FCN urges farmers to nip cancer symptoms in the bud

A retired Welsh agricultural consultant who became a full-time carer after his wife’s terminal cancer diagnosis is encouraging people in farming and rural communities to seek medical help as soon as symptoms arise.

In the short film below, released during Carers Week (8-14 June), Nigel Davies, from Colwyn Bay, speaks about caring for his wife Emma, who was diagnosed with glioblastoma, the most common and aggressive form of primary brain cancer.

It forms part of the Rural Communities Cancer Project and the #NipItInTheBud campaign, a partnership between the Farming Community Network (FCN) and Macmillan Cancer Support.

See also: FCN urges farmers to get early cancer signs checked by GP

The campaign aims to improve awareness of cancer symptoms in rural areas, encourages people to seek early medical advice, and highlights the role of carers in supporting those diagnosed with cancer.

Nigel said the first sign that something was wrong appeared while he and Emma were gardening together.

“She suddenly said that she could smell something horrible,” he explained.

“It didn’t seem serious at first, but it turned out to be the first sign that something was badly wrong.”

Difficult moments

Following scans and tests in May 2023, Emma was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Telling their daughters about the diagnosis, Nigel said, was one of the most difficult moments the family faced.

“However, having shared everything with them, their time and support between Emma’s diagnosis and death was incredible. The next generation can be a great source of comfort and inspiration.”

As he balanced caring responsibilities with day-to-day life, Nigel said the experience taught him the importance of making time to listen.

“Supporting Emma through her illness was an honour,” he said.

“I learned that when Emma wanted to talk, I needed to stop everything and listen. That awareness ultimately helped me as much as it helped Emma.”

Early diagnosis essential

He hopes his experience will resonate with other carers, particularly in farming communities where work and family commitments can often take priority.

“It can be easy to put things off, especially when farming work comes first,” he said.

“But if something doesn’t feel right, it’s so important to get it checked. Early diagnosis can make a fundamental difference to the experience of everyone, close family members as well as the patient.”

Seeking support

Linda Jones, national manager for FCN Cymru, said caring for someone with cancer can be particularly challenging in rural communities, where people are often reluctant to seek support.

“Nigel’s honesty will help others feel less alone and may encourage people to seek help sooner – both for themselves and for loved ones,” she added

Further information is available on the Rural Communities Cancer Project website.