Janette’s story
Janette first became aware of Big C in June 2022, when her husband, Alan, was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour and received the difficult news that he would have six months left to live.
They were completely devastated and didn’t know where to turn. A colleague at Janette’s work mentioned Big C and she called for advice. Janette said, “It was the best thing I ever did and from that very first call we felt supported.”
Alan and Janette had weekly telephone check-ins, offering a space to talk openly about how they were coping, what support was available and what might help.
Janette told us, “I felt I could ask anything without feeling silly, and I always felt supported.”
Alan sadly died in December 2022 and Janette was heartbroken, but Big C continued to support her. “I received counselling through Big C, and it was my safe place to cry, feel comforted and understood.
“I learnt about Big C exercise classes and started Seated Movement, where I met others who had been affected by cancer. It gave me an opportunity to relax with a friendly weekly check-in, and I always left feeling calm and ready to face the day ahead.”
At the end of 2025, Janette felt ready to stop her support sessions, although knowing that she could reach out if she was having a difficult time was a reassuring thought.
Janette continues with the Seated Movement class and has added yoga and Tai Chi. She also attends soundbath sessions virtually, which she finds particularly relaxing.
Janette explains that “everybody is so friendly and after each session we have a little chat, and I feel I’ve got a few good virtual friends.”
Reflecting on the support she received from Big C, she said “I don’t think I could have survived without Big C and will be forever grateful for their ongoing support.”
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