Cancer man thanks Treetops hospice for care and support

Lawrence Dormer 63 was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer during the first national lockdown in April.

He said: I had a bad bladder infection. I ended up being referred to hospital and after several investigations, a CT scan and endoscopy, they discovered a shadow on my pancreas. I had major surgery called a Whipple operation at the Queen’s Medical Centre.”

Lawrence’s treatment has not been plain-sailing with a subsequent life-threatening operation delaying chemotherapy until now.

He said: “I have to be very careful now as my immune system is zilch.

"We’ve not been able to see our two daughters and grandchildren except from the pavement. I don’t go into shops or near crowds, and I haven’t got much energy.”

Treetops Hospice Care, based in Risley, provides nursing care and emotional support for adults with life-limiting conditions, those who’ve been bereaved and their families.

Lawrence and his wife Gaynor, 58, who live in Derby, started attending the weekly Treetops Wellbeing Café and also took part in a pilot of a new programme which will launch this year.

He said: “Treetops have been superb. They have really helped with our wellbeing and my anxiety, especially with C ovid around.

“I can get panicky when we’re near lots of people. It was wonderful to simply sit in the cafe and have a chin wag. It helps you wind down and it’s a relief and comforting. You can tell the staff anything.

“Afterwards, I feel more relaxed, I can think better and have less anxiety. I just feel happier. It’s like your worries have gone away.

“Gaynor has seen a big difference in me. The basic thing I’ve done since being diagnosed is being positive. That’s the best thing I could tell anyone. Be positive, try not to let things get you down or let things upset you.”

“I’ve seen other people give up, but I want to be there for our fortieth wedding anniversary and see my grandchildren grow up."

Gaynor,who works at a school, said: “We try to stay upbeat and as positive as possible.”