Cancer Focus gets creative in North West

Cancer Focus's creative writing workshops will take place at Agnes Jones House in the grounds of Altnagelvin Hospital from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. They will start on Wednesday 7th November and will be held every Wednesday until 5th December. The course will be facilitated by local storyteller Madeline McCully.

 Bringing the creative writing workshop to the North West is part of Cancer Focus’s wider aim to expand the charity’s care and support services across Northern Ireland, so that cancer patients can benefit from this valuable service in their own community and improve their quality of life. 

Liz Atkinson, Head of Care Services, Cancer Focus (the new name for the Ulster Cancer Foundation), said: “We know that cancer affects everyone differently. It can make people feel that they have lost control, increase feelings of isolation and can often reduce a person’s self-esteem. However research has shown that writing can have a positive impact offering possible therapeutic benefits, giving patients a voice and means of expression. 

 “Many participants find the creative process relaxing, allowing them to unwind while chatting to others who are in a similar situation. No previous experience is necessary in order to take part so come along to enjoy a relaxed workshop, facilitated by Madeline. Light refreshments will also be provided.” 

 Based in Derry, Madeline has facilitated creative writing and literacy workshops in schools, community centres, prison and hospitals and will guide participants through different ways of expressing themselves through writing.

 Madeline is a well-known writer, storyteller and artist and winner of many awards in each of these fields. Two of her plays, 'What are you waiting for now - the Creggan Story' and 'Exodus Revisited', have been performed in the city to large audiences.

 "Writing is cheaper than any drug - it is the cost of a pen and paper and is a tremendously positive boost for those undergoing any physical or personal trauma. A lot of people say that writing something lets them choose their words so it works well with people who are less able to verbalise their feelings or who are nervous about talking things out," she says.

Madeline stressed that no one is under any pressure to share what they have written and that everything within the workshop is confidential. She will also offer suggestions on ways to continue writing in the future, either for personal reflection or to share with others. 

"Writing simply gives one a sense of control over what is going on in one's life. It is more concrete than just talking and you can do it on your own, anywhere. Hopefully, after this course participants will continue to use it." 

For further information or to book your free place please ring 028 7134 5171 ext 4350, contact Toby Wheeler at Cancer Focus on 028 9068 0751 or email tobywheeler@cancerfocusni.org.

For any further information about Cancer Focus click on www.cancerfocusni.org , call 028 9068 0776 or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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For further information please contact:

Pauline Wylie, PR & Events Manager, Cancer Focus, on 028 9066 3281 / 07810 371118 or Marie Foy, PR & Events Officer, Cancer Focus, on 028 9066 3281 / 07736 358692