Young people sail into a new adventure after cancer

Four young people who received treatment for their cancer at Musgrove Park Hospital have gone on a sailing trip organised by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. From 14 -17 July, four boats travelled from East Cowes on the Isle of Wight to Yarmouth over on the west side of the island (and back) - they even had a fast paced experience on a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) too!

The charity shares that ‘for many young people, picking up from where they left off before cancer is not possible. When treatment ends our work begins. We inspire young people aged 8-24 to believe in a brighter future through free sailing and outdoor adventures.’

All are in remission after treatment for cancer, such as lymphoma – a cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, which is a part of the body's immune system.

Rhys Carr, pictured centre, says: “Since finishing my treatment it’s taken a lot to get to where I am now, not just physically but mentally. There is still a long way to go but you can’t do it alone, which is why this trip has been a big help.

"I went on the trip thinking I wasn’t going to have a good time, that it was just going to be a place where people talk about what they’ve been through and it be a bit depressing, but it’s completely different because we’d all been through the same thing we had a connection already and you just laugh and joke and get to know new people who understand everything you’ve been through. It’s probably one of the best things that you could do when treatment has finished. It’s something new to try, and you meet so many amazing people who you can connect with.”

Francesca Egerton-Bland, pictured left, told us: “It was so nice to be around people who have been through the same experiences as me, and to spend time away from the stresses of everyday life and enjoy such a unique, once in a lifetime trip! I think my cancer journey made me realise what is really important in my life, and now I prioritise spending time with family and friends, seeing new places, experiencing new things, making time for my passions, and saying yes more!”

Katie Berry, pictured second in from the left, adds: “The Ellen MacArthur cancer trip encouraged me to form friendships and connections with others who shared similar experiences. Learning to sail and adventuring around the Isle of Wight was a valuable experience and I’m grateful to have embraced the opportunity! As well as forming long term memories, the trip provided a comfortable and safe environment which encouraged open conversations and a sense of understanding.”

Ruth Coles, our teenage and young adult clinical nurse specialist with the teenage cancer trust, who supported the young people through their treatment at Musgrove, add she felt so proud when waving them off on their adventure. "Each of them having been through a cancer treatment journey and now having the courage to go off on this experience on their own," she says. "It’s an amazing chance to be with other people who had shared similar cancer journey experiences.

"The girls had met each other just once, on our teenage and young adult peer support meals out, which we hold locally every couple of months, and so had the boys. When I met them on their return - they were full of it. They had all had a great time and were planning to take up the offer of a return to sail trip next year, probably with the people they had met this year.”

She also advises that cancer in young people is rare, but if there’s anything you’re worried about, you should always see your GP as soon as you can and get it checked out. If you have new lumps and bumps, or feel increasing tired with or without a cough, it’s important to see your GP. The teenage cancer trust has more advice on symptoms you can read.

Ruth also runs parent support groups every three months with support from the HOPE counselling team – giving parents of young people a chance to talk to other parents in the same position in a safe space away from their children.

Ruth adds: “I am naturally drawn to support the whole family and felt there was a need for parents of young adults, especially those who are between the gap of paediatric care and adult cancer care. During the evening, it is incredibly powerful to hear their stories. We are there not to lead the group but facilitate a chance for parents to meet other parents in the same boat and to help give an insider’s perspective – we know how tricky it is to coordinate care behind the scenes and understand what is happening in order to get a diagnosis for their children. The parents have found these evenings helpful and we plan to keep it going.”

Find out more about the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust