A new DVD by CanTeen Ireland who provide support to teenagers with cancer across the country has just been launched.
The DVD, entitled The Big C Ain’t Gonna Stop Me!, features CanTeen members from across Ireland who have or are currently going through cancer treatment.
CanTeen is a nationwide support group for young people who have or have had cancer. The group also offers support for their brothers, sisters and friends.
The film includes interviews, chat and stories by members of the group who tell all about their own personal experiences and fights against cancer.
The one consistent message portrayed by the DVD is the bravery and determination of its people and also the consistent and unwavering support of CanTeen.
Speaking this week, 24-year-old Lisa Kennedy from Kilkenny explained how CanTeen became a lifeline for her when she was diagnosed with a bone tumour in her leg in 2007.
She now has the all clear, but as a result of the cancer she is now an amputee.
“CanTeen were always there whenever I needed them. They are absolutely brilliant and have been so encouraging and supportive,” she said.
Lisa (right) pictured out with friends for a CanTeen event.
“I was diagnosed in 2007 and a friend of mine in hospital told me about CanTeen in 2008 and I’ve been with them ever since. For the DVD I talk all about my own experiences – though I am a bit camera shy!” she laughed.
“It shows us doing lots of activities. Last week for example, we were up in Fermanagh and they talked me into doing rock climbing! You can imagine how difficult that would be to do with only one leg – but they encouraged and supported me along and I ended up climbing over halfway up! I was delighted!”
“This DVD is to show teenagers and other young people that there is support there. There are people who know what you are going through and who can understand and help you. It also will help any new members of CanTeen to get an opportunity to see what we do. It’s for twelve to 25 year olds and I’m turning 25 in March so I’m going to be leaving then,” she continued.
“I will leave for a year and then return when I’m 26 as a leader, though it’s going to be a very long year!
“CanTeen are like my family. It’s like a home away from home. I highly recommend them.”
Indeed, the DVD is a guide to teenage cancer patients and aims to show how the right support can make a world of difference to a teenager who might be feeling upset and alone. CanTeen currently has more than 260 members and arranges a variety of weekends away throughout the year.
As well as launching its DVD at the Mansion House on Saturday, CanTeen Ireland will host its annual winter ball on Saturday, 8th November this year in the Crown Plaza in Santry. Comedian Steve Cummins, a veteran of The Laughter Lounge in Dublin, will host the ball, which will be attended by CanTeen members and their family, and friends of the charity. Dr Charles Gillham of St Luke’s Hospital will speak on the night, alongside CanTeen members.
To donate to CanTeen, text CanTeen to 50300 and for further information, visit their website or Facebook page.
