Stories from people affected by cancer

These stories are about what really matters to people affected by cancer.

Scroll down to see the stories! You can also use the list on the left below to look for stories about particular topics.

These stories have all been created during our What Matters to You storytelling project, delivered in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support.

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  • Nina's Story: Threads of Silver and Gold

    Nina's Story: Threads of Silver and Gold

    My personal journey through 4th stage cancer diagnosis and treatment and its impact on my identity and family relationships.

  • Mary's Story: Smiling on the Inside

    Mary's Story: Smiling on the Inside

    My sister faced a brain tumour with courage, faith and humour. Now that I face cancer and Parkinson’s I am choosing both how I wish to live, encouraging others every day, and the legacy of hope I will pass on through my painting and my smile.

  • Peju's Story: My year of the Big Cs

    Peju's Story: My year of the Big Cs

    Cancer experience led me to find my purpose, combining my faith in Christ and support for others, through The Secret Place, a faith-based non-profit organisation.

  • Ita's Story: Isolated but Not Alone

    Ita's Story: Isolated but Not Alone

    My story is one of gratitude and thanks. We cannot always control the difficult situations that life throws at us but we can choose to face the difficulties with dignity and courage. I hope my story offers hope, encouragement, and support for others.

  • Desiree’s story: The Rainbow After The Storm

    Desiree’s story: The Rainbow After The Storm

    My story is about the spiritual awakening I experienced alongside my cancer journey, and the gratitude I take from life’s blessings and all those around me.

  • Jacquelyn's story: Bookmarks of Belief

    Jacquelyn's story: Bookmarks of Belief

    Cancer was only a part of my story. It was not the beginning and could not be the end, even if it had led to physical death.