100 Miles for Cancer Research UK

One in two people in the UK will get cancer in their lifetime according to research.  At Bluebird Care Wakefield and Kirklees, we pride ourselves on the quality of care we provide for customers and their families that have a diagnosis of cancer, supporting them to stay within the comforts of their own home.  We work closely with our local hospices; Prince of Wales hospice, Wakefield, and the amazing Macmillan nurses to ensure that customers can stay in their own home for as long as possible.

More recently I have realised, through personal experiences of loved ones going through a cancer diagnosis, how important the care industry is in supporting people to navigate their way around the services and remain independent and in control of their medical support.  A diagnosis of cancer sets off an emotional roller coaster for so many people, and at Bluebird Care we strive to ensure our staff are knowledgeable and have been trained to understand the array of emotions that take place from overwhelm, to denial and anger. Listening to what is said and what is not said is also so important and, as we get to know our customers, we begin to understand what they want. Our care and support is responsive to this. 

What amazed me personally has been the inspiring ways in which my own friends have been with how they told their story. The words of Dame Deborah James – the amazing campaigner who sadly died last week – is inspiring for us all:

Therefore, for the month of June I took on the challenge to not count my steps but ensure I walked 100 miles, and raised money for much needed cancer research. I have to say this was not easy, but I persevered, even on days when the rain would not stop. I am proud to have raised just over £300 for such a good cause.

#cancerresearch

- Narinder Gill, Director of Bluebird Care Wakefield & Kirklees