It’s why Orange Health Service’s rural cancer nurse co-ordinator Fran Ferguson has organised a free program to help patients, carers and family members after treatment.

The six-week program will be run three times a year and it is free to attend any, or all of the meetings.

The current cancer support and survivorship program will meet every Thursday at the hospital until November 24.

“We know people who have been through cancer, that their health is not as good as someone who hasn’t had cancer, the goal is to help people cope and understand those challenges,” Mrs Ferguson said.

“It’s open to anyone that’s got an interest in cancer but the focus is on patients, carers and family members.

“Often people diagnosed with cancer can be struggling with physical fatigue (from treatment) and part of our information is on fatigue management.

“Some people can feel guilt after being treated, and there’s a tremendous fear that cancer will return.”

Other challenges faced by patients can include problems with body image and side-effects, particularly from radiation which can lead to secondary illnesses.

“Our program is about trying to teach patients to recognise what’s worrying and what’s not, to know when to go for help and who to go to,” Mrs Ferguson said.

The program is set to be run three times a year to help assist all patients who complete cancer treatment at Orange Health Service.

Anyone interested in attending is encouraged to RSVP to Mrs Ferguson on 6369 3967.