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Scouting supports those living with cancer
03/02/2012
Saturday 4 February is World Cancer Day, a global event which aims to raise awareness and encourage people to unite in fighting against all forms of the disease.
Many scouts’ lives are affected by cancer, whether they are diagnosed themselves or know someone who is. For many this means providing care and support, and scout groups are a supportive family environment in which members feel loved and cared for.
A lifelong passion
For one volunteer, the inclusive nature of Scouting was a comfort when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Will [not his real name] has been a member since the age of eight, currently serving as a special needs adviser in his county and diversity ambassador. In 2010 he went for a health check, and one of the test results gave concern that he may have prostate cancer. This was confirmed later by a biopsy, and treatment began shortly after that.
‘I was lucky to have my condition identified so early on, so my treatment is more about “active surveillance” and the prognosis is good. Because my volunteer role is about promoting the opportunities for members with special needs, I actually found that my experience has driven me on to give more time to Scouting.’
Inclusive ethos
Will feels that Scouting is an extremely supportive environment for families who are dealing with the effects of cancer diagnosis and treatment. ‘For me, it was good to continue doing something that I love, and Scouting provided a familiar atmosphere. Our ethos of “doing your best” means that no-one should be left out of any activity. It’s about the people, not what you can or can’t do.’
World Cancer Day
There are many activities taking place around the world to mark World Cancer Day, and you can follow events on Twitter.
Will said: ‘I’ll be supporting the Prostate Cancer Charity on Saturday, and I’d like to encourage other people who are affected by cancer to speak openly about their experiences to help raise awareness.’ The Scout Association supports World Cancer Day and we would encourage members to sign the declaration on the website.
Further links
World Cancer Day
Comments
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By Wendy
on 03/02/2012 22:17 I'm a GSL and SL and was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer last year. Keeping the Group going and maintaining contact and activities (including summer camp) during chemotherapy and radiotherapy gave me a focus and distraction! Hopefully I was also able to help our young people see that cancer isn't all gloom, they have seen me with no hair and now seen it growing back.
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By Adrian
on 04/02/2012 09:55 Our small Explorer Unit has had three cancer survivors as members during our short existance. The determination and cheerfulness of these young people is both humbling and inspiring to the rest of us. They are amazing people.
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By Teresa
on 04/02/2012 15:40 11 yrs ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer and for a year was very ill. I was still taken to scouting events (couldn't keep me away!) and when having good days would do my scouting by email and telephone. The support I received helped my family and myself. I loved the messages of support received from the beavers through to leaders both from distict and county level. It helped to keep me going through all the treatment. Scouting is always there for everyone.
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By John
on 08/02/2012 19:42 Informative & heartening
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By John
on 16/02/2012 13:35 Glad to see the comments of others and pleased that the Association has been pro-active in tackling what is still sadly considered a taboo subject. Many people in Scouting will not have seen this though - is there any chance of a fuller article appearing in "Scouting" over the coming months so that they can please?
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By Matt
on 17/02/2012 14:31 Is it possible for Will to be contacted to speak at events around the country?
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By Will
on 18/02/2012 22:37 Really pleased that people now feel able to share their own experiences and how Scouting has supported them too. In response to Matt's question anyone can contact me via e.mail address disability@tiscali.co.uk regarding what he raises or other diversity/inclusion matter.
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By Lorraine
on 19/02/2012 16:11 Like Wendy I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My Cub pack probably had the best year ever because I really threw myself into Scouting. My aim was to get through chemo and stand on Brownsea Island with my Cubs and leaders....... We did it and it was worth it. I then did my radiotherapy knowing there really is an organisation who can allow you to do your best No Matter What! Let's continue the adventure, obviously there are very few obstacles that cannot be climbed by Scouters Awesome!
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