A support group for women with cancer has formed in Fort McMurray.
Sisters in Cancer was on Oct. 9, 2019, two days before founder Sundas Shamshad’s two year breast cancer diagnosis anniversary.
Shamshad said in a press release that going through cancer was one of the hardest things she ever did, and through the two years, the biggest thing on her mind was “something good should come out of all this.”
“This is my way of giving back, making sure no one feels alone fighting this battle. I hope this group will help women tell their story, give each other strength and encourage hope to fight on.”
Dozens of patients, survivors and women gathered to show their support.
Janice Petruk RN, Cancer Patient Navigator at the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre said Sisters in Cancer is one of the “highlights of her career.”
“We had a support group in the past. But, organizing this one was amazing. Everybody has their stories, experiences, and your job here is to listen to both, and be there for each other.”
Sheila Degiano is a breast cancer survivor and has been in Fort McMurray for over 31 years and is looking forward to being able to connect and get support from those who are going through similar struggles.
“This group is what’s needed. I want us to share struggles. For example, going somewhere – the fatigue is phenomenal even though I might look okay, and that’s overwhelming. I can share this with people who understand.”
Darlene Predham, has had cervical cancer, and has been living with a cancerous mass on her adrenaline gland since 2015. She is also looking forward to being in the group.
“This means a lot, because it’s like-minded people. Just hearing ‘yes I feel that way too,’ is good. Chemo treatments get to the mind, body, and soul really. People don’t understand that one day you want to be with them, and the next day your door is shut. Cancer is isolating. You can discuss openly here with people going through the same things.”
Sisters in Cancer will meet on the second Wednesday of every month at the Eagle Ridge YMCA at 6 p.m.
