My Dear Cancerous Crew,

It’s been quite a while since I last posted, and I plan to update you on my treatment “journey” in a separate post. But for now, I’d like to discuss a subject that I find very preoccupying.

I’ve always embraced a laid-back lifestyle, valuing the sweet art of doing nothing and relishing long siestas, even amid the turmoil of “battling” cancer. However, today, I wish to address a topic that’s been heavy on my mind, and I feel compelled to share it with you.

• The Impacts of NHS Privatisation:

Access to medical care through a public health system, in my eyes, isn’t just a fundamental human right but also a marker of social and economic progress. In truly democratic societies, these rights should be safeguarded and funded by the government, rather than diverting resources to, say, military advancements. The neglect of this leads to stark inequalities and preventable distress.

The shift towards privatisation, from my perspective, means healthcare becomes a commodity for those who can afford it, neglecting those in dire need. It’s disheartening to witness people accepting the notion that there’s no alternative as if it’s an absolute truth, rather than a deliberate political and commercial choice. We must urge our government to commit to preserving and adequately funding the NHS—our lives depend on it.

• The Patient treatment by Health Professionals:

Inspired by Nanni Moretti’s “Caro Diario” and its poignant commentary on the patient-doctor relationship, I can’t help but agree with the film’s closing remark: “Doctors are good at talking, but not at listening.”

As a cancer patient, my condition doesn’t strip me of the ability to comprehend what’s happening in my life. This disease is occurring within my own body, that is myself, and I refuse to be dispossessed of my autonomy by healthcare professionals who fail to listen and communicate effectively about my condition and treatment options.

It baffles me that empathy is so hard to come by when dealing with someone enduring a significant life event such as illness and suffering—an event we will all inevitably face.

• The Challenges of Bias and Accessibility in Healthcare:

The points on gaslighting, stigmatisation, and barriers to care for specific patient groups speak volumes without further elaboration.

• Societal Views on Cancer and Narrative Framing:

I find the militant vocabulary surrounding cancer narratives unsettling. I’m not a soldier in combat against a disease; I’m a person navigating through the facets of the human condition, which includes illness, suffering and mortality. It’s not about bravery—it’s about the reality of human existence.

The tales of battle only seem to comfort the healthy, painting us as abnormal and them as untouched by the affliction of these ‘brave and terrified warriors’.

• Sounding like a nutter to most of you

With this post, I aim to encourage the formation of patient advocacy groups, foster dialogue with healthcare professionals, and initiate workshops for both patients and medical practitioners.

I wonder if any of these thoughts resonate with your experiences or concerns, or if they align with what you consider part of a potential solution. I’m eager to engage in this conversation with you all.