A group of cancer sufferers have published a collection of their experiences in a touching book of stories and poems.
Joined Up Writing has been compiled using works from Clan Cancer Support’s Words of Wellbeing creative writing group, which meets in Elgin throughout the year.
Launched last night in Elgin Library, the book features a number of stories which have been penned by those affected by the disease.
Tony Cardwell, whose work features in the book, said: “Since my school days my writing has consisted of letters, form filling and the occasional reference.
“Now my involvement with the group has given me the confidence to put pen to paper and express my feelings about cancer and the way it affects my life. If I can do it, anyone can.”
Tracy Sellar, Clan’s Moray area services co-ordinator, said: “The book itself is a lovely collection of poems and writings which individuals affected by cancer have written, and, in doing so, it has helped them to deal with the emotions and thoughts that they have gathered during their journey — some happy and some sad.
“The clients who have contributed to the book have shown great bravery to share their feelings, and I’m sure it will be comforting for others who have been affected by the illness to read that perhaps people are experiencing the same feelings and thoughts as they are.”
Words of Wellbeing was introduced to Clan’s Elgin service last year and aims to help people deal with their emotions and thoughts on the disease.
After finding that many benefit from writing their feelings on cancer down on paper, the group in Elgin decided to collate a collection of pieces in a book with a view to making it available to the general public.
The collection is available for £3 at Clan’s centre in Elgin and at the charity’s Thursday session at Moray Medical Practice in Lossiemouth.
Copies will also be available from the libraries in Aberlour, Buckie, Elgin, Forres, Keith and Lossiemouth.
All funds raised from the sale of the book will go towards the charity’s continued provision of free support services throughout Moray, the north east and the Highlands.