When I was told the cancer was in remission, in a way I felt alone, abandoned. I’d been in a fixed routine, I knew I had chemotherapy on such a day, my blood tests on such a day. I had my safe cocoon.

Pat got it all – the tears, the sob story. When I first met her, I didn’t know what a big role she’d play. She’s been a massive part of my recovery. I opened up to Pat because I saw how good and kind she was. She was always on the end of the phone and if she wasn’t available, she’d make sure she got back to me. She’s been the one person I could turn to.

I’d tell everyone affected by cancer to speak to their Macmillan nurse or visit a Macmillan information and support centre. The help available is excellent, there’s support for everything.