in the body grow in an uncontrolled way. There are many different types of cancer, and each person’s experience is unique.
Treatment may include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
- Immunotherapy or targeted treatments
Many patients in our area receive specialist care through The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, which provides expert cancer treatment and support across Liverpool and the wider region.
Living with cancer – what can help
Living with cancer is about more than treatment. Many people find support in:
Emotional support
- Talking therapies or counselling
- Peer support groups
- Speaking openly with healthcare professionals or loved ones
Practical support
- Help with finances, benefits, and employment
- Support with daily routines and responsibilities
- Advice on returning to work or adjusting activities
Physical wellbeing
- Gentle movement and activity
- Managing fatigue and sleep
- Nutrition and hydration
- Symptom and pain management
Support for family, carers, and loved ones
Cancer affects the whole family. Support is available for those caring for or supporting someone with cancer.
You may benefit from:
- Emotional support and counselling
- Practical advice and guidance
- Carer support services
We can help direct you to the right support if needed.
Support for children and young people
Children with cancer
Children in Liverpool are often cared for at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, a specialist centre for children’s health.
Teenagers and young adults
Young people aged 13–24 can access dedicated support through Teenage Cancer Trust, including specialist units and youth-focused care.
When a parent has cancer
There are also services to support children and young people when a parent or loved one is unwell, helping them understand and cope.
Local cancer support (Liverpool & surrounding areas)
Macmillan and local cancer support
- Macmillan Cancer Support
📞 0808 808 00 00 (free helpline)
Macmillan provides:
- Emotional support
- Financial advice and benefits guidance
- Cancer information specialists
- Online and local support groups
Locally, Macmillan services are available through hospitals such as:
- The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre
- Royal Liverpool University Hospital
- Aintree University Hospital
Many sites have Macmillan Information and Support Centres, where you can drop in and speak to someone face-to-face.
Other local support
- The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – specialist cancer care and support services
- Liverpool Cancer Psychology Service – emotional and psychological support
- Local community and voluntary groups offering peer support and wellbeing services
Local hospice and specialist support (Liverpool)
Hospices offer support at any stage of illness — focusing on comfort, quality of life, and support for both patients and families.
Adult hospice care
Children’s hospice care
These services provide medical, emotional, and practical support for both patients and their families.
National support organisations
When to contact us
Please contact us if:
- you are struggling physically or emotionally
- you need help understanding your diagnosis or treatment
- you need support for yourself or a loved one
- you would like a cancer care review
A final message
A cancer diagnosis can change many aspects of life, but you do not have to face it alone.
We are here to support you with care, compassion, and understanding — for as long as you need us.
