As a Macmillan clinical nurse specialist who specialises in bladder cancer, your article with Tracey Emin really resonated with me. I support people affected by bladder cancer on a daily basis. In fact, a patient brought the article to my attention, as they said they found it extremely helpful to see a person in the public eye speak so openly about their experience.
I thought it was commendable to see Tracey use her platform to raise awareness of the ways cancer can affect someone. She made a very good point that there is often a lack of understanding around hidden disabilities. It’s an unfortunate and undeniable truth that most of us have been affected by cancer in some way, and one in two of us will be diagnosed with the disease. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed, waiting for results, having treatment or you’re struggling with side-effects, I want Londoners to know — Macmillan professionals are there for you.
Ana Peterkin, Macmillan bladder cancer clinical nurse specialist
Editor’s reply
Dear Ana
It’s great to hear that Tracey Emin’s interview struck such a chord with you. She has spoken about her illness and gradual recovery with an honesty and candour that has shown exactly how courageous she is. Hopefully her raw account will make others feel less afraid of their diagnosis. It is also an important reminder that even though we may be more cautious about visiting hospitals and GPs as a result of the pandemic, early diagnosis in cancer treatment is crucial.
Emma Loffhagen, Comment Writer
Scotland wants different rules
Police in Glasgow stopped an Immigration Service removal operation for safety reasons after a large crowd gathered to protect the targeted persons. UK Home Office has neatly proved that society in Scotland would prefer to make its own rules about immigration and asylum.
Tim Cox
