From cancer diagnosis to a shoulder to lean on: One volunteer shares her story
Sharon Dreise was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016 at the age of 58, when she finally got a mammogram following years of putting off breast screens.
Having been successfully treated, Sharon now volunteers with the Cancer Council’s Cancer Connect program - an anonymous, confidential telephone peer support service for people diagnosed with localised cancer and those experiencing survivorship issues.
“When I first heard of Cancer Connect, I thought it sounded like a fabulous service, now it is one of the most rewarding things I do with Cancer Council,” Sharon says.
“It is a great way for people to share their own personal experiences with someone who understands. It gives people the freedom to react how they want to react with no judgement.”
With her own experiences with cancer, Sharon speaks to people from when they are first diagnosed to their last days of treatment and helps them learn what to expect.
“When you are told you have cancer, your whole world changes, so to be able to provide comfort and understanding to people is so rewarding,” she says.
“When I first speak to someone at the beginning of their cancer experience, they are so worried and concerned. There is a big difference to our last call when they seem so happy and thankful, it gives you the warm and fuzzies.”
Diagnosis of cancer can be a lonely experience, but Sharon says that volunteering with Cancer Council in programs like Cancer Connect can help provide support for those who need it.
“If I can help them, even just to listen to them, which is often the case, they often say they feel so much better,” she says.
If you or anyone you know is affected by cancer and in need of support, call Cancer Council’s Information and Support Service on 13 11 20.
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