Getting the support you need

The role of support groups

Meeting other people in a similar situation can be reassuring. It can powerfully demonstrate that those living with ovarian cancer can respond to treatment and go on to lead fulfilling lives.

Support groups are a place where you can share knowledge and experience which can be very comforting. You can find out more about Ovacome's support groups and local support groups below.

Who runs the groups?

You may have an ovarian cancer support group near you.  It may be organised and run by a local cancer nurse specialist (CNS) and largely hospital based.  Other groups are started by people with ovarian cancer and do not have formal input from health professionals.  They might be at someone’s home, in a community space or online.

You may have a cancer support centre near you, such as a Maggie’s Centre.  Maggie’s offers support groups, complementary therapies advice and information for anyone affected, which includes friends and family. 

Choosing the group

Support groups take many forms.  Some are very general and open to people diagnosed with different cancer types.  Others are more specialised and focus on specific groups such as people with gynaecological cancers.  You may be looking for a group focussed on ovarian cancer.

Since the covid pandemic most support groups have been meeting online, it seems likely that some will continue with this.

Online meetings can be for people across the country and even across the world.  This can work well for people with rarer forms of ovarian cancer who seldom meet other people with the same diagnosis.

Meeting online can also mean being able to take part in your own home, without having to travel, even if you are unwell.

But on the other hand, you may need to be confident in using technology and need equipment and some training. It can be harder to get to know people without meeting them in person.

What are the pros and cons?

Support groups can give you confidence, shared knowledge and experience.  This can help you learn to manage your cancer, communicate with health professionals, and get the best out of your treatments. 

Joining a support group can make the negative experience of an ovarian cancer diagnosis into a more positive one.  It can reduce feelings of isolation and give you the experience of belonging in a safe space.

Ovacome members tell us that the benefit they value most is being able to talk openly about their cancer with others who share the experience.

However, as well as getting support yourself, there may be an expectation of giving it to others as well.  Also, while you will meet people who are coping well and maintaining good health, you will at some point meet those who are not.  It can be difficult and disheartening to see people experience recurrences and further treatment.

Tips for attending a support group

• You can find out more before you go along by contacting the organiser who can tell you about the size of the group and the format of meetings – for instance whether they have speakers or whether members are invited to talk about their experiences.
• If you feel nervous about attending, ask if you can bring a friend or family member to support you. Let the organiser know if you prefer not to speak.

Did you find this page helpful?

We welcome your feedback. If you have any comments or suggestions, please email r.grigg@ovacome.org.uk or call 0207 299 6653.