Zest for Life Programme for Cancer Patients in Belfast and Ballymoney

The Ulster Cancer Foundation’s will be providing its Zest for Life programme for cancer patients inBelfastand Ballymoney thanks to the support and fundraising efforts of the staff atBelfastlaw firm, Cleaver Fulton Rankin.

Zest for Life is a six week personal development programme which is designed to meet the needs of those who are on a recovery period in their cancer journey.

Starting on Thursday 3rd May, the programme will take place inBallymoneyTown Hall,24 High Street from 10.30am to 1.00pm and will be facilitated by UCF’s locally based counsellor, Valerie Magowan.

Zest for Life will also be available in the Belfastarea from Friday 4th May in the Oak Room, Cancer Support and Information Centre,BelfastCityHospital from 10.30am to 1.00pm. This meeting will be facilitated by UCF’s locally based counsellor, Effie Cairns.

Deirdre Conlon, Care Services Manager, UCF said, “We are delighted that Cleaver Fulton Rankin has chosen to support the Ulster Cancer Foundation’s Zest for Life sessions acrossNorthern Ireland. 

“The course can help people who have experienced a cancer diagnosis to identify and implement lifestyle changes which will have a positive impact on their physical and mental health.   

“Everyone is unique and we understand that cancer affects people differently. Cancer can make some feel that they have lost control; increase feelings of isolation or reduce a person’s self-esteem.  Zest for Life aims to help people to understand and manage stress, encourage positive thinking, adopt relaxation techniques and explore complementary therapies. 

“By identifying personal values and realistic goal setting, people often regain a sense of balance and become empowered and motivated to move forward and embrace the future.

“We have carried out this programme in other venues acrossNorthern Irelandand those who took part agreed it was very enjoyable and extremely worthwhile.”

Alastair Rankin, Director, Cleaver Fulton Rankin speaking about the partnership said, “All the staff at Cleaver Fulton Rankin are very excited about supporting and raising money for Ulster Cancer Foundation’s Zest for Life programme.  As a local firm which has supportedNorthern Irelandbusiness for over 100 years, it fits perfectly with our ethos to support a local charity whose work is focused on supporting local people.  I am looking forward to a successful partnership where we can make a direct and tangible contribution to the lives of Zest for Life participants and their families.”

Cancer patient Glynis Bushe from Antrim said, "Zest for Life was an excellent therapy for me. A cancer diagnosis is devastating and life changing and although I talked frankly and openly to my family I found the safe, confidential environment of the group a great help.  I was able to discuss my fears and worries with fellow cancer sufferers who understood exactly what I was going through. 

“We were also encouraged to keep a journal to jot down our thoughts which was another outlet for those pent up feelings.  At every meeting our facilitator handed out a little story or a quotation for us to take away - just something to boost our spirits. I shared these with my son and daughter who found them very uplifting.

“Zest for Life gave me the opportunity to look at and address the imbalances in my life. It helped me deal with stress, be more positive, improve my mood, and to get back on track and to get out of this ‘in limbo’ feeling.

“The nurturing and guidance I received from the tutor was absolutely terrific, it is extremely important to have that extra support in place when your cancer treatment ends.”

These programmes are entirely confidential and take place in a safe and caring environment. Materials will be provided for participants and like all UCF services, the programme is free of charge.

For further information or to book your place please contact Toby Wheeler on 028 9066 3281/ 028 9068 0751 or e-mail tobywheeler@ulstercancer.org. UCF would encourage anyone interested in taking part to pre-book as there are a limited number of places available.