Cancer group seeks to support those in need

A SMILE, helping hand or phone call can go a long way in uplifting someone fighting a battle with cancer, a caregiver or a family in need.

This is the sentiment of Wentworth Cancer Support Group member, Natasha Biggar who calls on anyone in need of support along their cancer journey to join the group.

She shared her personal journey of being her husband’s main support system when he was diagnosed with myofibroblastic sarcoma in 2018, which is an uncommon tumour that mainly develops in the bone or soft tissue and is most often reported in the head and neck, particularly in the tongue and oral cavity.

“It started as a little bump in the mouth and I didn’t take much notice of it in the beginning until it grew into a full mass tumour. He had to go on a liquid diet as well as undergo chemotherapy and radiation sessions. After all the sessions we were told that he was cancer free. We kept up our appointments and needless to say we were ecstatic. We have young children, the prospect of him seeing them grow up as well as our daughter get married was a big deal for us as parents.

“However, it was not long until I noticed a growth in his ear. This signalled the start of a very slow and painful procedure because we weren’t supported since we were not aware of any support groups. From a medical care point, we also dealt with a lot of incompetence from healthcare workers. Nonetheless, we kept pushing through the difficult days. The cancer had progressed into his sinus passageway into his ear forming another tumour. But doctors didn’t confirm this until he had about six weeks left to live.”

Natasha explained that her husband continued with chemotherapy weekly but only when his body and blood pressure could take it.

“That was a difficult period but my hope was still eternal. I believed that there was still a chance at life for him after the session. Unfortunately, his organs began to shut down and he slipped into a semi-coma stage but I still refused to believe the inevitable,” she said.

After the six weeks mark, one of the doctors sat her down and informed her that her husband was in full organ failure and that there was nothing more than they could do for him. The family said their goodbyes and he passed on March 2020.

He is survived by Natasha and their four children, aged 17, 16, 10 and four, who remember him with much love and compassion.

“I wish that I had the people that I know now back then, but I didn’t. I was alone. My husband was such a good man. His legacy of love and care now lives on in me and I have passed it down to my children and every other person I meet. To inspire others to help where they can and love as much as they can.

“If anyone knows of someone who needs love and support on their cancer journeys in the areas of Merebank, Wentworth or Bluff encourages them to attend our meetings because that is where we help and uplift one another in whatever way we can. We are a group of people who understand what they are going through. We come together to support each other and encourage others to seek support. We meet once a month but encourage members to make contact at any time should they need assistance,” said Natasha.

To get in touch with the group, call 069 120 4970.