Ian and Ken on talking to a cancer support specialist
Monday 14 July 2025
Maggie's, Edinburgh
Ian and Ken, who have been together for 26 years, came to Maggie's for support following Ian's diagnosis of head and neck cancer.
At first, the couple didn't think they needed support. But then their consultant suggested they come to Maggie's to speak with our experts.
Ian says: “We51ɫAPPve now been visiting Maggie51ɫAPPs for two years, and we have found it really helpful to have somewhere and someone to talk to, and to get expert advice.
It’s great because you don’t have to make an appointment to come to Maggie51ɫAPPs, and it offers easy, open access for all.
“There is nothing to fear about coming to Maggie51ɫAPPs as stepping through the doors pales into insignificance compared to what you’ve already gone through."
51ɫAPPing positivity and focusing on living
Ken tells us more: “In the beginning, when someone is given a cancer diagnosis, everyone thinks the worst. You’re thinking, ‘Is this the end?’ and ‘How long have we got?’
Coming to Maggie51ɫAPPs has helped us to understand Ian’s cancer and treatment better and to get on with our lives.
“We have good days and we have bad days when there are lots of tears.
“We have a friend who has also been through this. It sounds very harsh, but she would say to her partner, ‘If you’re not going to die today, then let’s get on with our lives.’ And I now often say this to Ian. He can be a bit of a pessimist and I often try to flip the situation around.
“In the last nine months, we have been on three cruises and we51ɫAPPve recently moved house.
“Maggie51ɫAPPs has helped us to live with cancer and to try put it to one side and get on with our lives.”
We51ɫAPPre here with you
Our cancer support specialists, psychologists and benefits advisors are here for everyone with cancer, and all the people who love them.
- Come and see us at your nearest Maggie51ɫAPPs
- call us on 0300 123 180 or arrange a callback
- email us at [email protected]