Group plea for support

An expat breast cancer support group, struck by the sudden departure of its lone counsellor, is urgently looking for medical professionals who can fill the vacant position.

Until recently, Adrienne Buck, a specialist breast care nurse from New Zealand, was providing advice to breast cancer survivors on the island. However, she left for a fresh start in Australia with her husband Geoff and children James and Jessica yesterday.

The Bahrain Breast Cancer Support Group was formed in 2008 and has helped more than 60 women and their families during the different stages of cancer treatment.

Speaking on the eve of her departure, Adrienne said: “To me a support group is a big part of cancer treatment. Our task is to be an advocate or simply to offer support.

“At every stage of treatment we provide information on what may occur – surgery, side-effects and general information. Sometimes there are doubts on the treatment and we can advocate on the doctor’s behalf.

“Even a person who undergoes lumpectomy (a surgical procedure to remove a discrete lump) requires support as they undergo radiation treatment and medication.

“Just the knowledge that you have cancer is overwhelming and there are several questions arising from there, including whether the disease has progressed from Stage 1 to Stage 2 and if it can reoccur.”

The support group has gained popularity mainly through word-of-mouth. Joanna Lund, a cancer survivor from Saar, said: “When I arrived in Bahrain three years ago, I had just finished my breast cancer treatment in New Zealand. Away from my network of doctors and friends, I felt isolated and in need of support. This feeling didn’t last for long after discovering the Bahrain Breast Cancer Support Group.

“Through the meetings I have met many inspirational ladies, made some wonderful friends and have had Adrienne’s support throughout.
 
“We’ve had many interesting guest speakers at our meetings, ranging from image consultants to osteopaths to hairdressers. I am so grateful to Adrienne for her efforts and support - she is a real gem and I’m going to miss her.”

Adrienne believes the position is ideal for a medical professional as women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have a range of physical, mental and emotional issues to deal with.
 
In many cases counselling can also help the sufferers’ partners, who often find the experience stressful and frightening.

Adrienne said: “Even the men need a lot of support because they are expected to be ‘the rock’. If it is a household with children it affects them even more. Overall, cancer diagnosis is a big shock for the whole family to take in.”

Individual counselling sessions could take place over a coffee, at home or even over the telephone. The group also holds monthly meetings at a sponsored room at the Diplomatic Radisson Blu Hotel.

Professionals who are willing to step into Adrienne’s shoes to help the Bahrain Breast Cancer Support Group can email adriennebuck@msn.com